These Easy Keto Big Mac Smash Burgers are juicy, full of flavor, and perfect for anyone looking to enjoy a classic taste while keeping carbs low. With tasty patties and a special dressing, yum!
Let’s face it; you might just forget about regular burgers after trying these! I love making them on busy nights. They come together quickly, and the kids go crazy for them—what’s not to love?
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I recommend using 80/20 ground beef for that juicy flavor. If you want a leaner option, 90/10 works, but it may be less juicy. You can also use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter take!
American Cheese: It melts beautifully, which is why I love using it. If you’re not a fan, try cheddar or pepper jack for a bit of spice. Just ensure they are keto-friendly!
Keto-Friendly Tortillas: I prefer using low-carb tortillas made from coconut or almond flour. If those aren’t available, lettuce wraps can be a refreshing and crunchy substitute!
Special Sauce Ingredients: For mayo, use avocado oil mayo for a healthier twist. If you don’t have sugar-free ketchup, a bit of tomato paste mixed with sweetener can work too!
How Do I Get the Perfect Smash on My Burgers?
Smashing the burgers is key for getting that crusty, caramelized edge that adds to the flavor. Here’s how to do it well:
- Make sure your skillet is hot! A hot surface cooks the meat quickly and creates a nice sear.
- Use a heavy spatula to press down firmly on the ball of meat right after you place it in the pan. Don’t be shy—this technique gives you that iconic smash burger look!
- Let the meat cook without moving it for 2-3 minutes; this gives it time to develop a good crust. Flip only once to keep it juicy.
Taking your time with the smash will yield a burger that’s crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside!
Easy Keto Big Mac Smash Burgers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Burgers:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend preferred for juiciness)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 4 slices American cheese
- 4 large dill pickle slices
- 1 cup shredded iceberg lettuce
- 4 low-carb keto-friendly tortillas or burger buns (e.g., coconut flour or almond flour tortillas)
For the Special Sauce:
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp sugar-free ketchup
- 1 tbsp yellow mustard
- 1 tbsp dill pickle relish (sugar-free if keto)
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- Pinch of paprika
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and around 10 minutes to cook, making it a quick meal that’s ready in approximately 20 minutes. Perfect for those busy evenings when you still want something tasty!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Special Sauce:
In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, sugar-free ketchup, yellow mustard, dill pickle relish, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika. Whisk them together until smooth. Set this aside because this is what will give your burgers that iconic Big Mac flavor!
2. Prepare the Beef:
Take your ground beef and divide it into 4 equal portions. Roll each portion into a loose ball. This is the meat you’ll smash into those delicious burgers!
3. Heat the Skillet:
Preheat a cast-iron skillet or a large non-stick pan over medium-high heat. You want it really hot to get that lovely sear on the burgers!
4. Smash the Patties:
Place one beef ball onto the hot skillet and immediately smash it down using a spatula or the bottom of a heavy pan until it forms a thin patty. Season with salt and pepper. Repeat this step for the remaining beef balls, cooking in batches if necessary.
5. Cook the Patties:
Let the patties cook for about 2-3 minutes on the first side. Look for the edges to get brown and crispy. Flip them carefully to keep that delicious crust intact.
6. Add the Cheese:
Quickly place a slice of American cheese on each patty and cook for another minute or two until the cheese is perfectly melted, and the burgers are cooked through.
7. Warm the Tortillas:
While the burgers are finishing, you can warm the keto-friendly tortillas or buns in a separate pan or microwave until just softened.
8. Assemble the Burgers:
Spread about 1 tablespoon of your special Big Mac sauce onto each warmed tortilla. Place a cheeseburger patty on top, and then add the dill pickles and shredded iceberg lettuce to finish it off!
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Optionally, you can fold or roll the tortilla around the burger to keep everything together. Serve these yummy smash burgers immediately and enjoy the burst of flavors!
This recipe captures all the classic Big Mac flavors without the carbs, perfect for anyone following a keto or low-carb lifestyle. Enjoy your juicy, cheesy, and tangy smash burgers!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Ground Turkey or Chicken Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be great alternatives if you’re looking for a leaner option. Just keep in mind that the flavor and juiciness might differ slightly, so you may want to add some spices or herbs to enhance the taste.
How Do I Store Leftover Burgers?
If you have leftovers, store the patties and sauce separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. They’ll be good for about 3 days. Reheat the patties on a skillet to maintain their texture, and remember to warm the tortillas fresh to enjoy!
Can I Prep the Sauce Ahead of Time?
Definitely! You can make the special sauce a day or two in advance and store it in the fridge. It’s a time-saver and often tastes even better after the flavors have had time to meld together!
What’s a Good Substitute for the Tortillas?
If you’re out of low-carb tortillas, consider using lettuce wraps for a refreshing, crunchy alternative. This will keep your meal keto-friendly while adding a nice texture contrast to the burgers!
