Go Back
–+ servings
Iram Mansoor

In-N-Out Smash Burger Tacos

No ratings yet
A Fusion of Classic Burger Flavors in Taco Form. Enjoy the best of both worlds with these In-N-Out Smash Burger Tacos—juicy beef patties, melty cheddar, crisp lettuce, and a tangy secret sauce all nestled in mini taco shells. Perfect for family dinners or game-night gatherings!
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 Servings
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
 
 

  • 1 lb ground beef (80% lean, 20% fat)
  • 8-10 mini flour or corn taco tortillas
  • 8-10 slices cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup chopped iceberg lettuce
  • 1 medium white onion, thinly sliced (for caramelizing)
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 1 tbsp vegetable oil (for caramelizing onions and cooking)
vegetableoil (for caramelizing onions and cooking)
  • 1 cup mayonnaise
  • 4 tbsp ketchup
  • 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tsp white vinegar
  • 3 tbsp sweet pickle relish
  • 3 tbsp caramelized onions (see below)
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste

Method
 

Caramelize the Onions
  1. Heat 1 tbsp vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-low heat.
  2. Add the thinly sliced onion with a pinch of salt. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 15-20 minutes, until deep golden brown and sweet.
  3. Remove from heat. Reserve 3 tbsp for the sauce and set the rest aside for topping.
Prepare the In-N-Out Sauce
  1. In a medium bowl, combine mayonnaise, ketchup, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, white vinegar, sweet relish, 3tbsp caramelized onions, garlic powder, a pinch of salt, and black pepper.
  2. Mix thoroughly until smooth and well combined.
  3. Taste and adjust seasoning as desired. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes for flavors to meld.
Cook the Smash Burger Tacos
  1. Wipe the skillet clean, then heat it over medium-high heat. Lightly oil if needed.
  2. Place a mini tortilla onto the skillet.
  3. Add 2-3 tablespoons of ground beef on top of each tortilla and press it down gently with a spatula to form an even layer almost to the edges.
  4. Season with salt and pepper.
  5. Cook the beef-side down for 4-5 minutes until browned and crispy.
  6. Flip so the tortilla is now on the bottom.
  7. Place a slice of cheddar cheese on top of the beef and cook for an additional1-2 minutes, allowing the cheese to melt and the tortilla to become golden and slightly crisp.
  8. Remove from skillet and repeat with remaining tortillas and beef.
Assemble the Tacos
  1. Top each taco with a handful of chopped lettuce, reserved caramelized onions, and a generous drizzle of In-N-Out sauce.
  2. Serve immediately while warm and enjoy!

Notes

  • Tortilla Choice: Both flour and corn tortillas work well; flour tortillas tend to crisp more evenly.
  • Cheese: American cheese slices can be used for authentic burger flavor.
  • Make Ahead: The sauce can be prepared up to 3 days ahead and refrigerated.
  • Extra Toppings: Consider adding sliced pickles or a few tomato slices for more “burger” authenticity.
  • Cooking Tips: For best results, cook only 2-3 tacos at a time to avoid crowding the pan and ensure an even, crispy crust on each. 

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!