The moment I took my first bite of a Loaded Bacon Cheeseburger Taco, I felt an explosion of flavors that transported me straight to a summer cookout. Imagine this: warm taco shells cradling juicy ground beef, crispy bacon, and all your favorite cheeseburger toppings. The combination is not just a delightful twist on two beloved comfort foods; it’s a fun and family-friendly meal that can be whipped up in a flash.
After a long day, I love how these tacos come together quickly without sacrificing taste, making them the perfect recipe when you need something satisfying yet simple. Plus, they’re incredibly customizable—whether you’re in the mood for turkey instead of beef, or a little spice from pepper jack cheese, the choice is yours!
If you’re tired of the same old weeknight dinners or looking for a dish that’ll wow your guests at casual gatherings, these Loaded Bacon Cheeseburger Tacos will not disappoint. Let’s dive into this recipe that’s sure to bring smiles to the dinner table!
Why are Loaded Bacon Cheeseburger Tacos a must-try?
Quick and Easy: These tacos come together in just 30 minutes, making them a go-to for busy weeknights.
Flavor Explosion: Each bite delivers a savory, smoky punch with the perfect mix of crispy bacon and melty cheese.
Customizable Perfection: Whether you’re a beef lover or prefer turkey, you can easily adapt this recipe to suit your tastes.
Family Favorites: This dish combines two beloved comfort foods, ensuring everyone at the table is satisfied.
Fun Presentation: Serve them up in soft taco shells for a playful twist that makes dinner feel special.
Leftovers Made Easy: Store leftover ingredients separately for quick reheating and another delightful meal!
Loaded Bacon Cheeseburger Tacos Ingredients
For the Filling
• Ground Beef – Provides a hearty and juicy base for the tacos; can be substituted with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
• Cooked Bacon – Adds crispy texture and smoky flavor; use turkey bacon for a low-fat version.
• Shredded Cheddar Cheese – Offers classic cheeseburger flavor; substitute with pepper jack for a spicier kick or mozzarella for a milder taste.
For the Toppings
• Shredded Lettuce – Contributes freshness and crunch to contrast the savory filling.
• Diced Pickles – Enhances the flavor profile with tanginess; can replace with pickled jalapeños for extra heat.
For the Taco Shells
• Soft Taco Shells – Holds the filling together, providing a comforting hand-held element; warm them before serving for the best texture.
For the Sauce
• Burger Sauce or Mayonnaise – Adds creaminess and rich flavor to finish the tacos; a must-try for that delicious cheeseburger twist in your Loaded Bacon Cheeseburger Tacos!
How to Make Loaded Bacon Cheeseburger Tacos
Brown the Beef: Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook for about 5-7 minutes, breaking it into small crumbles until browned. Drain any excess fat to keep it lean and flavorful.
Warm the Taco Shells: Follow the package instructions to warm your soft taco shells. This step is crucial for enhancing their texture and making them a delight to bite into.
Assemble the Tacos: Start by placing a generous scoop of the cooked ground beef in each taco shell. Top it off with crispy crumbled bacon, shredded cheddar cheese, fresh lettuce, and diced pickles.
Add the Sauce: Drizzle with burger sauce or mayonnaise for that creamy richness that ties all the flavors together. Serve immediately while hot for the best experience!
Optional: Garnish with extra diced pickles or jalapeños for an added kick.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Loaded Bacon Cheeseburger Tacos Variations
Feel free to bring your own twist to these delicious Loaded Bacon Cheeseburger Tacos and make them truly your own!
Ground Turkey: Swap ground beef for turkey to create a lighter, healthier taco option without losing flavor.
Turkey Bacon: Use turkey bacon instead of regular for a lower-fat option that still delivers crispy goodness.
Spicy Cheese: Substitute cheddar with pepper jack cheese for an exciting kick that adds zing to each bite.
Mozzarella Twist: For a milder flavor, try using mozzarella cheese—a creamy and stretchy delight that kids will love!
Jalapeño Kick: Replace diced pickles with pickled jalapeños for a spicy contrast that amps up the flavor profile.
Avocado Addition: Add slices of ripe avocado for a creamy texture that balances the savory elements perfectly.
BBQ Sauce Drizzle: Swap out burger sauce for tangy BBQ sauce to create a sweet and smoky version of these tacos.
Vegetarian Option: For a meatless take, fill your tacos with hearty black beans or grilled vegetables, adding flavor without the protein.
Let your creativity shine and watch your family enjoy these delectable variations!
Expert Tips for Loaded Bacon Cheeseburger Tacos
Choose the Right Meat: Ground beef is classic, but using ground turkey or chicken makes for a lighter option without sacrificing flavor in your Loaded Bacon Cheeseburger Tacos.
Crispy Bacon Hack: Bake your bacon in the oven instead of frying for perfectly crisp results every time—plus it frees up your stovetop for other tasks!
Warm Taco Shells: Always warm your taco shells before filling them to enhance their texture and prevent a soggy bite; this small step will elevate your meal.
Layer Wisely: For the best taste experience, layer your ingredients thoughtfully; start with beef, then bacon, and finish with cheese and toppings for even distribution.
Avoid Sogginess: Assemble tacos right before serving to keep the shells from becoming soggy; enjoy that delightful crunch in every bite!
What to Serve with Loaded Bacon Cheeseburger Tacos?
Pairing these delicious tacos with the right sides can elevate your meal experience. Let’s discover a few delightful accompaniments!
Crispy Potato Wedges: Their earthy flavor and crunchy texture complement the savory richness of the tacos perfectly, creating a satisfying bite.
Fresh Garden Salad: A light salad with vibrant greens and a tangy vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast to the hearty tacos.
Coleslaw: The creamy, tangy crunch of coleslaw balances the mouthwatering bacon and beef, making each meal feel celebratory.
Guacamole and Chips: The creamy avocado dip and crunchy chips offer a fun appetizer that pairs wonderfully with the flavors of your tacos.
Sweet Potato Fries: These add a natural sweetness that contrasts beautifully with the salty and savory notes of your loaded tacos.
Spicy Salsa: A zesty salsa can intensify the flavor profile of your meal. Try something with a kick to ignite your taste buds!
Beer or Refreshing Drink: A cold beer, or even a fruity mocktail, can enhance the festive atmosphere, ensuring a memorable dining experience.
Enjoy building your meal around these Loaded Bacon Cheeseburger Tacos, as the perfect sides make every dish sing!
How to Store and Freeze Loaded Bacon Cheeseburger Tacos
Fridge: Store cooked beef and bacon separately in airtight containers for up to 3 days. This ensures maximum freshness and flavor for easy reheating.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze cooked beef and bacon in airtight bags for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, reheat beef and bacon in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through. Reassemble in taco shells just before serving for that fresh taste.
Assembling Tacos: To maintain the perfect crunch, avoid pre-assembling tacos; keep shells and fillings separate until you’re ready to serve Loaded Bacon Cheeseburger Tacos.
Make Ahead Options
These Loaded Bacon Cheeseburger Tacos are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the ground beef and bacon up to 3 days in advance for a quick weeknight dinner. Cook the beef until browned, then let it cool before storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Similarly, crumble the cooked bacon and keep it refrigerated. For best results, store the taco shells separately to maintain their crispiness. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the beef and bacon in a skillet, warm the taco shells, and assemble each taco with your favorite toppings. This way, you’ll have a satisfying meal ready with minimal effort!
Loaded Bacon Cheeseburger Tacos Recipe FAQs
How do I choose ripe ingredients for my tacos?
Absolutely! Choosing the right ingredients is key to a great taco. For ground meat, fresh and high-quality options are important—look for bright red color without brown spots. For toppings like lettuce, pick crisp, vibrant green leaves; avoid any with dark spots or wilting. If you’re using pickles or jalapeños, opt for firm pieces to ensure crunch.
How should I store leftovers from Loaded Bacon Cheeseburger Tacos?
Very simply! Store cooked ground beef and bacon in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Be sure they cool to room temperature before sealing to avoid condensation. This approach helps maintain their flavor and texture for your next taco night!
Can I freeze the ingredients for Loaded Bacon Cheeseburger Tacos?
Yes, indeed! To freeze, place your cooked beef and bacon in airtight freezer bags, removing as much air as possible. They will keep well for up to 3 months. Thaw them overnight in the fridge when you’re ready to use. Just remember, don’t freeze the taco shells, as they’re best fresh to retain their crunch.
What if my taco shells get soggy when assembling?
Great question! To avoid soggy taco shells, always warm them up before filling to create a protective barrier that helps maintain their crispiness. Assemble your tacos just before you’re ready to eat, keeping the fillings separate until serving. This way, you delight in every crunchy bite!
Are Loaded Bacon Cheeseburger Tacos suitable for dietary restrictions?
Absolutely! If you’re looking to lighten this dish, substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken. For allergies or dietary concerns, you can easily omit the bacon or use turkey bacon as a lower-fat option. Always check for the presence of allergens in sauces and toppings if you’re prepping for someone with allergies.
Indulge in Loaded Bacon Cheeseburger Tacos: A Flavorful Feast
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook for about 5-7 minutes until browned.
- Follow the package instructions to warm your soft taco shells.
- Place a scoop of cooked ground beef in each taco shell. Top with bacon, cheese, lettuce, and pickles.
- Drizzle with burger sauce or mayonnaise and serve immediately.
