These Easy Keto Big Mac Smash Burgers are a fun twist on the classic fast-food favorite. They have juicy beef patties topped with tasty cheese, pickles, and special sauce, all without the buns!
I love whipping these up for a quick dinner. You get all the flavors you love in a simple way—plus, the smash technique gives them that nice crispy edge. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I recommend using 80/20 for juicy and flavorful patties. If you’re looking for a leaner option, 90/10 works too, but remember it may be less juicy.
Cheddar Cheese: Cheddar adds that classic flavor. You could substitute with Swiss or pepper jack for a different taste or spice level.
Low-Carb Tortillas: These are perfect for keeping the carbs low. If you can’t find them, consider using lettuce wraps or cauliflower tortillas as alternatives.
Picksles: Dill pickles are traditional, but feel free to use sweet pickles or relish if that’s your flavor preference.
Special Sauce: If you’re out of certain ingredients, you can replace sugar-free ketchup with tomato sauce sweetened with a low-calorie sweetener. Use what you have!
What’s the Best Way to Smash the Patties?
Smashing the patties is key to getting that delicious crispy edge. Here’s how to do it right:
- Make sure the skillet is hot before adding the beef balls. This helps to sear the meat immediately.
- Use a heavy spatula or burger press. Place it directly on top of the beef ball and press down hard to flatten it into a thin patty.
- Don’t squish it too much—just flatten enough to cook evenly. The goal is to create nice edges that caramelize.
This technique really brings out the flavors and gives your burger a satisfying texture. Enjoy making these tasty smash burgers!
Easy Keto Big Mac Smash Burgers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Burgers:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 for juiciness)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 4 slices cheddar cheese
- 8 slices dill pickles
- 1 cup shredded iceberg lettuce
- 4 low-carb tortillas or keto-friendly wraps (for bun substitute)
For the Special Sauce:
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp sugar-free ketchup
- 1 tbsp mustard
- 1 tsp white vinegar
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
Time Needed:
This recipe takes about 10 minutes for preparation and around 10-12 minutes to cook. In total, you should be enjoying these delicious burgers in about 20-25 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Special Sauce:
Start by making the special sauce. In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sugar-free ketchup, mustard, white vinegar, onion powder, garlic powder, and smoked paprika until everything is well combined. This creamy, tangy sauce is just like the classic Big Mac sauce!
2. Cook the Patties:
Next, divide the ground beef into 4 equal portions and shape each portion loosely into a ball. Heat a large non-stick skillet or griddle over medium-high heat. Once hot, place the beef balls on the skillet.
3. Smash and Season:
Immediately smash each beef ball flat with a heavy spatula or burger press until thin. Season the patties with salt and pepper. Cook for about 2-3 minutes until browned and crispy on the edges. This is where the flavor builds!
4. Add Cheese:
Carefully flip the patties over, then add a slice of cheddar cheese on top of each patty. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, allowing the cheese to melt and the burger to finish cooking through. Yum!
5. Prepare the Tortillas:
In the meantime, warm the low-carb tortillas in a separate pan or microwave until soft and pliable. You’ll be using these as your burger “buns!” Once warmed, fold them to create a taco-like shape.
6. Assemble Your Burgers:
It’s assembly time! Spread a spoonful of the special sauce on the inside of each tortilla “bun.” Top with a cheesy beef patty, add 2 pickle slices, and a handful of shredded lettuce. Feel free to add an extra dollop of sauce if desired!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Once assembled, serve your keto-friendly Big Mac smash burgers immediately and enjoy the flavors of your favorite fast-food treat—guilt-free!
This recipe captures all the classic Big Mac flavors but keeps it low-carb and simple. The smash technique creates delicious, crispy patty edges for a superb burger experience. Happy cooking!
FAQ for Easy Keto Big Mac Smash Burgers
Can I Use Leaner Ground Beef?
Yes, you can use leaner ground beef (like 90/10), but keep in mind that the burgers may be less juicy. Adding a little bit of butter or olive oil while cooking can help maintain moisture.
What Can I Use Instead of Low-Carb Tortillas?
If you can’t find low-carb tortillas, consider using large lettuce leaves, such as Romaine or iceberg, to wrap your burger. This keeps it low-carb and fresh!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in a skillet over medium heat, adding a little extra cheese if desired to freshen them up!
Can I Make the Special Sauce Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the special sauce in advance and store it in the fridge for up to a week. Just give it a good stir before using!
