Street Corn Smash Burger Tacos Recipe

If you love the idea of combining all the fun of Mexican street corn with that crave-worthy, crispy-edged burger vibe, then Street Corn Smash Burger Tacos are about to become your new obsession. Imagine juicy burger patties pressed right into soft tortillas, layered with creamy jalapeno sauce, loaded with smoky, tangy street corn, and topped with fresh, zippy garnishes. Every bite is a glorious mix of textures, bold flavors, and satisfying crunch—honestly, these tacos are nothing short of a flavor celebration!

Ingredients You’ll Need

One of the best things about making Street Corn Smash Burger Tacos is how down-to-earth yet full-flavored the ingredients are. Each element brings either a punch of freshness, a bit of heat, irresistible creaminess, or those savory, chargrilled notes you can only get from homemade street corn.

• Ground hamburger (1.5 lbs, 80/20): Juicy ground beef with the perfect fat mix for juicy, flavorful smash burgers.
• Flour taco-sized tortillas (6): These handle the burger and toppings perfectly, getting crisped on the griddle for extra flavor.
• Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning both your burger and street corn toppings; don’t be shy!
• Cilantro leaves (3/4 cup, large stems removed): Brings fresh, citrusy bursts to both the sauce and street corn mixture.
• Pickled jalapenos (1/2 cup) and juice (2 tbsp): For a tangy, spicy lift in the creamy jalapeno sauce.
• Mayonnaise (3/4 cup + 1/3 cup): Used in both the sauce and the corn topping for that unmistakable creamy richness.
• Sour cream (3/4 cup): Adds extra tang and softens the heat in the jalapeno sauce.
• Dry ranch seasoning (1 heaping tbsp): That familiar herby, savory zing—you’ll use Hidden Valley or a similar blend.
• Garlic powder (1/2 tsp) + fresh garlic clove (1): Both forms deepen flavor, in sauce and street corn, respectively.
• Salt (1/2 tsp + to taste): Don’t underestimate the power of a good sprinkle.
• Lime juice (fresh, 1 tbsp + 1): Bright acidity in both the corn and sauce; use fresh for the best punch.
• Buttermilk (optional, 1/4 cup): Thins out the creamy jalapeno sauce to your liking.
• Fresh corn (5-6 ears, husked and cut from cob): The star of your street corn topping—seek out sweet, juicy corn.
• Lime zest (from 1 lime): Intensifies citrus notes in the corn topping.
• Sliced scallions (1/3 cup): Adds fresh, savory bite to the topping.
• Grated cotija cheese (1/3 cup): Salty and crumbly, perfect for street corn’s finishing touch.
• Cilantro, minced (1/4 cup): More fresh flavor for your corn mixture.
• Jalapeno, diced (1): Adds heat and boldness to the street corn topping.
• Chili powder (1/2-1 tsp): Warm spice for seasoning your street corn mixture.
• Tajin (1/2-1 tsp): Zesty Mexican seasoning for authenticity and a pop of color.
• Olive oil (2 tbsp): Used to char the corn perfectly.

How to Make Street Corn Smash Burger Tacos

Step 1: Prepare the Street Corn Topping

Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat, then add the fresh corn kernels. Stir frequently and let them develop that beautiful golden char for about 5–7 minutes—you’ll know it’s ready when your kitchen smells like summer. Allow the corn to cool slightly, then in a big bowl, mix together mayo, lime juice, lime zest, minced garlic, chili powder, Tajin, and salt. Toss in the charred corn, fresh cilantro, scallions, cotija cheese, and diced jalapeno, stirring until everything’s deliciously coated. Finish with a sprinkle of extra cotija, Tajin, and chili powder for a showstopping street corn mix.

Step 2: Make the Creamy Jalapeno Sauce

In a food processor or blender, pulse the fresh cilantro leaves with pickled jalapenos and a splash of their brine until finely minced. In a separate bowl, mix the mayo, sour cream, dry ranch, garlic powder, and salt. Pour the herby jalapeno mixture right in, then stir to combine. Squeeze in the lime juice, and if you want a thinner sauce, add buttermilk a little at a time until you reach the perfect drizzle-worthy texture.

Step 3: Smash and Cook the Burger Tacos

Divide the ground beef into six equal portions (about 3.5 ounces each). Instead of typical burger patties, press each one evenly straight onto the surface of a flour tortilla, making a thin layer that barely overlaps the edge (this helps anchor the burger right into the taco!). Season well with salt and pepper. Fire up a griddle or large skillet over high heat, and place the tortillas burger-side down. Press with a spatula or burger press to really smash the beef into the tortilla, letting it sear undisturbed for 2–3 minutes for maximum crispy edges. Flip with a spatula and cook the tortilla side for another 1–2 minutes until everything is perfectly golden and the burger is cooked through.

Step 4: Assemble the Street Corn Smash Burger Tacos

Now comes the part that turns these into a total showpiece. Place each burger-tortilla base on a plate, dollop generously with the street corn mixture, then hit it with a drizzle of that creamy jalapeno sauce. The combination of smoky, crunchy corn, juicy beef, and zesty drizzles is the magic of Street Corn Smash Burger Tacos, ready for you to grab and devour!

How to Serve Street Corn Smash Burger Tacos

Garnishes

Don’t hold back when it comes to toppings—pile on extra chopped cilantro, more crumbled cotija cheese, and a sprinkle of Tajin or chili powder. Slices of fresh jalapeno or a squeeze of extra lime juice also work wonders. The real fun of Street Corn Smash Burger Tacos is building them up just the way you like.

Side Dishes

Pair these tacos with light, crunchy sides like a cabbage slaw, a bowl of cool, creamy guacamole, or even spicy roasted potatoes. Street Corn Smash Burger Tacos are quite decadent, so a fresh, zingy salad with lots of lime and avocado makes a perfect match, keeping your meal balanced and bright.

Creative Ways to Present

Lay everything out family-style: burger tortillas, corn topping, jalapeno sauce, and all the toppings in bowls so everyone can build their own. Or, for parties, miniaturize the concept with street taco-size tortillas, or slice each taco into triangles as unexpected appetizer bites—Street Corn Smash Burger Tacos are an absolute conversation starter!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftover burger-topped tortillas, street corn topping, and jalapeno sauce in separate airtight containers in the fridge. This way, when you’re ready for round two, nothing gets soggy, and you can rebuild your Street Corn Smash Burger Tacos fresh.

Freezing

You can freeze just the cooked smash burgers (pressing them onto tortillas first works great!), stacking them with parchment between each one and sealing tight. The street corn and sauces are best enjoyed fresh, but if you must, freeze the corn topping separately and revive its texture with a quick skillet reheat.

Reheating

Reheat the burger-tortilla rounds in a hot skillet or in the oven until the beef is sizzling again and the tortilla is crisp. For the street corn topping, gently warm in a nonstick pan or microwave, then assemble your Street Corn Smash Burger Tacos just before serving for that fresh-from-the-griddle feel.

FAQs

Can I use ground chicken or turkey instead of beef?

Absolutely! Ground chicken or turkey works beautifully and will give your Street Corn Smash Burger Tacos a lighter twist. Just add a splash of oil to the poultry mixture to help with moisture and flavor.

What’s the best alternative to fresh corn if it’s out of season?

Frozen corn is a great substitute—just thaw and drain well before charring in the skillet. It really soaks up the seasoning and delivers excellent street corn flavor.

Do I have to use ranch seasoning in the jalapeno sauce?

If you don’t have ranch seasoning, you can substitute a blend of dried parsley, dill, chives, and a pinch of onion powder for a fresh, herbaceous flavor profile in your sauce. Still, the ranch packet does provide a distinct, craveable taste!

How spicy are these tacos?

You can control the heat completely—from barely-there warmth to fiery spice—by adjusting the amount of pickled and fresh jalapeno, as well as how much chili powder and Tajin you use. The creamy sauce balances the spice, so every bite is flavorful without being overwhelming.

Can I grill the corn instead of charring it in a skillet?

Definitely! Grilling corn imparts an unbeatable smoky flavor. Just grill the husked ears directly over medium heat, rotating until well-charred, then cut the kernels off and follow the recipe for your street corn topping.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a dinner that brings together bold, vibrant flavors and a sense of fun, you absolutely need to try these Street Corn Smash Burger Tacos. They’re equal parts playful and delicious, and they always get the table talking. Gather your ingredients, recruit some friends, and let the taco night festivities begin!

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