Description
- These Meatball Smash Tacos are a fun and flavorful twist on traditional tacos. With perfectly seasoned meatballs that are smashed into crispy taco shells, topped with fresh toppings, and drizzled with a creamy sauce, these tacos are the perfect combination of savory and satisfying. Perfect for Taco Tuesday or any casual meal with family and friends.
Ingredients
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For the Meatballs:
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1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey for a leaner option)
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1/4 cup breadcrumbs
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1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
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1 large egg
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional)
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1 teaspoon dried oregano
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1 teaspoon ground cumin
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Salt and pepper to taste
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1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking)
For the Tacos:
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8 small corn or flour tortillas (depending on preference)
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1/2 cup shredded lettuce
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1/2 cup diced tomatoes
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1/4 cup diced red onion
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1/2 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, Mexican blend, or your choice)
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1/4 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt (for drizzling)
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1 tablespoon lime juice
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Salsa or hot sauce (optional for added heat)
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Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)
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Instructions
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Make the Meatballs:
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In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, minced garlic, parsley, oregano, cumin, salt, and pepper.
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Mix until well combined, but be careful not to overwork the meat.
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Form the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter (you should get around 16 meatballs).
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Cook the Meatballs:
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Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
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Add the meatballs to the skillet, making sure not to overcrowd them.
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Cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until browned and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 160°F or 71°C).
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Once cooked, remove from the skillet and set aside.
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Smash the Meatballs:
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Once the meatballs have rested for a few minutes, use a spatula to gently smash each meatball flat. This will help them fit better into the taco shell and give them a crispy edge.
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Prepare the Tortillas:
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While the meatballs are resting, warm your tortillas in a dry skillet or on a griddle for 20-30 seconds per side, until soft and pliable.
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Assemble the Tacos:
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Place one or two smashed meatballs in the center of each tortilla.
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Top with shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, red onions, and shredded cheese.
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Drizzle with sour cream or Greek yogurt, and squeeze fresh lime juice over the top for added zest.
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Add salsa or hot sauce for some heat if desired, and garnish with fresh cilantro.
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Serve:
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Serve the Meatball Smash Tacos immediately with your favorite sides, and enjoy!
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Notes
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For a spicier kick, add jalapeños or a sprinkle of chili powder to the meatball mixture.
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You can prepare the meatballs ahead of time and store them in the fridge or freezer for a quick meal.
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These tacos are versatile; you can swap the sour cream for guacamole or avocado slices for extra creaminess.
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If you prefer a more traditional taco with whole meatballs, skip the smashing step and simply place the meatballs as is in the tortillas.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Dish, Tacos
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 tacos
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 750mg
- Fat: 22
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 70mg