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

Ingredients
7 items — tap to check off
Missing one? Custrd suggests a swap that works.
Open the appInstructions
Step 1
Heat a 10-inch cast iron skillet over high heat until surface is smoking hot, ~2 minutes.
Step 2
Form beef into two tight patties. Place in skillet without moving for 90 seconds.
Step 3
Smash patties flat with a sturdy spatula, pressing hard for 10 seconds. Leave flat.
Step 4
Cook without moving for 90 seconds until bottom is dark brown and crispy.
Step 5
Flip carefully and cook the other side for 60 seconds until set.
Step 6
Sprinkle salt and pepper over beef. Break into bite-sized pieces with spatula.
Step 7
Divide beef between two piles. Top each pile with cheese and cook 30 seconds until melty.
Step 8
Warm tortillas in the skillet by laying them directly on the remaining oil, 15 seconds per side.
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
Cook smarter
Get matched recipes for what’s in your fridge
Custrd is an iPhone and Android app that finds real recipes from the ingredients you already have. No more grocery-list aspirations. Try it free for 7 days.



