Ground beef: 500g (1.1 lb) – for the smash burger patties.
Salt and pepper: To taste – for seasoning the beef.
For the Special Sauce:
Mayonnaise: 1/2 cup – the creamy base of the sauce.
Yellow mustard: 1 tablespoon – adds tanginess.
Ketchup: 2 tablespoons – for sweetness and color.
Relish: 2 tablespoons – for a pickle flavor.
Vinegar: 1 teaspoon – adds a slight tang.
Garlic powder: 1/2 teaspoon – for flavor.
Onion powder: 1/2 teaspoon – for flavor.
Paprika: 1/4 teaspoon – for color and a mild spice.
For Assembly:
Soft taco shells: 8-10 – serves as the taco base.
Shredded lettuce: 1 cup – for crunch and freshness.
Cheddar cheese: 1 cup, shredded – for melty goodness.
Pickles: Sliced – for acidity and crunch.
Diced onions: Optional – for added flavor and texture.
Instructions
Prepare the Special Sauce:
In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, yellow mustard, ketchup, relish, vinegar, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika until well combined. Set aside.
Cook the Beef:
Preheat a griddle or large skillet over medium-high heat. Divide the ground beef into small balls (about 2 tablespoons each).
Place the beef balls on the griddle and smash them flat with a spatula. Season with salt and pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the edges are crispy, then flip and cook for another 1-2 minutes. Place a generous amount of shredded cheddar cheese on each patty and let it melt.
Warm the Taco Shells:
Warm the soft taco shells according to the package instructions to make them pliable.
Assemble the Tacos:
Spread some special sauce on each taco shell. Add a layer of shredded lettuce, then place a cheese-topped beef patty on each. Add sliced pickles and diced onions if desired.
Serve:
Fold the tacos and serve immediately, with extra special sauce on the side for dipping.
