Save This pickle-fix smash burger taco recipe transforms classic burgers into a handheld taco experience with all the flavors you love. The combination of juicy beef patties, tangy pickle slaw, and creamy burger sauce creates an irresistible fusion dish that delivers big flavor in every bite.
I created these tacos during a rainy weekend when we were craving both burgers and tacos but didn't want to choose. The pickle-forward flavor profile was an instant hit with my family, and now it's our go-to for casual entertaining.
Ingredients
- For the Smash Burger Patties: Ground beef 80/20 blend offers perfect fat content for juicy smashed patties with crispy edges
- Ground beef 80/20 blend: offers perfect fat content for juicy smashed patties with crispy edges
- Kosher salt: enhances the natural beef flavor and helps create a beautiful crust
- Ground black pepper: adds classic burger seasoning that complements the beef
- For the Dill Slaw: Finely shredded green cabbage provides essential crunch and freshness
- Finely shredded green cabbage: provides essential crunch and freshness
- Dill pickles: bring tangy brightness and are the star flavor component
- Fresh dill: amplifies the pickle flavor with herbal notes
- Mayonnaise: creates a creamy base that coats the vegetables perfectly
- Apple cider vinegar: adds necessary acidity to balance the richness
- Sugar: helps tame the acidity and brings slight sweetness
- For the Burger Sauce: Mayonnaise creates a rich and creamy base
- Mayonnaise: creates a rich and creamy base
- Ketchup: adds sweetness and tomato flavor
- Yellow mustard: provides classic burger tang
- Dill pickle juice: intensifies the pickle theme throughout
- Hot sauce: optional but recommended for subtle heat
- Smoked paprika: adds depth and slight smokiness
- For the Tacos: Small flour tortillas soft and pliable to fold around fillings
- Small flour tortillas: soft and pliable to fold around fillings
- Shredded cheddar cheese: melts beautifully over hot beef patties
- Red onion: adds sharp contrast and fresh bite
- Extra pickle slices: for garnish reinforce the pickle theme
Instructions
- Prepare the Dill Slaw:
- Combine all slaw ingredients in a mixing bowl and toss thoroughly until every shred of cabbage is coated with the creamy dressing. The vinegar will begin to slightly soften the cabbage while it chills, creating the perfect texture. Make this first so flavors have time to meld.
- Make the Burger Sauce:
- Whisk all sauce ingredients together until completely smooth and uniform. The pickle juice is crucial here as it thins the sauce to the perfect consistency while adding incredible flavor. Taste and adjust seasonings if needed. This sauce should be tangy, slightly sweet, and have a hint of smoke.
- Shape the Beef:
- Divide your ground beef into eight equal portions and gently roll into balls. Avoid overworking the meat as this will make your patties tough. Season each ball generously on all sides with salt and pepper just before cooking.
- Cook the Smash Burgers:
- Heat your cast iron until it's smoking hot. Place beef balls on the surface and immediately smash down firmly with a spatula, pressing until very thin about 14 inch thick. Let cook undisturbed until a deep brown crust forms on the bottom. Flip quickly, add cheese, and cook just until cheese melts. The entire cooking process should take only 2-3 minutes per batch.
- Warm the Tortillas:
- Quickly warm tortillas in the same skillet after wiping away excess beef fat. Heat just until pliable and slightly blistered, about 10 seconds per side. Keep warm wrapped in a clean kitchen towel.
- Assemble the Tacos:
- Start with a smear of burger sauce on each warm tortilla. Place a cheesy patty on top, followed by a generous portion of the chilled pickle slaw. Add red onion slices and extra pickle slices if desired. The contrast between the hot beef and cool slaw creates magic in every bite.
Save My absolute favorite part of this recipe is the dill pickle slaw. I discovered that adding a splash of the pickle brine to both the slaw and the sauce creates an incredible depth of flavor that makes these tacos truly special. My husband now requests this slaw as a side dish for regular burgers and sandwiches too.
Perfect Pairings
These pickle-fix tacos pair beautifully with several complementary sides and beverages. Traditional french fries are an obvious choice, but try sweet potato fries with a sprinkle of smoked paprika for something special. For drinks, a cold lager or pilsner cuts through the richness perfectly. If you prefer non-alcoholic options, a sparkling lemonade with fresh dill sprigs makes a refreshing companion.
Storage and Reheating
While these tacos are best enjoyed fresh, you can store components separately if needed. The burger sauce and slaw will keep in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The cooked patties can be refrigerated for 2 days and gently reheated in a skillet over medium heat. Avoid microwaving the patties as they tend to toughen. Always warm tortillas just before serving for the best texture and experience.
Ingredient Substitutions
Ground turkey can replace beef for a lighter option, though add 1 tablespoon of olive oil to compensate for less fat. Greek yogurt can substitute for mayonnaise in both the slaw and sauce for a tangier, lighter version. Corn tortillas work well for a gluten-free alternative, just be sure to double-layer them for durability. Pickle relish can replace chopped pickles in a pinch, though drain excess liquid first. Any melting cheese works well, with pepper jack adding a nice spicy element.
Seasonal Adaptations
Summer version Add sliced heirloom tomatoes and grilled corn kernels to the tacos. Fall adaptation Incorporate thinly sliced apple into the slaw for sweetness and extra crunch. Winter variation Add caramelized onions to the beef while cooking for added depth and sweetness.
Save The key to perfect smash burgers is cooking on an extremely hot surface and pressing immediately upon contact. Wait even 30 seconds, and you'll lose the opportunity for maximum crust development.