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Smashburger Tacos with Caramelized Onions & Creamy Burger Sauce

smashburger tacos with caramelized onions and creamy burger sauce recipe

Ingredients

There’s something magical about combining two comfort-food favorites into one meal. These Smashburger Tacos are crispy, cheesy, saucy, and packed with flavor in every bite. Thin beef patties are smashed directly onto tortillas, topped with melty Cache Valley Creamery cheese, then layered with caramelized onions, shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, and a creamy burger sauce that tastes just like your favorite diner burger but in taco form! Perfect for busy weeknights, game day spreads, or backyard family dinners.

For the Smashburger Tacos

  • 1 ½ lbs ground beef (80/20 recommended)
  • 8 small flour tortillas
  • 2 cups shredded Cache Valley Creamery cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup shredded lettuce
  • 1 cup diced tomatoes
  • Salt & pepper, to taste
  • 1 tbsp burger seasoning (optional)

For the Caramelized Onions

  • 2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
  • 2 tbsp butter
  • Pinch of salt

For the Burger Sauce

  • ½ cup mayonnaise
  • 2 tbsp ketchup
  • 1 tbsp mustard
  • 1 tbsp pickle relish
  • ½ tsp garlic powder
  • ½ tsp smoked paprika
  • Black pepper, to taste

Steps

  • Step 1: Caramelize the Onions – In a skillet over medium-low heat, melt butter and add sliced onions with a pinch of salt. Cook slowly for 25–30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until deeply golden and caramelized. Set aside.
  • Step 2: Make the Burger Sauce – In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, ketchup, mustard, relish, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and black pepper until smooth. Refrigerate until ready to serve.
  • Step 3: Prep the Beef – Divide ground beef into 8 loosely packed balls. Place one tortilla on a flat surface and press a beef ball thinly across the tortilla, almost to the edges. Season with salt, pepper, and burger seasoning.
  • Step 4: Smash & Cook – Heat a large griddle or cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat. Place the tortilla beef-side down onto the hot surface. Smash gently for maximum contact and cook 2–3 minutes until crispy. Flip the tortilla over, then immediately top with shredded Cache Valley Creamery cheese. Cook another 1–2 minutes until melted.
  • Step 5: Assemble – Top each taco with caramelized onions, shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, and a drizzle of burger sauce. Serve hot with extra sauce on the side.

Notes

Tips for the Best Smashburger Tacos

  • Use a hot cast-iron skillet for the best crispy burger edges.
  • Freshly shredded Cache Valley Creamery cheese melts beautifully and gives these tacos that rich, creamy bite.
  • Keep toppings cold and fresh for the perfect contrast against the hot crispy taco.
  • Add pickles or jalapeños for extra flavor.

Serving Ideas

These pair perfectly with:

  • Crispy fries
  • Sweet potato wedges
  • Pickle spears
  • Fresh lemonade or root beer floats

Final Bite

These Smashburger Tacos bring together everything people love about burgers and tacos in one ridiculously satisfying meal. Crispy beef, gooey cheese, sweet onions, cool toppings, and that creamy burger sauce make every bite unforgettable. Once you make these, taco night may never be the same again.

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Author Bio

Eric Taylor

Eric Taylor

Eric is a husband, girl dad, and content creator who believes some of the best family memories are made in the kitchen. He loves creating easy, flavorful recipes that bring people together without adding stress to busy life. In his house you’ll find comfort food, fun twists on family favorites, and meals made for real life with kids.

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