Get ready to fall head over heels for Street Corn Smash Burger Tacos! This vibrant, bold recipe blends everything we love about juicy, crispy smash burgers with the irresistible flavors of Mexican street corn. Each bite pairs tender seasoned beef, perfectly toasted tortillas, and a creamy-tangy street corn topping bursting with cotija, lime, and cilantro. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or new to tacos, this fun twist is a total flavor bomb you’ll crave again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
You don’t need a laundry list to make Street Corn Smash Burger Tacos, but each ingredient brings something essential – from the richness of ground beef to the punchy brightness of lime and cilantro. Here’s what goes into crafting these show-stopping tacos and a tip for each to help you get it just right.
- Ground beef (1 lb, 80/20): The essential base for juicy, flavorful smash burgers; the fat ratio keeps things moist.
- Small corn or flour tortillas (8): Go with corn for classic crunch or flour for a softer hug; both work magic.
- Vegetable oil (1 tablespoon): Helps char the corn and gives it irresistible caramelized flavor.
- Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Brings all the ingredients to life; sprinkle evenly over your beef for the best distribution.
- Black pepper (1/2 teaspoon): Adds that subtle bite and depth that completes the savory profile.
- Garlic powder (1/2 teaspoon): Rounds out the beef with warm, aromatic undertones.
- Smoked paprika (1/2 teaspoon): Delivers gentle smokiness that makes the burger meat unforgettable.
- Frozen or fresh corn kernels (1 cup): Charring these unlocks that true street corn sweetness and depth.
- Mayonnaise (1/4 cup): Creates that creamy, rich base for the street corn sauce.
- Sour cream (1/4 cup): Adds tang and balances the creamy texture of the topping.
- Crumbled cotija cheese (1/2 cup): A salty, crumbly must for authentic elote flavor.
- Jalapeño, finely chopped (1, optional): Brings a spicy kick for those who love some heat; use more or less to taste.
- Lime juice (1 tablespoon): Gives everything brightness and zing—don’t skip it!
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (2 tablespoons): Infuses the topping with aromatic freshness.
- Diced red onion (1/4 cup): Offers crunch and sharpness as the perfect final touch.
- Shredded lettuce (optional): Adds a refreshing bite and extra crunch, especially with beef.
- Hot sauce or chili powder (optional): Customizes the heat level for every tastebud at your table.
How to Make Street Corn Smash Burger Tacos
Step 1: Whip Up the Street Corn Sauce
Start off by combining your mayonnaise, sour cream, lime juice, cotija cheese, chopped cilantro, and jalapeño (if you’re feeling spicy) in a small bowl. Stir everything together until smooth and creamy, then set it aside. This magical mixture will become the star of your Street Corn Smash Burger Tacos.
Step 2: Char the Corn
Heat your skillet or grill pan to medium-high and drizzle in a touch of vegetable oil. Add your corn kernels and cook, stirring occasionally, until they pick up some golden brown, charred spots. This usually takes about five minutes and gives the corn that classic smoky, street-food flavor. Once done, let it cool for a moment before gently folding it into your street corn sauce.
Step 3: Prep and Season the Beef
Divide your ground beef into eight even balls; this makes the perfect portion for each taco. Lay out your tortillas and get ready for some smash burger action. Place one beef ball onto each tortilla and use your spatula or the palm of your hand to press it flat. Aim for an even layer of beef that covers most of the tortilla’s surface. Sprinkle each with your seasonings: salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika.
Step 4: Cook the Smash Burger Tacos
Fire up your skillet or griddle again over medium-high heat. Set each tortilla, beef side down, onto the hot surface and press lightly with your spatula. Let them sizzle for 2–3 minutes until the hamburger side is browned and crispy around the edges. Flip them over and cook for another minute to toast the tortillas until golden.
Step 5: Assemble and Top
Lay out your hot, crispy Street Corn Smash Burger Tacos and pile on a hefty spoonful of your creamy, corn-packed elote topping. Scatter diced red onion, extra cotija cheese, lettuce if you like extra crunch, and finish with a few dashes of hot sauce or a pinch of chili powder. Serve them up while they’re warm and watch them disappear!
How to Serve Street Corn Smash Burger Tacos
Garnishes
The beauty of Street Corn Smash Burger Tacos lies in the finishing touches. Amp up the authenticity with a sprinkle of extra cotija, a few fresh cilantro leaves, and paper-thin slices of jalapeño for bold color. A squeeze of fresh lime adds flair and brightness every taco absolutely loves.
Side Dishes
Turn taco night into a real feast! Pair your tacos with chips and fresh guacamole, tangy pickled red onions, or a light Mexican slaw for crunch and contrast. For a hearty side, try black beans or seasoned rice to round out the meal without stealing the spotlight.
Creative Ways to Present
Take your Street Corn Smash Burger Tacos to the next level with creative plating. Serve them on a colorful platter garnished with lime wedges, or go for individual taco boards with little jars of toppings and sauces. Mini tacos make a dazzling appetizer at parties, or let friends customize with a DIY taco bar!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
While Street Corn Smash Burger Tacos are best fresh, you can store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Keep the creamy corn topping and assembled tacos separate to preserve the crispy texture and vibrant flavors.
Freezing
Freezing works best for the cooked beef-on-tortilla base (minus the toppings). Stack cooled tacos between parchment sheets in a freezer-safe container. The street corn topping doesn’t freeze well, so make that fresh when you’re ready to enjoy again.
Reheating
To bring back that fresh-off-the-skillet experience, reheat the beef-and-tortilla base in a hot skillet for a few minutes per side until warmed through and crispy. Add the creamy street corn topping and garnishes just before serving for the ultimate leftover treat.
FAQs
Can I use a different type Main Course
Absolutely! While cotija gives the most authentic street corn flavor, feta cheese is a great substitute for a similar salty tang. You could also use queso fresco or even a mild shredded cheese blend if that’s what you have on hand.
What’s the best way to char the corn?
A super hot dry skillet or grill pan is key. If you have fresh ears of corn, you can even grill them whole, then slice off the kernels. For frozen corn, just thaw first and proceed as usual – you’ll still get those delicious toasty bits!
Can I make these tacos gluten free?
Yes! Just use corn tortillas to keep your Street Corn Smash Burger Tacos completely gluten free. Double check labels on your seasonings for hidden gluten if needed.
How spicy are these tacos?
That’s totally up to you. The jalapeño in the corn topping is optional, and adding hot sauce or chili powder at the end lets everyone control their own heat level. These tacos are super family friendly as written!
Can I use a different meat or make it vegetarian?
Definitely! Ground chicken or turkey makes a lighter version, or try plant-based ground for a vegetarian option. The big, bold flavors of the street corn topping make these tacos adaptable for almost any protein base.
Final Thoughts
If you’ve been searching for a taco night upgrade, Street Corn Smash Burger Tacos will absolutely steal the show. There’s just something about the combo of smoky beef, creamy street corn, and bright, zesty toppings that’s downright irresistible. Give them a try and prepare for instant crowd-pleaser status—your taste buds will thank you!
Print
Street Corn Smash Burger Tacos Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 8 tacos
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican-American
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
These Street Corn Smash Burger Tacos are a delicious fusion of flavors, combining the best of smash burgers with the vibrant taste of Mexican street corn. Juicy ground beef smashed onto tortillas, topped with a creamy street corn mixture, and finished with all the classic taco fixings.
Ingredients
For the Street Corn Sauce:
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1/2 cup crumbled cotija cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro
- 1 jalapeño, finely chopped (optional)
For the Tacos:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20)
- 8 small corn or flour tortillas
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 cup frozen or fresh corn kernels
- 1/4 cup diced red onion
- Shredded lettuce (optional)
- Hot sauce or chili powder (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Street Corn Sauce: In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, sour cream, lime juice, cotija cheese, cilantro, and jalapeño. Set aside.
- Cook the Corn: In a hot skillet, cook the corn with oil until charred, then mix into the street corn sauce.
- Smash the Beef: Divide beef into balls, flatten on tortillas, season, and cook until crispy.
- Assemble: Top each taco with street corn mixture, onion, cotija, lettuce, and hot sauce or chili powder.
Notes
- Warm tortillas before smashing beef for extra flavor.
- Substitute ground chicken or turkey for a leaner option.
- Enhance with avocado slices or pickled red onions.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 taco
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 280mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 16g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
