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Savory Smash Burger Tacos with Creamy Queso Drizzle

savory smash burger tacos - featured image

These savory smash burger tacos combine crispy beef patties with fresh taco toppings and a smooth, slightly spicy queso drizzle for a quick and satisfying meal perfect for taco night or game day.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb ground beef, 80/20 blend
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tbsp vegetable or canola oil
  • 8 small flour or corn tortillas (6-inch size)
  • 1 cup shredded iceberg lettuce
  • ½ cup diced tomatoes, seeded
  • ¼ cup diced red onion (optional)
  • Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
  • 1 cup shredded white cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese
  • ½ cup whole milk
  • 1 tbsp butter
  • 1 tsp chili powder
  • ½ tsp smoked paprika (optional)
  • 1 small jalapeño, seeded and finely chopped
  • Salt to taste
  • Optional toppings: pickled jalapeños, avocado slices or guacamole, sour cream or crema, hot sauce of choice

Instructions

  1. In a bowl, gently season the ground beef with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Avoid over-mixing to keep the patties tender.
  2. Heat a large heavy-bottom skillet or cast-iron pan over medium-high heat and add the oil. Let it get hot and shimmering, about 2-3 minutes.
  3. Divide the beef into 8 equal portions (about 2 oz each). Roll each into a loose ball.
  4. Place a ball onto the skillet and use a sturdy metal spatula to press down firmly until the patty is about ¼-inch thick. Cook for 2-3 minutes until edges are crispy and brown.
  5. Carefully flip each patty and cook another 1-2 minutes until fully cooked but still juicy. Remove from heat and set aside. Repeat with remaining patties.
  6. Use tongs to quickly warm tortillas on the skillet for about 15 seconds per side until pliable and slightly toasted.
  7. In a small saucepan over low heat, melt the butter. Add chopped jalapeño and cook for 1 minute to soften.
  8. Slowly add shredded cheese and milk, stirring constantly until smooth and creamy.
  9. Stir in chili powder, smoked paprika, and salt to taste. Keep warm on very low heat, stirring occasionally.
  10. Assemble tacos by laying a warm tortilla flat, adding a smashed burger patty, then topping with shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, and red onion if using.
  11. Drizzle generously with creamy queso sauce and garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and optional toppings like pickled jalapeños or avocado slices.
  12. Serve immediately while the burger is crispy and the queso is warm and gooey.

Notes

Use a heavy skillet and press patties thin for crispy edges. Do not press patties after flipping to retain juiciness. Melt cheese slowly over low heat to avoid clumps. Warm tortillas just before assembling to keep them flexible. For dairy-free or vegetarian options, substitute ingredients accordingly.

Nutrition

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