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–+ servings
Cheesy Smash Tacos

Cheesy Smash Tacos: Crispy, Melty Goodness in Every Bite

Cheesy Smash Tacos combine crispy edges with gooey melted cheese for a quick, family-friendly meal.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 tacos
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Mexican
Calories: 350
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Patties
  • 1.1 lbs Ground Beef A juicy choice; feel free to replace with turkey, chicken, or plant-based grounds.
  • 1 tsp Smoked Paprika Adds a smoky depth; substitute with chili powder for a different kick.
  • 1 tsp Garlic Powder Boosts flavor; fresh garlic is a great alternative.
  • Salt and Black Pepper Essential for seasoning; adjust according to your preference.
For the Cheese
  • 8 slices Cheddar Cheese Melts beautifully; try Monterey Jack for milder or pepper jack for a spicy kick.
For the Tacos
  • 8 small Flour Tortillas Perfect wrap; corn tortillas are great for gluten-free.
  • 2 tbsp Vegetable Oil Prevents sticking; olive oil is a lovely substitute.
For the Toppings
  • 1 Red Onion Thinly sliced; can swap for shallots or white onion.
  • 1 Tomato Diced; any soft, ripe tomato will do.
  • 1 small bunch Iceberg Lettuce Shredded; romaine or spinach can be used.
  • Pickled Jalapeños To taste, optional.
  • 3.5 oz Sour Cream Optional for serving; consider Greek yogurt.
For the Sauce
  • 2 tbsp Mayonnaise Forms base of creamy sauce; use dairy-free alternatives for lighter.
  • 1 tbsp Ketchup Adds sweetness; replace with BBQ sauce for twist.
  • 1 tsp Hot Sauce Optional; any favorite hot sauces work well!

Equipment

  • Skillet
  • Spatula
  • Cutting Board
  • knife

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Begin by gathering all your ingredients; slice the red onion and dice the tomato while shredding the iceberg lettuce. Warm the flour tortillas in a dry skillet over medium heat for about 30 seconds on each side until pliable.
  2. In a large skillet, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Form the ground beef into thin patties, about ½-inch thick, and press them into the hot skillet. Cook for 3-4 minutes until browned.
  3. Once the patties are browned, place a slice of cheddar cheese on each patty. Press a warm tortilla over the cheese, allowing it to melt.
  4. Flip each taco using a spatula, allowing the tortilla to pan-fry against the skillet. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until golden brown.
  5. Remove the crispy tacos from the skillet and load with red onion, tomato, and shredded lettuce. Drizzle with the mayo-ketchup mix and add jalapeños or hot sauce.
  6. Serve your Cheesy Smash Tacos hot, with remaining toppings on the side for customization.

Nutrition

Serving: 1tacoCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 22gFat: 18gSaturated Fat: 8gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 60mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 450mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 800IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 2mg

Notes

These tacos are best enjoyed fresh and warm. Use the right heat and keep patties thin for best results. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days.

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