If you’re looking for a fun and delicious dinner idea that will have everyone at the table smiling, you’ve come to the right place! These Smashed Cheeseburger Tacos are a delightful twist on the classic cheeseburger. They combine all the flavors we love about burgers with the convenience of tacos. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a family gathering, this recipe is sure to be a hit!

What makes this recipe extra special is its simplicity and versatility. You can whip it up in no time, making it perfect for those evenings when you want something quick yet satisfying. Plus, even the pickiest eaters will enjoy these tasty tacos that are loaded with flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick to prepare: This recipe comes together in just a few minutes, making it ideal for busy nights.
Family-friendly: Everyone loves tacos! These smashed cheeseburger tacos are sure to please kids and adults alike.
Customizable toppings: You can top them with your favorite ingredients, allowing each person to build their perfect taco.
Delicious flavor: The combination of juicy beef, melted cheddar cheese, and fresh toppings creates a mouthwatering experience.
Easy clean-up: With minimal dishes involved, you’ll spend less time cleaning and more time enjoying your meal.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Cooking these Smashed Cheeseburger Tacos is easy because you only need simple, wholesome ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need to gather:

1 pound ground beef
6 taco size flour tortillas
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
seasoning of choice
oil for greasing the cooking surface
1/2 cup mayo
1/4 cup ketchup
1 tbsp mustard
2 tbsp pickle relish
shredded lettuce
tomato
pickles

Variations

One of the best things about Smashed Cheeseburger Tacos is how flexible they are! Feel free to get creative with different ingredients or toppings. Here are some fun ideas:

Swap the protein: Try using ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version of these tacos.
Make it spicy: Add jalapeños or hot sauce for an extra kick of heat!
Go vegetarian: Replace the beef with black beans or lentils for a tasty meatless option.
Change up the cheese: Use pepper jack or mozzarella for a unique flavor twist.

How to Make Smashed Cheeseburger Tacos

Step 1: Prepare the Sauce

In a small bowl, mix together the mayo, ketchup, mustard, and relish to create your delicious sauce. This step adds a creamy and tangy element to your tacos. If you’re short on time, feel free to use store-bought burger sauce instead!

Step 2: Preheat Your Cooking Surface

Preheat your Blackstone griddle or skillet over medium-high heat. This ensures that your tortillas and meat cook evenly while achieving that perfect crispy texture.

Step 3: Smash the Beef

Divide the raw ground beef into six equal parts. Place each portion onto your tortillas and smash them down evenly. This technique not only helps cook the beef faster but also allows it to soak into the tortilla beautifully.

Step 4: Grease Your Pan

Lightly grease your cooking surface with oil. The amount needed depends on your pan type and beef fat content; about 2 tablespoons usually works well. This step prevents sticking and promotes even browning.

Step 5: Cook the Tacos

Place your tortillas beef-side down onto the hot cooking surface and let them cook for about two minutes. After flipping them over, quickly add shredded cheese on top so it melts perfectly as they finish cooking.

Step 6: Add Toppings

Once cooked to your liking, remove from heat and load up with all your favorite toppings like shredded lettuce, tomato slices, and pickles. Fold them up like traditional tacos and get ready for a flavor explosion!

Now you’re all set to enjoy these amazing Smashed Cheeseburger Tacos! They’re sure to become a staple in your household just like they are in mine. Happy cooking!

Pro Tips for Making Smashed Cheeseburger Tacos

Making Smashed Cheeseburger Tacos is a breeze, but these pro tips will help you elevate your taco game even further!

Use fresh tortillas – Fresh flour tortillas will give you the best flavor and texture. If you can, buy them from a local tortilleria or make your own. They add an authentic touch to your meal!
Experiment with seasonings – Don’t hesitate to mix up the spices! Try adding garlic powder, onion powder, or even a hint of smoked paprika to the beef for an extra layer of flavor. Each seasoning brings a unique twist to your tacos.
Monitor cooking time closely – Since tortillas can burn quickly, keep an eye on them while cooking. Adjust the heat if needed to ensure everything cooks evenly without overdoing it.
Customize toppings – Get creative with your toppings! Avocado slices, diced jalapeños, or even a sprinkle of cilantro can take your tacos to the next level and cater to various taste preferences.
Make it a taco bar – Set up a fun taco bar with all the fixings laid out. This way, everyone can build their own tacos exactly how they like them—perfect for family dinners and gatherings!

How to Serve Smashed Cheeseburger Tacos

Serving Smashed Cheeseburger Tacos can be as fun and creative as making them! Here are some ideas to present this delightful dish.

Garnishes

Chopped green onions – A sprinkle of fresh green onions adds a pop of color and a mild onion flavor that complements the richness of the tacos.
Sour cream or Greek yogurt – A dollop on top provides creaminess and balances the flavors perfectly. It’s also great for those who love that creamy texture!
Cilantro leaves – Add some fresh cilantro for an aromatic finish that brightens up each bite. Just be sure to check if everyone enjoys its distinctive flavor!

Side Dishes

Classic coleslaw – A crunchy coleslaw made with cabbage and carrots dressed in a tangy vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the warm tacos, making it a perfect side.
Sweet potato fries – Crispy baked sweet potato fries are not only delicious but also offer a sweet counterbalance to the savory flavors of your tacos.
Corn on the cob – Grilled or boiled corn on the cob served with butter and lime juice is always a hit at family dinners! It brings a fun summer vibe that pairs wonderfully with tacos.
Mexican street corn salad (Esquites) – This off-the-cob version of elote combines corn kernels with lime juice, chili powder, cotija cheese (or dairy-free alternative), and herbs for an irresistible side dish bursting with flavor.

Now that you have all these tips and serving suggestions, it’s time to gather your loved ones around the table and enjoy this delicious twist on traditional cheeseburgers! Happy cooking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Smashed Cheeseburger Tacos recipe is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy delicious meals throughout the week without the hassle of cooking every day. Here’s how to store and prepare them in advance:

Storing Leftovers

Allow the cooked tacos to cool completely before storing.
Place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Consume within 3-4 days for best quality.

Freezing

To freeze, wrap each taco tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
Place the wrapped tacos in a freezer-safe bag or container.
They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months.

Reheating

For best results, reheat tacos in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
Alternatively, heat them on a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes on each side until warmed and crisp.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about Smashed Cheeseburger Tacos that may help you out!

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef for Smashed Cheeseburger Tacos?

Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great lean alternative that works well with this recipe. Just adjust your cooking times slightly since turkey can cook faster than beef.

What toppings can I add to Smashed Cheeseburger Tacos?

Feel free to customize your toppings! Some favorites include diced onions, avocado slices, jalapeños, or even a sprinkle of taco seasoning for extra flavor.

How can I make these Smashed Cheeseburger Tacos healthier?

You can use whole wheat tortillas or substitute ground beef with leaner meats or plant-based alternatives. Adding more veggies as toppings will also enhance nutrition!

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re as excited as I am to try making these Smashed Cheeseburger Tacos! They are not just easy to whip up but also bring a fun twist to your dinner table that everyone will love. Enjoy crafting this delightful dish with your family and friends, and let the smiles come naturally with every bite. Happy cooking!