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Smash Tacos with Crispy Beef

Ground beef smashed flat in a hot skillet until edges char and crisp, then layered into warm tortillas with melted cheese and fresh toppings. Restaurant-quality texture in under 20 minutes.

Total time
20 min
Servings
2
Calories
520
Protein
32g
Smash Tacos with Crispy Beef
satisfyingquickmexicanbeefcrispytenderMain courseweeknight

Ingredients

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Instructions

  1. Step 1

    Heat a 10-inch cast iron skillet over high heat until surface is smoking hot, ~2 minutes.

  2. Step 2

    Form beef into two tight patties. Place in skillet without moving for 90 seconds.

  3. Step 3

    Smash patties flat with a sturdy spatula, pressing hard for 10 seconds. Leave flat.

  4. Step 4

    Cook without moving for 90 seconds until bottom is dark brown and crispy.

  5. Step 5

    Flip carefully and cook the other side for 60 seconds until set.

  6. Step 6

    Sprinkle salt and pepper over beef. Break into bite-sized pieces with spatula.

  7. Step 7

    Divide beef between two piles. Top each pile with cheese and cook 30 seconds until melty.

  8. Step 8

    Warm tortillas in the skillet by laying them directly on the remaining oil, 15 seconds per side.

  9. Step 9

    Transfer beef and cheese to tortillas. Top with onion, cilantro, and a squeeze of lime.

Tools you’ll need

  • 10-inch cast iron skillet or heavy stainless steel pan
  • sturdy metal spatula
  • knife and cutting board
  • box grater or microplane

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