Taco Burgers

What Are Taco Burgers?

Taco burgers are seasoned ground beef patties cooked like traditional hamburgers but topped with classic taco ingredients like salsa, guacamole, cheese, and tortilla chips. These just happen to be the brain-child of my taco-obsessed kid, Jake. And it really was a great idea!

Why You’ll Love This Taco Burger Recipe

• Ready in under 30 minutes! Love a quick and easy weeknight dinner that is totally family-friendly!
• Customizable for picky eaters. That’s why these burgers are a hit in my house. Burger toppings are totally customizable and so are tacos. Kids love to be able to choose their own adventure when it’s dinnertime, it gives them a little autonomy in the process. And anything to make meals easier is a win for me!
• Great for grilling or stovetop cooking. Burgers are great grilled when the weather permits, but they can always be done on the stovetop too!
• Big taco flavor with minimal effort!

Ingredients for Taco Burgers

Make sure to scroll down to the bottom of this post to the recipe card for the full ingredient list with measurements.

For the burger patties:

• Ground beef (80/20 or 85/15 recommended)
• Taco seasoning
• Hamburger buns

Taco burger toppings:

• Sliced cheese (cheddar, Colby Jack, or pepper jack)
• Guacamole or sliced avocado
• Salsa or pico de gallo
• Shredded lettuce
• Sour cream
• Tortilla chips (crushed for crunch!)

Optional toppings:

• Sliced jalapeños
• Diced onions
• Tomatoes
• Hot sauce

Pro tip: Set up a topping bar so everyone can build their own taco burger!

How to Make This Taco Burger Recipe

It’s basically an idea I’m selling here, rather than a recipe. But I have found that 2 pounds of ground beef mixed with 1 packet of Taco seasoning is the perfect amount for these burgers. It gives you lightly seasoned meat…enough to taste the taco, but not enough to overpower.

In a bowl, mix ground beef with taco seasoning until just combined.

Don’t over-mix—this keeps your burgers tender and juicy.

2. Form the patties

Divide the meat into equal portions and shape into patties.

• Press a small indent in the center
• This prevents the burgers from puffing up while cooking

Cook the burgers

Cook on a grill or stovetop over medium-high heat:

• 4–5 minutes per side
• Cook until desired doneness
• Add cheese during the last minute to melt

4. Toast the buns

Lightly toast buns on the grill or in a skillet for best flavor and texture.

5. Assemble your taco burgers

Set up a little station with all of the toppings and let everyone build their own burger!

My kiddo’s burger was up first with guac, salsa and chips…

Tips for the BEST Taco Burgers

• Use the right beef. 80/20 is the best blend for juicy and flavorful burgers. Lean beef can dry out quickly.
• Don’t overdo the seasoning. Taco seasoning should enhance, not overpower.
• Melt cheese the right way! No one likes cold cheese on their cheeseburger! Add in on during the last minute and cover briefly.
• Balance textures: The perfect taco burger has juicy meat, creamy toppings (guacamole, sour cream), and crunch from the lettuce and chips!
• Always toast your buns! It makes such a huge difference!

Easy Taco Burger Variations

• Spicy Taco Burgers: Add jalapeños or chipotle mayo
• California Taco Burgers: Add avocado, pico, and fresh lime juice
• Cheesy Taco Burgers: Mix shredded cheese into the beef before cooking
• Turkey or Chicken Taco Burgers: Swap ground beef for a lighter option

FAQs About Taco Burgers

Can I grill taco burgers?

Yes! Taco burgers are perfect for grilling—just cook over medium-high heat until done.

What cheese is best for taco burgers?

Cheddar, Colby Jack, or pepper jack all melt well and complement taco flavors.

Can I make taco burgers ahead of time?

You can prep the patties ahead, but cook them fresh for the best flavor and texture.

He was so happy with his “invention”!

What to Serve with Taco Burgers

• Tortilla chips and salsa
• French fries or sweet potato fries
• Mexican street corn
• Simple green salad