the ultimate easy outdoor dinner
Cooking outside with little ones is a total game-changer—less mess, less stress, and way more fun! As a mom of four, I’m always looking for quick and delicious meals that everyone will actually eat, and these smash burger tacos check all the boxes. They’re juicy, cheesy, and packed with flavor, making them a hit from my husband all the way down to our toddler.
The best part? This recipe comes together in no time! With minimal prep and just a few minutes on the griddle, you’ve got a crowd-pleasing meal that’s perfect for an easy family dinner or entertaining a group. Whether you’re cooking on a Blackstone griddle, cast iron skillet, or flat-top grill, these tacos bring all the fun of a smash burger with a crispy tortilla twist.
If you love quick weeknight dinners, easy grilling recipes, or just need a meal that keeps the whole family happy, this one’s for you. We love it, and I know you will too!
Smash Burger Tacos
Servings: 4 (makes about 8 tacos)
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Ingredients:
- 1 lb grass-fed beef
- 1 package small tortilla shells (about 3” across; we use Mission Zero Net Carb tortillas)
- 4 slices thinly sliced Muenster cheese
- 1 cup shredded provolone cheese
- 1 cup shredded lettuce
- ½ cup bread & butter pickles
- ½ cup Thousand Island dressing
- Avocado oil (for seasoning the grill)
Instructions:
- Form Meatballs: Shape the ground beef into meatballs slightly larger than a golf ball.
- Heat the Grill: Preheat your griddle or pan over medium-high heat and lightly oil it with avocado oil.
- Smash & Grill:
- Place a meatball on the griddle.
- Top with a slice of Muenster cheese and then a tortilla.
- Smash the meatball flat for about 5 seconds to spread it out.
- Grill for 3 minutes on one side.
- Flip & Melt:
- Flip the taco over so the tortilla is now on the bottom.
- Sprinkle with shredded provolone cheese.
- Grill for another 2-3 minutes until the cheese melts and the tortilla is lightly crispy.
- Assemble:
- Add shredded lettuce, bread & butter pickles, and Thousand Island dressing. You could make burger sauce but Thousand Island is quick and easy.
- Fold and enjoy!
Tips:
- Press the meat thin so the tacos fold easily.
- Use shredded cheese for better melting.
- Avocado oil is great for seasoning the griddle and preventing sticking.
