Smashed Cheeseburger Tacos

The first bite of a Smashed Cheeseburger Taco is a symphony of flavors — crispy tortillas hugging juicy, seasoned beef and gooey cheddar that melts in your mouth. This recipe is quick to prepare, taking about 20 minutes from start to finish, and combines the beloved tastes of a cheeseburger and a taco into one delightful package. The reason it works so well is the perfect union of textures, from the soft tortilla to the crispy edges of the beef, making every bite a treat.

This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings with friends. You’ll love whipping these up for Taco Tuesdays or a simple dinner. You can make the sauce ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to a week for additional convenience.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• The combination of cheeseburger flavor and taco texture is a unique twist.
• Cooking the beef directly on the tortillas enhances the flavor and adds crispiness.
• The easy-to-make sauce elevates the taste without any fuss.
• You can customize toppings to suit everyone’s preference.

What You’ll Need

Gather the following ingredients to create these tasty tacos:

For the Beef

• 1 pound ground beef
• 6 taco size flour tortillas
• Seasoning of choice

For the Sauce

• 1/2 cup mayo
• 1/4 cup ketchup
• 1 tbsp mustard
• 2 tbsp pickle relish

For Toppings

• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• Shredded lettuce
• Tomato, diced
• Pickles

Use your favorite mayo or condiments if desired.

Substitutions & Swaps

• Ground turkey can replace ground beef.
• Use corn tortillas for a gluten-free option.
• Any cheese can work, like pepper jack for extra spice.
• Swap relish for diced jalapeños for heat.

How to Make It

Here’s how to whip up your Smashed Cheeseburger Tacos.

1. Mix Sauce

Combine mayo, ketchup, mustard, and relish in a small bowl to create the flavorful sauce.

2. Preheat Cooking Surface

Preheat a Blackstone griddle, cast iron skillet, or regular pan to medium-high heat.

3. Prepare Beef

Separate ground beef into six equal parts and smash each part onto your tortillas, spreading it evenly.

4. Season and Grease

Sprinkle the smashed beef with your chosen seasoning, then lightly grease your pan or griddle with oil to prevent sticking.

5. Cook Beef Side Down

Place the tortillas beef-side down onto your cooking surface, cooking for approximately 2 minutes or until the beef is browned.

6. Flip and Add Cheese

Flip the tortillas and immediately top the beef with shredded cheddar cheese. Cook for 1-3 minutes until the tortillas are crispy and the cheese is melted. Keep a close eye, as they can burn easily!

7. Serve and Enjoy

Remove from heat and add desired toppings. Fold like a taco and enjoy every delicious bite.

How to Store It

Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer: No, best enjoyed fresh.
Reheat: Microwave for 30 seconds to 1 minute.

Tips for Best Results

• Keep the cooking temperature consistent to avoid burning the tortillas.
• Use fresh toppings like lettuce and tomato to enhance crunchiness.
• Adjust beef thickness according to your crispiness preference.
• Experiment with different sauces for varied flavors.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with a side of crispy fries for a complete meal.
• Pair with a refreshing side salad for a lighter option.
• Enjoy with your favorite beer or soda for a casual gathering.