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Flavorful Smash Burger Tacos with Caramelized Onion and Queso

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These smash burger tacos combine crispy, thinly smashed beef patties with sweet caramelized onions and creamy queso for a quick, flavorful meal perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound (450g) 80/20 ground beef
  • 1 large yellow onion, thinly sliced
  • 1 cup (100g) queso fresco or queso blanco, crumbled
  • 8–10 small corn or flour tortillas, warmed
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil or butter
  • Optional toppings: fresh cilantro, sliced jalapeños, lime wedges, hot sauce

Instructions

  1. Caramelize the onions: Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil or butter over medium-low heat in a skillet. Add thinly sliced onions and a pinch of salt. Cook slowly, stirring occasionally, until deep golden brown and fragrant, about 20-25 minutes. Add a splash of water if onions stick. Set aside.
  2. Prepare the beef: In a bowl, gently mix ground beef with garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Avoid overworking the meat.
  3. Form and smash patties: Heat skillet over medium-high heat and add remaining oil or butter. Divide beef into 8 equal portions (~2 ounces each). Place a portion in the hot skillet and immediately press down firmly with a spatula or burger press to create a thin patty. Cook 2-3 minutes until edges are browned and crispy.
  4. Flip and add queso: Flip each patty carefully and cook 1-2 more minutes. Sprinkle crumbled queso over patties to soften and melt.
  5. Warm tortillas: While patties finish cooking, warm tortillas on stove over low heat or wrapped in a damp towel in microwave for 30 seconds.
  6. Assemble tacos: Place 1 or 2 patties on each tortilla, top with caramelized onions and optional toppings like cilantro, jalapeños, and a squeeze of lime.
  7. Serve immediately for best crispy and creamy experience.

Notes

Ensure skillet is hot before smashing patties to get a crispy crust. Do not overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if needed. Caramelized onions can be made ahead and stored refrigerated for up to 2 days. For dairy-free, substitute queso with vegan cheese or avocado. For gluten-free, use corn tortillas.

Nutrition

Keywords: smash burger tacos, caramelized onion, queso fresco, quick dinner, easy tacos, ground beef tacos, crispy burger patties

Find it online: https://fizzlefork.com/flavorful-smash-burger-tacos-recipe-with-caramelized-onion-and-queso-easy-guide/