Street Corn Smash Burger Tacos Recipe

Introduction

If you’re a fan of bold flavors, unique twists on classic dishes, and creative mash-ups, then Street Corn Smash Burger Tacos are the perfect recipe for you! This exciting dish combines three beloved food elements—smash burgers, street corn, and tacos—into one mouthwatering creation that will become your new go-to meal for any occasion. The juicy, crispy smash burger patties are topped with creamy, flavorful street corn, all nestled in a soft taco shell for a fresh and fun bite.

The fusion of street corn and smash burgers takes the best parts of each dish and merges them into a single, unforgettable taco experience. The street corn, with its smoky, spicy, and creamy flavors, adds the perfect balance to the savory beef patties, while the tacos serve as a convenient, handheld vessel for all of this deliciousness. Whether you’re hosting a barbecue, preparing a weeknight dinner, or planning a game-day feast, Street Corn Smash Burger Tacos are sure to impress your friends and family.

In this recipe guide, you’ll learn everything you need to know to make these flavorful tacos at home, from step-by-step instructions to tips on how to make this dish your own. Plus, we’ll cover a few variations and ideas for customizing the tacos to suit your taste. Let’s dive into the mouthwatering world of Street Corn Smash Burger Tacos!

Why You’ll Love Street Corn Smash Burger Tacos

• Unique Flavor Combination: These tacos are a fusion of three beloved dishes, blending smoky, creamy street corn with juicy, crispy smash burgers, all served in a taco shell. The contrast of flavors and textures makes each bite a delicious surprise.
• Flavorful Street Corn: The street corn is packed with flavors from ingredients like cotija cheese, mayonnaise, chili powder, and lime juice. This creamy, slightly spicy, and tangy topping elevates the burger patties, adding a refreshing burst of flavor.
• Smash Burger Perfection: The smash burger patty is thin, crispy on the edges, and juicy in the middle. It’s perfectly seasoned and adds that satisfying burger flavor you know and love.
• Fun to Eat: The taco format makes these burgers portable and easy to eat, perfect for parties, casual meals, or anytime you want to enjoy a handheld treat with a ton of flavor.
• Versatile and Customizable: This recipe is easily customizable. You can adjust the level of spiciness, use different toppings, or swap out ingredients to suit your preferences. Whether you’re adding extra cheese, experimenting with different types of corn, or trying a variety of salsas, the possibilities are endless.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 30 minutes
• Servings: 6 tacos
• Calories per Serving: Approximately 350-400 calories per taco, depending on the specific ingredients and portions used.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 350-400 kcal
• Fat: 20-25g
• Carbohydrates: 25-30g
• Protein: 20g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 4g

Ingredients

For the Smash Burgers:

• 1 lb ground beef (80% lean for juiciness and flavor)
• 6 small flour tortillas or soft taco shells
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil (for cooking)

For the Street Corn Topping:

• 2 cups corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (or butter)
• 1/4 cup mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons sour cream
• 1/4 cup cotija cheese, crumbled (or feta if you can’t find cotija)
• 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1 teaspoon chili powder (adjust to taste)
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Juice of 1 lime
• Salt and pepper to taste

Optional Toppings:

• Fresh cilantro (for garnish)
• Lime wedges
• Jalapeño slices (for extra heat)
• Avocado slices or guacamole
• Hot sauce (optional, for extra spice)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Street Corn Topping

Start by making the street corn topping. In a medium skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil or butter over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the corn kernels to the pan and sauté for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the corn is slightly charred and golden brown. You can also use grilled corn for a smokier flavor, if desired.

After the corn is cooked, transfer it to a mixing bowl and let it cool slightly. Add the mayonnaise, sour cream, lime juice, cotija cheese, chili powder, smoked paprika, and cilantro. Stir everything together until the corn is well coated in the creamy mixture. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.

Once the street corn is ready, set it aside while you cook the smash burgers.

2. Prepare the Smash Burger Patties

For the smash burger patties, divide the ground beef into 6 equal portions. You don’t need to shape them into full patties just yet—simply roll the meat into loose balls. This is the key to getting the crispy edges and juicy interior of a smash burger.

Heat a large skillet or cast-iron pan over medium-high heat and add a tablespoon of vegetable oil. Once the pan is hot, place the beef balls into the skillet, making sure they’re not overcrowded. Immediately use a spatula or burger press to smash each ball into a thin patty. Press firmly to create the signature crispy edges.

Season the patties with salt and pepper, and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until they are nicely browned and crispy on the edges. Since smash burgers are thin, they cook quickly, so keep an eye on them to prevent overcooking.

Once the patties are cooked to your desired level of doneness, remove them from the skillet and set them aside. If desired, add a slice of cheese to each patty during the last minute of cooking to melt it.

3. Assemble the Tacos

Now that your street corn and smash burger patties are ready, it’s time to assemble the tacos. Warm your taco shells by heating them in a dry skillet for about 30 seconds per side or microwaving them for a few seconds until soft and pliable.

Place a taco shell on a plate and layer with a cooked smash burger patty. Top the burger with a generous scoop of the creamy street corn mixture. Add extra toppings if desired, such as fresh cilantro, jalapeño slices, avocado, or a drizzle of hot sauce for more heat.

If you like, you can squeeze a bit of fresh lime juice over the top to give the tacos an extra burst of freshness.

4. Serve and Enjoy

Serve the Street Corn Smash Burger Tacos immediately while they’re still warm and delicious. These tacos are perfect for casual dinners, game nights, or gatherings where finger foods are a hit. Enjoy them with a side of chips and salsa, or even a light salad to complete the meal.

Tips for Perfect Street Corn Smash Burger Tacos

• Use Fresh Corn: If you have access to fresh corn on the cob, grill or roast it for the best flavor in your street corn topping. The smoky char from grilling adds depth to the dish.
• Customize the Heat: Adjust the level of heat in the street corn mixture by using more or less chili powder, or by adding jalapeño slices or hot sauce to the tacos themselves. For a milder version, skip the chili powder or use paprika only.
• Cheese Variations: While cotija cheese is traditional for street corn, you can substitute it with other cheeses such as feta or queso fresco if you prefer. These will give you a similar creamy and tangy flavor.
• Make It Your Own: Add your own toppings to personalize the tacos. Guacamole, salsa, pickled onions, or a sprinkle of fresh herbs like cilantro can all enhance the flavor profile.
• Use a Burger Press: For the crispiest smash burgers, use a burger press to ensure even and consistent smashing. This also helps the patty form those delicious crispy edges.
• Grill the Burgers: If you’re grilling, you can easily transfer the patties to the grill after smashing them in the pan. Just be sure to cook them on a hot grill to get the perfect sear.

Variations of Street Corn Smash Burger Tacos

• Vegetarian Option: For a vegetarian version, swap the beef patties for veggie patties or grilled portobello mushrooms. The creamy street corn topping pairs wonderfully with the earthy flavor of grilled mushrooms.
• BBQ Smash Burger Tacos: Add a twist to your tacos by swapping out the street corn for a smoky BBQ corn mixture. Toss the corn with barbecue sauce, cilantro, and green onions for a Southern-inspired flavor.
• Spicy Street Corn: If you like more heat, increase the amount of chili powder or add a few dashes of hot sauce to the street corn mixture. You can also serve the tacos with a spicy jalapeño ranch dressing for added creaminess and heat.
• Taco Salad: Transform the street corn smash burger into a taco salad by skipping the taco shells and layering the street corn, smash burger patties, and toppings over a bed of lettuce. Add a drizzle of creamy dressing and enjoy a lighter, yet still flavorful, option.

Storage and Shelf Life

If you have any leftovers, store them separately in airtight containers. The street corn and the smash burger patties should be kept in separate containers to prevent sogginess. The taco shells can be stored in a separate bag or container.

Leftover cooked smash burgers will stay fresh in the fridge for 2-3 days. The street corn can be stored for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm the burger patties in a skillet or microwave, and reheat the street corn mixture in the microwave or on the stove until warmed through. Fresh taco shells should be warmed just before serving.

Side Dishes and Pairings for Street Corn Smash Burger Tacos

• Chips and Salsa: A classic side that pairs wonderfully with the bold flavors of the tacos. Try different types of salsa, such as mango or pineapple salsa, to add a sweet contrast to the spicy tacos.
• Mexican Rice: Serve these tacos with a side of flavorful Mexican rice for a complete meal. The rice adds a filling, savory element that balances the rich flavors of the tacos.
• Grilled Vegetables: Grilled peppers, onions, and zucchini make a great side dish to complement the tacos. Their smoky flavor pairs beautifully with the street corn and the smash burgers.
• Refreshing Drinks: Pair these tacos with a cold, refreshing drink like a margarita, iced tea, or agua fresca. The acidity of a citrus-based drink will help cut through the richness of the tacos.

Print

Conclusion

Street Corn Smash Burger Tacos are a perfect blend of three iconic dishes, making them a fun and flavorful meal that will leave your taste buds craving more. The crispy smash burgers, creamy street corn, and soft taco shell create a dynamic combination of textures and flavors that will impress anyone who tries them.

With easy-to-follow instructions and plenty of options for customization, you can make this recipe your own and serve it at any occasion. Whether you’re enjoying them on a casual weeknight or serving them at a gathering, Street Corn Smash Burger Tacos are sure to be a hit.