How to Make Smash Tacos With Chorizo, Cheese, and Chili-Lime Corn
Spicy chorizo on warm tortillas gives a crispy, melty bite paired with a tangy side.
How to Make Smash Tacos: An Easy, Flavorful Tex-Mex Treat
Smash tacos offer a bold twist on classic Tex-Mex, pairing juicy fresh chorizo and gooey cheese with crispy tortillas and vibrant toppings. This guide walks you through every step of making restaurant-worthy smash tacos at home, along with a buttery chili-lime corn side that’s perfect for summer gatherings.
Whether you’re throwing a backyard party, planning a weeknight meal, or looking for something new to try, these smash tacos deliver a craveable combination of savory, spicy, and refreshing flavors.
Why Smash Tacos?
Smash tacos have surged in popularity because of their addictive textures and fast cooking method. By pressing seasoned chorizo onto pliable flour tortillas, you achieve a crispy, savory base with melty cheese and plenty of room for creative toppings. The addition of chili-lime corn on the side ties everything together for a meal bursting with color and taste.
Ingredients for Smash Tacos and Chili-Lime Corn
- Kosher salt
- 1 1/2 lb. fresh chorizo, casings removed
- 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1/2 white onion, finely diced
- 12 (6-inch) flour tortillas
- 1 1/2 cups shredded pepper jack cheese (about 6 ounces)
- 6 ears of corn, shucked
- 6 Tbsp. salted butter
- Chili-lime seasoning (e.g., Tajín), for sprinkling
- Juice of 2 limes
- Shredded lettuce, sour cream, and pico de gallo for topping
| Ingredient | Role | Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Fresh chorizo | Main protein; provides bold, spicy flavor | Use raw, uncured chorizo for best texture |
| Flour tortillas | Base for tacos; crisps up during cooking | Pliable & easy to handle |
| Pepper jack cheese | Melted topping; adds heat & creaminess | Swap with Monterey Jack or cheddar |
| Chili-lime seasoning | Kicks up the flavor of corn | Tajín is a popular brand |
| Lime juice | Brightens corn & tacos | Extra wedges for serving |
Step-By-Step Directions for Smash Tacos
- Prep the Corn:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to boil.
- Shuck the ears of corn and set aside.
- Make Chorizo Mixture:
- Remove casings from fresh chorizo.
- In a large bowl, combine chorizo, chopped cilantro, and diced onion.
- Mix gently by hand until evenly distributed (avoid overmixing).
- Divide into 12 equal portions (about ⅓ cup each), shaping into balls.
- Prepare Tortillas:
- Lay out 12 flour tortillas.
- Place a chorizo portion in the center of each and spread into a thin layer, leaving a small border.
- Cook Smash Tacos:
- Heat a skillet or griddle over medium heat.
- Working in batches, flip the tortillas meat-side down onto the hot surface.
- Press lightly and cook until the chorizo browns (about 2 minutes).
- Flip so that the tortilla side is down.
- Sprinkle a tablespoon of pepper jack cheese over the meat side.
- Continue cooking 1-2 minutes until the cheese melts and the tortilla crisps.
- Make Chili-Lime Corn:
- Add shucked corn to boiling water.
- Cook 4 minutes until just tender but still crunchy.
- Drain and return corn to pot.
- Toss corn with salted butter immediately for a glossy finish.
- Sprinkle generously with chili-lime seasoning.
- Squeeze fresh lime juice on top.
- Finish, Top, and Serve:
- Top warm smash tacos with shredded lettuce, a dollop of sour cream, and spoonful of pico de gallo.
- Plate tacos alongside chili-lime corn for a balanced, colorful meal.
Expert Tips for Perfect Smash Tacos
- Fresh chorizo vs. dried chorizo: Choose raw, Mexican-style chorizo for seamless adhesion to tortillas; dried Spanish chorizo is harder and best for other uses.
- Cheese options: Pepper jack brings heat, but Monterey jack or cheddar can customize the flavor without losing creaminess.
- Tortilla handling: Flour tortillas hold up better to the smash cooking method than corn, which can tear or become brittle.
- Don’t overmix the chorizo: Overworking the meat makes the final taco filling dense, so mix until just combined.
- Cook in batches: Working with several tacos at a time helps maintain even heat and crispness.
Creative Toppings and Serving Ideas
Smash tacos are infinitely adaptable. Beyond the classic shredded lettuce, sour cream, and pico de gallo, try these customizations:
- Pickled red onions for bright acidity
- Crumbled queso fresco for mild creaminess
- Avocado slices or guacamole for richness
- Charred jalapeño rings for smoky heat
- Fresh radish slices for crunch
- Extra lime wedges for more zesty flavor
Seasonal & Menu Variations
Smash tacos are ideal for warm-weather gatherings or casual dinners:
- Summer Parties: Pair tacos with grilled melon-feta skewers and cold drinks.
- Back-to-School Lunches: Make smaller tacos and wrap for easy transport.
- Potluck: Add a big bowl of chili-lime corn or a vibrant salad for sharing.
- Festive Feasts: Serve with s’mores cookies for dessert.
What others are reading
For fall, try swapping chorizo for ground beef or turkey and mixing in roasted autumn veggies.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I use corn tortillas for smash tacos?
A: Flour tortillas are preferred for this technique since they’re more pliable and less likely to crack. Corn tortillas can be used, but handle gently and watch for breakage.
Q: What is the difference between fresh and dried chorizo?
A: Fresh chorizo has a soft, ground texture similar to sausage and cooks well on tortillas. Dried chorizo is firm, cured, and best sliced for soups, stews, or cheese boards.
Q: How spicy are smash tacos?
A: Spice level depends on the chorizo and cheese used. Pepper jack adds heat, but you can soften the flavor by choosing milder cheese or swapping chorizo with another protein.
Q: Can I make smash tacos ahead?
A: For best results, cook smash tacos fresh so the tortillas stay crisp. You can prep the filling and toppings ahead, then assemble and cook just before serving.
Q: What sides go well with smash tacos?
A: Chili-lime corn is a favorite, but any simple salad, bean dish, or grilled vegetables would work. For dessert, try cookies or a fruity cobbler.
More Summer Recipe Inspiration
- Gooey s’mores cookies for a sweet finish
- Frozen yogurt bark for a cooling treat
- Melon-feta skewers as a refreshing starter
- Wraps and salads for easy picnics and lunches
- Cinnamon roll peach cobbler for a comforting dessert
Smash tacos embody the spirit of summer with their effortless preparation and celebratory flavors. Whether you’re marking a special occasion or enjoying a sunny weekend, this recipe brings everyone together at the table.
Quick Reference Recipe Card: Smash Tacos with Chili-Lime Corn
- Prep time: 20 minutes
- Cook time: 20 minutes
- Serves: 6 adults (2 tacos each)
- Main flavors: Spicy chorizo, melty cheese, tangy corn
- Level: Easy
Tips for Sharing and Storing
- Keep hot tacos in a low oven (about 200°F) until ready to serve.
- Store leftovers in airtight containers; reheat on a skillet for best crispness.
- Chorizo filling and toppings stay fresh covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Feel free to double the recipe for larger crowds, or halve for a smaller meal. Tacos are customizable and always a hit!
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