Street Corn Smash Burger Tacos are the ultimate summer treat you never knew you needed. Imagine biting into a perfectly charred burger nestled inside a warm, soft tortilla, bursting with fresh corn goodness and topped with a zesty sauce. The flavors dance on your taste buds like it’s a fiesta in your mouth!
This dish isn’t just for summer BBQs; it will elevate your weeknight dinners and impress all your friends at the next gathering. Don’t be surprised if everyone asks you for the recipe because Street Corn Smash Burger Tacos are about to become the star of your kitchen.
Why You'll Love This Street Corn Smash Burger Tacos
- This amazing Street Corn Smash Burger Tacos offers more than just flavor; it makes meal prep a breeze.
- You can easily customize the ingredients based on what you have on hand.
- The vibrant colors and aromas make it visually stunning on any dinner table.
- Perfect for grilling but versatile enough for baking or pan-searing.
Ingredients for Street Corn Smash Burger Tacos
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Street Corn Smash Burger Tacos:
1.5 lbs ground hamburger 80/20 – This blend offers the perfect balance of flavor and juiciness for your smash burgers.
6 flour taco-sized tortillas – Choose soft, pliable tortillas that can hold all your delicious fillings without falling apart.
Salt and pepper to taste – Essential for enhancing the flavor of your burger patties.
3/4 cup cilantro leaves, large stems removed – Fresh cilantro adds a bright, herbaceous note; remove the large stems for a smoother texture.
1/2 cup pickled jalapeños – These will give your sauce a tangy kick; feel free to adjust based on your spice preference.
2 tablespoons juice from pickled jalapeños – This adds extra flavor to your creamy sauce.
3/4 cup mayonnaise – Adds creaminess and richness to the sauce.
3/4 cup sour cream – This will mellow out the spice and provide a velvety texture.
1 heaping tablespoon dry ranch seasoning – Elevates the flavor with a herby dimension.
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder – An essential flavor booster for your creamy sauce.
1/2 teaspoon salt – Enhances the overall flavor, balancing the richness of the mayo and sour cream.
1 tablespoon lime juice, fresh – Fresh lime juice brightens up the dish and adds a zesty freshness.
1/4 cup buttermilk (optional) – Helps to thin the sauce to your desired consistency, if needed.
5-6 ears of corn, husked and removed from the cob – Fresh corn is the star of this dish, providing sweetness and texture.
1/3 cup mayonnaise – For the corn topping, adds creaminess and binds all flavors together.
1 garlic clove, minced – Freshly minced garlic brings a punch of flavor to the corn topping.
1 lime, juiced and zested – Adds both tang and fragrance to the dish.
1/3 cup sliced scallions – For crunch and a mild onion flavor.
1/3 cup grated cojita cheese – This salty cheese adds creaminess to each bite, with a rich and crumbly texture.
1/4 cup cilantro, minced, large stems removed – Brightens the corn topping and adds freshness.
1 jalapeño, diced – Adds additional heat and flavor; adjust according to your spice threshold.
1/2-1 tsp chili powder – Provides warmth and depth; adjust to your preference.
1/2-1 tsp Tajin – Enhances flavor with a combination of chili, lime, and salt.
1/4 tsp salt – To season your corn topping.
2 tablespoons olive oil – For cooking the corn, adding flavor and ensuring a nice char.
How to Make Street Corn Smash Burger Tacos
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious Street Corn Smash Burger Tacos:
Step 1: Char the Corn
Add olive oil to a large skillet over medium-high heat. Toss in the corn and stir frequently until it starts to char and develop color, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Let it cool afterward.
Step 2: Make the Corn Topping
In a large bowl, combine mayonnaise, lime juice, lime zest, garlic, Tajin, chili powder, and salt and pepper. Mix to create a beautifully creamy sauce, then fold in the charred corn, cilantro, scallions, jalapeño, and cojita cheese. Don’t forget to sprinkle a little extra cheese, Tajin, and chili powder on top for that flourish.
Step 3: Blend the Cilantro Sauce
Using a food processor or blender, purée cilantro leaves with pickled jalapeños and their juice until finely minced. Don’t be shy—scrape those sides down a few times for even blending.
Step 4: Prepare the Creamy Dressing
In a mixing bowl, blend mayo and sour cream together with ranch seasoning, garlic powder, and salt. Pour in the cilantro mixture and stir, then add lime juice. If you want a thinner consistency, add a splash of buttermilk until it is just right.
Step 5: Shape Your Burger Patties
Divide the hamburger meat into 3.5-ounce portions and press them into 6-inch flour tortillas, slightly overlapping the edges. Season with salt and pepper for an extra flavor boost.
Step 6: Cook the Smash Burgers
Heat a griddle or large skillet over high heat. Place your tortilla-wrapped burger patties onto the griddle. Using a spatula, press down firmly to cook for about 2-3 minutes. Flip carefully and let them cook for another 1-2 minutes.
Finish with a generous scoop of the street corn topping, drizzle your creamy jalapeño sauce, and feel free to add more cojita or queso fresco cheese. Now, dig in and enjoy your amazing Street Corn Smash Burger Tacos!
You Must Know About Street Corn Smash Burger Tacos
- This amazing Street Corn Smash Burger Tacos offers more than just flavor; it makes meal prep a breeze.
- You can easily customize the ingredients based on what you have on hand.
- The vibrant colors and aromas make it visually stunning on any dinner table.
- Perfect for grilling but versatile enough for baking or pan-searing.
Perfecting Street Corn Smash Burger Tacos Cooking Process
Start by charring the corn first to develop its sweet flavor while it cools. Meanwhile, prepare the creamy sauces and marinate the cilantro mixture. Shape and fry the burger tortillas last for a delightful finish.
Add Your Touch to Street Corn Smash Burger Tacos
Feel free to swap the ground hamburger for turkey or plant-based protein. You can also use fresh herbs like parsley instead of cilantro or different types of cheese for varied flavors.
Storing & Reheating Street Corn Smash Burger Tacos
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, briefly warm them in a skillet over medium heat to restore their crispy texture.
Chef's Helpful Tips for Street Corn Smash Burger Tacos
- Use high-quality, fresh ingredients for the best flavor.
- Remember to give each tortilla enough time to sear properly.
- It’s essential not to overcrowd the skillet to achieve those perfect smash burgers!
Sharing this recipe with my friends led to an impromptu taco night that was full of laughter and indulgence. Everyone agreed that these Street Corn Smash Burger Tacos would become a regular in their weeknight rotation.
FAQs About Street Corn Smash Burger Tacos
What is Street Corn Smash Burger Tacos?
Street Corn Smash Burger Tacos are a delightful fusion of flavors featuring juicy, charred hamburger patties pressed into soft flour tortillas, topped with a vibrant street corn salad. This dish combines the warmth of freshly smashed burgers with the refreshing zing of cilantro, pickled jalapeños, and creamy sauces. Perfect for taco nights or casual gatherings, these tacos bring together the best of both worlds for every food lover to enjoy.
How do I customize my Street Corn Smash Burger Tacos?
You can easily customize your Street Corn Smash Burger Tacos to suit your taste. Swap the ground beef for turkey or plant-based proteins for an alternative option. If you’re not a fan of cilantro, fresh parsley works wonderfully too. Additionally, consider trying different cheeses, such as feta or mozzarella, for a unique twist. Don’t hesitate to add your favorite toppings like Avocado crema or fresh sliced radishes to enhance the flavors.
Can I make Street Corn Smash Burger Tacos ahead of time?
Absolutely! While it’s best to serve Street Corn Smash Burger Tacos fresh, you can prepare most of the components in advance. Cook the street corn salad and sauces the day before, and store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve, simply cook the burger tortillas, assemble, and enjoy. This makes it easy to have a stunning and flavorful meal ready for your guests with minimal effort.
What sides pair well with Street Corn Smash Burger Tacos?
Street Corn Smash Burger Tacos pair beautifully with a multitude of sides. Consider serving them with a fresh green salad, seasoned rice, or crispy tortilla chips with salsa for added crunch. For a refreshing touch, a side of coleslaw or a light avocado salad can balance out the richness of the tacos. Pairing them with a chilled beverage like jarritos or a zesty margarita could elevate your taco night to a whole new level!
Conclusion for Street Corn Smash Burger Tacos
Street Corn Smash Burger Tacos are a unique and delicious way to enjoy a classic burger with a twist. With their charred flavors and vibrant toppings, you’ll impress your friends and family at any gathering. Whether you customize the ingredients or serve them alongside scrumptious sides, these tacos will surely become a favorite in your recipe repertoire. Don’t miss out on trying these delightful Street Corn Smash Burger Tacos for your next meal!
Street Corn Smash Burger Tacos
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Add olive oil to a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add in the corn and allow it to cook stirring frequently until it starts to char and get some color, about 5-7 minutes. Allow to cool.
- In a large bowl, combine mayonnaise, lime juice, lime zest, garlic, Tajin, chili powder, salt, and pepper to make a sauce. Then add in the corn, cilantro, green onions, jalapeno, and cojita cheese. Mix well.
- In a food processor, purée cilantro leaves with the pickled jalapenos and their juice until as minced as possible, scraping down the sides a few times.
- In a mixing bowl, combine mayo, sour cream, ranch seasoning, garlic powder, and salt. Mix well.
- Pour the cilantro mixture into the sour cream mixture, stir to combine, and add lime juice. Add buttermilk if needed to thin it out until you reach the desired consistency.
- Separate the hamburger meat into 3.5-ounce portions and press into 6-inch flour tortilla shells into a thin even layer, slightly overlapping the edges of the tortilla. Season with salt and pepper.
- In a griddle or large skillet over high heat, cook the tortillas burger side down. Use a spatula or burger press to press firmly on each tortilla and cook undisturbed for 2-3 minutes. Flip the tortilla and cook another 1-2 minutes.
- Remove the smash burgers, add a scoop of the street corn salad, creamy jalapeno sauce, and hot sauce, then sprinkle with cojita or queso fresco cheese if desired.
