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Crispy Smash Burger Tacos with Cheese Shells

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These Crispy Smash Burger Tacos feature juicy smashed beef patties served in crispy, golden cheese shells for a delicious twist on traditional tacos. Quick and easy to make, they combine the best of burger and taco flavors with a satisfying crunch.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend recommended for juiciness)
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • Optional: garlic powder or onion powder
  • 1 ½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese (or a mix of cheddar and Monterey Jack)
  • Shredded lettuce
  • Diced tomatoes
  • Thinly sliced red onions
  • Pickles or jalapeños (optional)
  • Classic burger sauces like ketchup, mustard, or mayo (or a special taco sauce)
  • Butter or oil for cooking (grapeseed oil recommended)

Instructions

  1. Prep your ingredients: shred the cheese and set aside. Dice tomatoes, slice onions, shred lettuce, and prep any other toppings you like. Season the ground beef with salt, pepper, and optional garlic or onion powder, mixing gently to combine without overworking.
  2. Heat your skillet over medium-high heat until hot enough that a drop of water sizzles immediately.
  3. Create cheese shells by sprinkling about ¼ cup (40g) of shredded cheese into small rounds in the hot skillet. Let the cheese melt and bubble until golden and crispy around the edges (2-3 minutes). Flip carefully and crisp the other side for 1-2 minutes. Transfer to a parchment-lined plate and shape quickly if desired.
  4. Divide the beef into 4 equal portions (about 4 oz each). Place one portion in the hot skillet and immediately smash it down firmly with a spatula until about ¼ inch thick. Cook undisturbed for 2-3 minutes until edges are crispy and browned. Flip and cook another 1-2 minutes for medium doneness.
  5. Assemble tacos by placing each burger patty on a cheese shell. Top with shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, onions, and your favorite sauces. Add pickles or jalapeños if desired.
  6. Serve immediately while the cheese shell is still crispy and the burger juicy.

Notes

If cheese shells stick, wait until they naturally loosen from the pan edges before flipping. Avoid overcrowding the skillet to maintain even heat and crust development. Use shredded cheese for best crispy texture. Rest patties briefly off heat before assembling to keep juices locked in. Cheese shells can be made in the oven at 400°F for 5-7 minutes if preferred.

Nutrition

Keywords: smash burger, cheese shell tacos, crispy tacos, easy taco recipe, low carb tacos, keto tacos, ground beef tacos

Find it online: https://emmayum.com/crispy-smash-burger-tacos-with-cheese-shells-easy-recipe-for-taco-lovers/