These Easy Keto Big Mac Smash Burgers are a fun twist on a classic! With juicy beef patties, special sauce, and all the tangy toppings, you won’t miss the bun at all!
It’s hard to resist my own creations, especially when I stack those tasty burgers high. It’s like a party on a plate! I love serving them with a side salad for a complete meal that’s low-carb and yummy!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I recommend an 80/20 beef mix for a juicy burger with good flavor. If you want a leaner option, you can opt for 90/10 ground beef, but you might lose some juiciness.
Cheddar Cheese: Lightly sharp cheddar is perfect here, but feel free to use other cheeses like Swiss, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack for a kick.
Tortillas or Buns: Low-carb tortillas are fantastic, but if you’re keeping it super low-carb, use large lettuce leaves as wraps instead! You could also try almond flour or coconut flour-based buns for more structure.
Special Sauce Ingredients: Mayonnaise forms the base of the special sauce, giving it creaminess. If you’re avoiding eggs, you could use avocado mayo as an alternative. Sugar-free ketchup can be swapped for barbecue sauce if that suits your taste better!
How Do I Get Perfectly Crispy Burger Patties?
Smashing the patties correctly is key to achieving those crispy edges. Use a good amount of pressure and aim for a thin but not too thin patty. Here’s how to do it right:
- Preheat your skillet well. This helps sear the meat and lock in flavorful juices.
- Dropping the beef into the pan and smashing it immediately ensures a good sear. Use a spatula or the bottom of a heavy pan for even pressure.
- Don’t flip too soon! Letting them cook for 2-3 minutes creates a nice crust. Wait until the edges are brown before turning.
Following these tips will give you that delicious, crunchy texture you want in a smash burger!
How to Make Easy Keto Big Mac Smash Burgers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Burgers:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 mix for best flavor and juiciness)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 4 slices cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded iceberg lettuce
- 8 dill pickle slices
- 4 low-carb keto-friendly tortillas or buns (alternatively, large lettuce leaves can be used)
For the Special Sauce:
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon sugar-free ketchup
- 1 teaspoon yellow mustard
- 1 teaspoon white vinegar
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Optional: a pinch of smoked paprika for the sauce
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and another 10 minutes to cook, making a total of around 20 minutes from start to finish. It’s quick and perfect for a busy weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Special Sauce:
In a small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, sugar-free ketchup, yellow mustard, white vinegar, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika (if you’re using it). Stir until it’s well combined, and then set aside. This sauce is what makes these burgers taste like Big Macs!
2. Form and Cook the Patties:
Divide the ground beef into 4 equal portions. Heat a cast-iron skillet or a non-stick pan over medium-high heat. Once hot, take one portion of beef, place it in the pan, and use a spatula to smash it flat into a thin patty. Season with salt and pepper to your taste. Cook for about 2-3 minutes until you see crispy edges forming, then flip the patty over.
3. Add the Cheese:
As soon as you flip the patty, lay a slice of cheddar cheese on top. Allow it to cook for another 2 minutes until the cheese is melty and the burger is fully cooked. Juicy perfection!
4. Warm the Tortillas or Buns:
While the patties are cooking, warm the keto-friendly tortillas or buns in a separate pan or microwave. This makes them easier to work with and helps them hold the fillings better.
5. Assemble the Burgers:
Once your patties are done, take the warmed tortillas or buns and spread a generous layer of your special sauce on the inside. Place one cheese-covered patty on each tortilla. Top it off with some shredded lettuce and 2 slices of dill pickles.
6. Serve Immediately:
Carefully fold the tortilla over the fillings or place the top bun on the burger, and serve your keto Big Mac smash burger warm. They pair wonderfully with a side salad or some crunchy veggies for a complete meal!
Enjoy your delicious, low-carb Big Mac-inspired smash burgers that are packed with flavor and oh-so-satisfying!
FAQ for Easy Keto Big Mac Smash Burgers
Can I Use Leaner Ground Beef?
Yes, you can use 90/10 ground beef if you prefer a leaner option, but keep in mind that you may lose some of the juiciness and flavor. A higher fat content (like 80/20) will give you the best taste and texture!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover smash burgers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave until heated through.
Can I Freeze This Recipe?
Absolutely! You can freeze the cooked patties and special sauce separately. Just make sure they’re in airtight containers or freezer bags. They’ll last up to 3 months in the freezer. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
What If I Don’t Have Keto Tortillas?
If you don’t have keto tortillas, large lettuce leaves work great as a low-carb alternative! You can also use almond flour or coconut flour-based buns if you prefer a more traditional burger experience.
