These Easy Keto Big Mac Smash Burgers are a tasty twist on the classic! With juicy patties, cheese, and all the Big Mac flavors, they’re sure to please anyone hungry for a burger.
What’s even better? You can enjoy them without the buns! I love piling on the toppings and that special sauce. Trust me, you’ll want to make extras for later! 🍔
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I recommend using an 80/20 blend for the best balance of flavor and juiciness. If you’re looking for a leaner option, 85/15 works well too, but the burgers might be a bit drier. You could also use turkey or chicken for a lighter burger!
American Cheese: This cheese melts beautifully and gives that classic burger flavor. If you’re not a fan, cheddar or pepper jack can be great substitutes, adding a nice twist to the taste!
Low-Carb Tortillas: These take the place of traditional buns, keeping it keto-friendly. If you can’t find low-carb tortillas or wraps, lettuce leaves can be a great alternative for a lighter version!
Pickles: Dill pickles give that tangy crunch typical of a Big Mac. If you prefer sweeter notes, you could swap in bread and butter pickles or use sliced jalapeños for a spicy kick.
What’s the Trick to Creating Perfect Smash Burgers?
Smash burgers are all about achieving that crispy crust while keeping them juicy. Here’s how to do it right:
- Start with room temperature ground beef for even cooking.
- Use a hot skillet or griddle – this helps create that wonderful sear.
- Don’t be afraid to smash! Place the beef ball on the hot surface and press down hard with a spatula. This maximizes surface contact.
- Cook until nice and brown on one side (about 2-3 minutes), then flip and add cheese immediately to help it melt.
Following these steps will help you achieve those delicious, burger shop worthy smash burgers right at home! Enjoy your cooking adventure!
Easy Keto Big Mac Smash Burgers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Burgers:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend for juiciness)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 4 slices American cheese
- 4 low-carb tortillas or keto wraps (used as buns)
- 1 cup shredded iceberg lettuce
- 8 dill pickle slices
For the Special Sauce:
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tbsp sugar-free ketchup
- 1 tbsp yellow mustard
- 1 tbsp finely chopped dill pickles or relish
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp white vinegar
- Salt and pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes of prep time and around 10-12 minutes of cooking time. In total, you’re looking at about 25-30 minutes from start to finish for these delicious keto-friendly burgers!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Special Sauce:
In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, sugar-free ketchup, yellow mustard, finely chopped dill pickles or relish, garlic powder, onion powder, white vinegar, and season with salt and pepper. Mix everything together until well combined, then cover and refrigerate while you prepare the burgers. This will enhance the flavors!
2. Form the Patties:
Next, take your ground beef and divide it into 4 equal portions. Gently roll each portion into a ball, but don’t overwork the meat. You want them to remain tender. Set these aside for cooking.
3. Cook the Patties:
Preheat a large skillet or griddle over medium-high heat. When it’s hot, place each meatball onto the surface, and using a spatula, smash each ball down to form thin patties. Cook them for about 2-3 minutes on the first side until you see a nice browned crust forming.
4. Flip and Add Cheese:
Carefully flip each patty using the spatula and immediately place a slice of American cheese on top of each one. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until the cheese is melty and the patties are cooked through.
5. Warm the Tortillas:
While the patties are finishing up, take your low-carb tortillas and warm them in a separate pan or microwave for just a few seconds. This will make them more pliable and easier to fold.
6. Assemble the Burgers:
Now it’s time to put it all together! Spread a generous spoonful of your special sauce on each tortilla. Place a cheesy burger patty on top, followed by a couple of dill pickle slices and a handful of shredded lettuce. If you like, drizzle a little more sauce on top for extra flavor.
7. Serve Immediately:
Fold the tortilla around the fillings like a taco and serve hot. Enjoy your delicious and keto-friendly Big Mac Smash Burgers! Perfect for satisfying those burger cravings without the carbs!
There you go! A fun and tasty way to enjoy a lower-carb version of a classic Big Mac. Enjoy your cooking!
FAQ: Easy Keto Big Mac Smash Burgers
Can I Use Ground Turkey or Chicken Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the ground beef. Just be aware that they may need a little extra seasoning and moisture, as they are leaner. Consider adding a tablespoon of olive oil or using a blend that contains some fat to keep the burgers juicy.
How Do I Store Leftover Burgers?
Store any leftover burgers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them on a skillet over low heat until warmed through, or you can microwave them briefly if you’re in a hurry. Just be careful not to overcook!
Can I Make the Special Sauce Ahead of Time?
Definitely! The special sauce can be made up to 3 days in advance. Just keep it stored in an airtight container in the fridge. The flavors will meld together beautifully as it sits!
What Can I Use Instead of Low-Carb Tortillas?
If you can’t find low-carb tortillas, you might consider using large lettuce leaves as a wrap. Romaine or butter lettuce works well and keeps the dish light! You could also try almond flour tortillas for a low-carb option if available.
