Loaded Bacon Cheeseburger Tacos are the perfect mash-up of two comfort food favorites: the juicy, cheesy goodness of a classic bacon cheeseburger wrapped in a crispy taco shell. These tacos are packed with seasoned ground beef, crispy bacon, melted cheddar cheese, and all the classic burger toppings, making them an irresistible choice for a weeknight dinner or game day spread. They’re quick to prepare, easy to customize, and guaranteed to be a hit with both kids and adults.
Ingredients
8 taco shells
6 slices bacon
1 lb ground beef
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup shredded lettuce
1 tomato, diced
1 small onion, diced
½ cup sliced pickles
1 packet taco seasoning
Instructions
Step 1 – Cook the Bacon
Place a large skillet over medium heat and arrange the bacon slices in a single layer. Allow them to cook slowly, turning occasionally, until they are crisp and golden brown. This usually takes about 6–8 minutes, depending on the thickness of the bacon. Once done, transfer the bacon to a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess grease. Let it cool slightly, then chop it into bite-sized pieces.
Step 2 – Prepare the Ground Beef
In the same skillet, using the rendered bacon fat for extra flavor, add the ground beef. Use a wooden spoon or spatula to break it apart into crumbles as it cooks. Continue cooking over medium heat until the beef is fully browned and no pink remains, about 6–7 minutes. Drain any excess fat from the skillet to prevent the tacos from becoming greasy.
Step 3 – Season the Meat
Sprinkle the taco seasoning evenly over the cooked beef. Add the recommended amount of water according to the seasoning packet instructions, usually around ⅔ cup. Stir well to combine, ensuring every bite of beef is coated with seasoning. Reduce the heat to low and let the beef simmer for 3–4 minutes so the flavors can blend together. Keep warm until ready to assemble the tacos.
Step 4 – Warm the Taco Shells
Follow the instructions on your taco shell package. Most taco shells can be warmed in the oven for a few minutes at 350°F (175°C) or microwaved for 30–40 seconds. Warming them enhances the flavor and makes them less likely to crack when filling.
Step 5 – Assemble the Tacos
Begin by adding a generous layer of the hot, seasoned beef into each taco shell. Immediately sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the beef so it starts to melt slightly from the heat. Next, add chopped bacon, followed by shredded lettuce for freshness. Top with diced tomato, diced onion, and sliced pickles for that classic cheeseburger feel.
Step 6 – Serve with Sauces
To finish, drizzle ketchup, mustard, or your favorite burger sauce over the toppings. Serve the tacos right away so the shells stay crisp and the cheese remains perfectly melted.
Tips for the Best Bacon Cheeseburger Tacos
For extra crunch, use freshly toasted hard taco shells. If you prefer a softer bite, opt for flour tortillas warmed on a skillet. To add more flavor, mix a tablespoon of ketchup and mustard into the cooked beef for a tangy burger-inspired taste. You can also swap cheddar for American, Swiss, or pepper jack cheese for a unique twist. Fresh toppings make all the difference, so choose crisp lettuce and ripe tomatoes for the best results.
Serving Suggestions
These tacos pair well with oven-baked fries, sweet potato wedges, or a simple green salad. For drinks, try classic sodas, milkshakes, or even a cold iced tea for a refreshing touch. If serving for a crowd, set up a taco bar with a variety of toppings so everyone can customize their own bacon cheeseburger taco to their liking.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
It’s fast, fun, and combines two comfort food classics into one. The savory beef and bacon contrast beautifully with the fresh veggies, while the crunchy taco shell adds texture. Plus, it’s easy to adapt for picky eaters—just adjust the toppings to suit everyone’s taste. Whether you’re hosting a casual dinner or looking for something different on taco night, these Loaded Bacon Cheeseburger Tacos are sure to become a favorite.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these tacos ahead of time?
It’s best to prepare the beef and toppings ahead, but assemble the tacos right before serving to keep the shells from getting soggy.
What kind of cheese works best?
Cheddar is classic, but you can try American, Swiss, or pepper jack for different flavors.
Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes! Ground turkey works well, just season it a bit more for extra flavor.
Conclusion
Loaded Bacon Cheeseburger Tacos deliver the best of both worlds—rich burger flavors and the handheld fun of tacos. They’re a versatile dish perfect for busy nights or special gatherings. Make them once, and you’ll find yourself craving them again and again. Visit our website for more delicious recipes just like this one.