Smashed Cheeseburger Tacos are a mouthwatering blend of two beloved dishes. By combining the juicy, savory flavors of a cheeseburger with the crispy, handheld convenience of a taco, this recipe offers a fun and satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion. The crispy tortillas provide the perfect base for seasoned ground beef, which is topped with melted cheddar cheese, fresh lettuce, tomatoes, and pickles. Whether you’re serving them at a party or enjoying a family dinner, these tacos are sure to be a hit.
Smashed Cheeseburger Tacos bring together the best of two worlds: the juicy, savory flavors of a classic cheeseburger and the crispy, handheld convenience of a taco. This fusion dish is perfect for a fun family dinner or a crowd-pleasing party snack.
INGREDIENTS
- Ground beef: The base of your taco, providing rich, savory flavor and a hearty texture.
- Flour tortillas: Soft and pliable, these tortillas form the perfect shell for your smashed cheeseburger filling.
- Cheddar cheese: Melts beautifully over the beef, adding a sharp, cheesy flavor.
- Seasoning mix: Customize with your favorite spices to enhance the flavor of the beef.
- Cooking oil: Helps achieve that perfect crispy texture on the tortillas.
- Mayo: Adds creaminess to the optional sauce.
- Ketchup: Provides a sweet and tangy note to the sauce.
- Mustard: Brings a bit of sharpness to balance the flavors.
- Pickle relish: Adds a touch of sweetness and crunch to the sauce.
- Shredded lettuce: Provides freshness and a bit of crunch.
- Tomato slices: Adds a juicy, acidic contrast to the rich beef and cheese.
- Pickles: For that classic cheeseburger taste, adding tangy and crunchy elements.
INSTRUCTIONS
- Step 1:
- In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, ketchup, mustard, and pickle relish to create a tangy and creamy sauce. Set aside if you plan to use it for the tacos.
- Step 2:
- Warm a skillet or griddle over medium-high heat to prepare it for cooking the tacos. Lightly oil the cooking surface to ensure the tortillas get crispy.
- Step 3:
- Divide the ground beef into six equal portions. Flatten each portion directly onto a flour tortilla, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle your preferred seasoning mix over the beef for added flavor.
- Step 4:
- Place the tortillas beef-side down on the preheated skillet or griddle. Cook for about two minutes, allowing the beef to brown and the tortilla to crisp up slightly.
- Step 5:
- Carefully flip the tortillas over so the beef side is facing up. Immediately sprinkle cheddar cheese on top of the beef, allowing it to melt while the other side of the tortilla crisps.
- Step 6:
- Once the cheese has melted and the tortilla is crispy, remove it from the skillet. Top each taco with shredded lettuce, tomato slices, and pickles for a fresh, crunchy contrast.
- Step 7:
- Fold each tortilla into a taco shape, securing the filling inside. Serve the tacos immediately while they’re hot, with the optional sauce on the side for dipping or drizzling.
Serving and Storage Tips
- Serve these Smashed Cheeseburger Tacos hot, right off the skillet, for the best flavor and texture.
- Pair them with a side of crispy fries or a fresh salad to round out the meal.
- If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Reheat them in a skillet to maintain their crispiness.
- To make them more kid-friendly, you can adjust the seasonings to be milder or offer the sauce on the side for dipping.
Helpful Notes
- For a spicier version, add some hot sauce or diced jalapeños to the beef mixture.
- You can substitute the cheddar cheese with any of your favorite melting cheeses, like Monterey Jack or pepper jack, for a different flavor profile.
- If you prefer a crunchier tortilla, cook them a little longer on each side until they are golden and crisp.
Tips from well-known chefs
- Chef Bobby Flay: “For an extra burst of flavor, try grilling the tortillas lightly before adding the beef. This adds a smoky note to the tacos.”
- Chef Rachael Ray: “Adding a bit of Worcestershire sauce to the ground beef mixture gives it a deeper, more savory flavor, perfect for these tacos.”
- Chef Guy Fieri: “Top your Smashed Cheeseburger Tacos with some crispy bacon crumbles for an over-the-top flavor experience.”