Copycat Freddy’s Smash Burger Taco Recipe

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Freddy’s Smash Burger Taco is Inspired by the viral trend that had foodies everywhere buzzing, this tantalizing creation brings together the juicy flavors of a thin, seared burger patty and the handheld convenience of a taco.

How to make Freddy’s Smash Burger Taco

Freddy’s Smash Burger Taco is a fun, limited-time menu item from Freddy’s Frozen Custard & Steakburgers — a U.S. fast-casual chain known for its thin-pressed steakburgers and creamy frozen custard.

Ingredients

To make your homemade Freddy’s Smash Burger Taco, you’ll need the following:

• Ground beef (preferably 80% lean, 20% fat) – 1 pound (yields 4 thin patties)
• Salt and pepper – to taste
• Butter or oil – for cooking
• Small flour tortillas – 1 tortilla per patty
• American cheese slices – 1 slice per taco
• Lettuce – finely shredded
• Pickles – thinly sliced (optional, but adds some tangy freshness)
• Freddy’s Famous Fry Sauce – or your favorite burger sauce (you can prepare a similar fry sauce with mayo, ketchup, and a dash of pickle juice)
• Grilled or caramelized onions – optional for additional flavor

Instructions

Follow these steps to achieve the classic Freddy’s Smash Burger Taco experience:

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

1. Shred the lettuce into thin strips and set it aside.
2. Heat your flour tortillas in a dry skillet or on a griddle for a few seconds until warm and pliable. Keep them wrapped in a clean kitchen towel to stay warm and fresh.
3. Get the toppings (cheese, pickles, and sauce) ready for quick assembly.

Step 2: Smash the Burger Patties

1. Divide the ground beef into small, even portions (about 4 ounces per ball). Roll each portion into a loose ball.
2. Heat a heavy-bottomed skillet or griddle over medium-high heat. Add a small amount of butter or oil to prevent sticking.
3. Place one beef ball on the skillet, then use a spatula or burger smasher to press it down into a skinny patty. (The thinner, the better for that authentic smash burger texture!) Season with salt and pepper while cooking.
4. Let it cook for about 1-2 minutes on one side until crisp and browned. Flip and cook for an additional minute on the other side.
5. Place a slice of American cheese on the patty while it’s still hot so it melts seamlessly.

Step 3: Assemble the Taco

1. Take a warm tortilla and lay the cooked smash burger patty (with melted cheese) in the center.
2. Add a dollop of Freddy’s Fry Sauce (or your burger sauce) on top of the patty.
3. Layer it with shredded lettuce, pickles, and any additional toppings like caramelized onions for extra flavor.
4. Fold or roll the tortilla around the toppings like a taco.
5. Serve warm, with extra Fry Sauce on the side for dipping, alongside fries, chips, or a small salad for a complete meal.

Tips for the Best Smash Burger Taco

• Get the Right Beef: Go for ground beef with 20% fat content for that juicy and flavorful patty. Leaner meat will result in drier patties.
• Smash It Well: The key to a good smash burger is pressing the beef into a thin, even layer to get those crispy, caramelized edges. Use a sturdy spatula or a burger press.
• Warm Tortillas Are a Must: Soft, warm tortillas help fold the taco easily and prevent cracking.
• Don’t Overload: Keep the toppings simple to maintain the perfect balance of flavors—a smash burger taco is all about that crispy patty flavor shining through.
• Customize the Toppings: Feel free to experiment—add jalapeños for heat, guacamole for creaminess, or even bacon bits for extra indulgence!

What to serve with

Freddy’s Smash Burger Taco is a fun and flavorful dish, but pairing it with the right sides can elevate your meal to restaurant-worthy status!

1. French Fries

You can’t go wrong with this quintessential burger side. Crispy, golden fries are perfect for dipping into Freddy’s Famous Fry Sauce or ketchup! Opt for:

• Shoestring Fries: For that Freddy’s authentic touch.
• Sweet Potato Fries: If you want a slightly sweeter and healthier twist.

2. Onion Rings: Crunchy onion rings pair beautifully with the smash burger taco. The crispy exterior complements the soft tortilla wrap and juicy patty. Serve with a side of ranch or Freddy’s Fry Sauce for dipping.

3. Tater Tots: For a fun and nostalgic option, whip up a batch of crispy tater tots. These bite-sized potatoes offer a hearty and crispy pairing to balance the softness of the taco. Sprinkle some cheesy goodness over them for extra indulgence.

Ingredients Substitutes

One of the great things about Freddy’s Smash Burger Taco is that it’s versatile.

1. Ground Beef Substitutes

The star of the show is the smash burger patty, traditionally made with ground beef (80% lean, 20% fat). If you don’t have ground beef or prefer something else, here are some options:

• Ground Turkey or Chicken: These are leaner alternatives that still cook up deliciously. For extra flavor, mix in a bit of olive oil or butter since they tend to be less fatty than beef.
• Ground Pork: Offers juicy, flavorful patties with a little extra fat content (similar to beef).
• Plant-Based Meat: For a vegetarian or vegan option, opt for plant-based ground “beef” like Beyond Meat or Impossible Burger. These options are designed to mimic the texture and flavor of real beef.
• Ground Lamb: If you’re feeling adventurous, ground lamb can add a slightly gamey, rich flavor.

2. Flour Tortilla Substitutes

Flour tortillas are soft, foldable, and perfect for a taco, but there are plenty of alternatives:

• Corn Tortillas: These are gluten-free and have a slightly chewier texture, which works well for a more authentic taco vibe. Lightly warm them to prevent cracking.
• Whole Wheat Tortillas: A healthier option if you want a little more fiber and a nutty flavor in your tacos.
• Lettuce Wraps: For a low-carb or keto-friendly substitute, use crunchy iceberg lettuce leaves or romaine lettuce. They hold the patty and toppings surprisingly well.
• Flatbreads or Pita Bread: If you don’t have tortillas, soft flatbreads or pita can work as a sturdy wrap alternative.

3. American Cheese Substitutes

The creamy melt of American cheese is iconic, but you can swap it out for various other cheese types:

• Cheddar: Mild or sharp cheddar provides a similar melt and flavor but with a slightly sharper tang.
• Swiss Cheese: Slightly nutty and stretchy when melted, Swiss is a delicious option for a more gourmet twist.
• Provolone or Gouda: These cheeses have a creamy, mild flavor and melt beautifully.
• Vegan Cheese: For dairy-free eaters, go for a plant-based cheese that melts well, like Daiya or Violife slices.

4. Freddy’s Famous Fry Sauce Substitutes

Freddy’s Fry Sauce is a creamy and tangy mayo-based condiment. If you don’t have it on hand, you can easily substitute or whip up a similar sauce:

• DIY Fry Sauce: Mix equal parts mayonnaise and ketchup, then add a splash of pickle juice or vinegar for tang. You can also add garlic powder or paprika for extra flavor.
• Thousand Island Dressing: This creamy and slightly tangy dressing works as a great stand-in for fry sauce.
• Chipotle Mayo or Spicy Aioli: If you love some heat, go for a spiced mayo-based sauce with chipotle or hot sauce mixed in.
• Ranch Dressing: A creamy, herby alternative that pairs well with the taco ingredients.

5. Shredded Lettuce Substitutes

If you’re out of lettuce, don’t worry—you can try these alternatives:

• Cabbage: Thinly shredded green or purple cabbage offers a crunchy texture and slightly peppery flavor. Plus, it holds up well even if the taco sits out for a bit.
• Spinach: A more nutrient-dense alternative, baby spinach leaves add a tender, slightly earthy flavor.
• Arugula: For a peppery, gourmet twist, use arugula instead of lettuce.
• Kale: Finely chopped kale, especially when lightly massaged with oil, works well as a sturdier, hearty green.

6. Pickles Substitutes

Pickles add tang and freshness, but if you’re not a fan or don’t have them, here are some alternatives:

• Pickled Jalapeños: Perfect for spice lovers; these add heat and a tangy kick.
• Banana Peppers: Sweet and tangy, banana peppers are a great replacement for pickles.
• Cucumbers: Thinly sliced cucumbers can provide a crunchy, fresh element similar to pickles (but without the tang).
• Kimchi: For an adventurous twist, use kimchi (spicy, fermented Korean cabbage), which adds a savory, tangy flavor.

Final Thoughts

This Freddy’s Smash Burger Taco recipe is not only fun to make, but it’s also a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for dinner parties or weekend comfort meals.

More Burger Recipes:

• Homemade Applebee’s Cheesy Burger Recipe
• Copycat Applebee’s Grilled Cheese Burger Recipe
• Copycat Burger King Steakhouse Whopper Recipe