If you love a good smash burger… this version might be even better.

These In-N-Out style smash burger tacos are crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, loaded with melty cheese, fresh lettuce, and that creamy burger sauce — all in one bite.

They’re quick, fun, and honestly one of those recipes you’ll crave again the next day.

Scroll down to the recipe card for full ingredients + instructions 🤍

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Crispy + juicy texture in every bite
• Easy to make in under 30 minutes
• Packed with flavor
• Kid and family approved
• Perfect for weeknight dinners

What You’ll Need

Everything is simple but comes together perfectly:

For the Tacos

• Ground beef (80/20 works best)
• Mini tortillas
• Cheddar cheese
• Chopped lettuce
• Salt

In-N-Out Style Sauce

• Mayonnaise
• Ketchup
• Dijon mustard
• Worcestershire sauce
• Vinegar
• Sweet relish
• Caramelized onions
• Salt, pepper, garlic powder

How to Make Smash Burger Tacos

1. Make the Sauce

Mix everything together and let it sit in the fridge so the flavors come together.

2. Press the Beef

Add a small amount of ground beef directly onto each tortilla and press it thin.

3. Cook Meat-Side Down

Place the tortilla meat-side down in a hot pan so the beef gets that crispy smash burger sear.

4. Flip + Crisp

Flip and cook the tortilla side until golden and slightly crispy.

5. Assemble

Add cheese, lettuce, caramelized onions, and drizzle with sauce.

Tips for the Best Smash Burger Tacos

• Press the beef thin for that classic smash texture
• Cook meat-side down first — this is key
• Use medium-low heat so the tortilla doesn’t burn
• Let the sauce sit before using for better flavor

In-N-Out Style Smash Burger Tacos

5 from 1 vote

These In-N-Out Style Smash Burger Tacos combine juicy smashed beef, melty cheddar cheese, crisp lettuce, and a creamy burger sauce — all packed into a crispy tortilla. They’re quick, flavorful, and perfect for an easy dinner or fun twist on taco night.

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Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 15 minutes mins

Total Time 30 minutes mins

Servings: 10 tacos

Course: dinner, Main Course

Cuisine: American

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Tacos

• 1 lb ground beef 80/20
• 8-10 taco shells or tortillas
• 10 slices cheddar cheese
• 1 cup chopped lettuce
• Salt to taste

In-N-Out Style Sauce

• 1 cup mayonnaise
• 4 tablespoons ketchup
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon vinegar
• 3 tablespoons sweet relish
• 3 tablespoons caramelized onions
• Salt to taste
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

Method

 

1. In a bowl, combine mayonnaise, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, caramelized onions, sweet relish, vinegar, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. Mix well and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
2. Heat a skillet over high heat with a small amount of oil.
3. Place 2–3 tablespoons of ground beef in the center of each tortilla and press down gently to create an even layer. Sprinkle with salt.
4. Place the tortilla meat-side down into the skillet and cook over medium-low heat for 4–5 minutes or until cooked through. Flip and cook the other side until crispy and golden.
5. Top each taco with a slice of cheddar cheese, chopped lettuce, and caramelized onions.
6. Drizzle with the In-N-Out style sauce and serve immediately.

Notes

• Press the beef thin for that classic smash burger texture
• Cooking meat-side down first gives the best sear
• You can use flour or corn tortillas depending on preference
• Add pickles if you want a more authentic In-N-Out flavor

Optional Add-Ons

If you want to take these even further:

• Pickles
• Extra caramelized onions
• Tomato slices
• Jalapeños for heat

Storage

• Best eaten fresh
• Store leftovers in the fridge up to 2 days
• Reheat in a pan to keep them crispy

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use different cheese?
Yes — American cheese melts best, but cheddar works great too.

Can I make these ahead of time?
You can prep the sauce ahead, but cook tacos fresh for best texture.

What tortillas work best?
Small flour tortillas give the best crisp and flexibility.