1. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
2. Add the chopped onion, red bell pepper, and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook until the vegetables are softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in the taco seasoning and salsa, and let the mixture simmer for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
4. Preheat your broiler. Spoon the beef mixture onto the bottom halves of the hamburger buns.
5. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the beef mixture.
6. Place the buns on a baking sheet and broil until the cheese is melted and bubbly, about 2-3 minutes.
7. Remove from the oven and top with sliced black olives and chopped cilantro.
8. Place the top halves of the buns on the sandwiches and serve warm.
Variations & Tips
For a lighter version, you can use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef. If you have picky eaters, consider offering a mild salsa and cheese option, and let them add their own toppings. You can also add some heat by including diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce in the beef mixture. For a vegetarian version, substitute the meat with cooked lentils or a plant-based ground meat alternative. Don’t forget to experiment with different cheeses, like pepper jack or Monterey Jack, for a unique flavor twist.