These Easy Keto Big Mac Smash Burgers are a tasty twist on a classic! They’ve got juicy beef, cheese, and all the fixings, minus the carbs!
Who knew enjoying a burger could be so simple and guilt-free? I love stacking mine high with lettuce and pickles. It’s like a party on a plate! 🎉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I recommend using ground beef that’s 80% lean for juicy smash burgers. If you’re looking for a leaner option, 90% lean works too, but the burgers may be less juicy. You can also substitute with ground turkey or chicken if you want a lighter choice.
Cheddar Cheese: Cheddar gives a delicious sharpness. If you’re not a cheddar fan, feel free to use American cheese for a classic taste or mozzarella for a milder flavor. Vegan cheese can also be a good substitute for a dairy-free option.
Keto Tortillas: Low-carb tortillas are perfect for holding everything together. If you can’t find them, try lettuce wraps instead for a totally carb-free base, or make your own almond flour tortillas for a great keto alternative.
Special Sauce Ingredients: This sauce makes the burger! You can customize it: swap the mayonnaise for Greek yogurt for a lighter option, or try adding a splash of hot sauce if you like a bit of spice!
How Do You Get the Perfect Smash Burger?
Smashing the burgers is key to getting that crispy texture! Here’s how to do it right:
- Start with a hot skillet. This is crucial for getting that nice brown crust!
- After placing the beef ball in the skillet, gently press down with a spatula. The thinner you can get it, the crispier the edges will be.
- Don’t worry about forming a perfect patty! The irregular shape gives it character and more surface area for crispiness.
- Keep an eye on cooking time. The first side needs about 2-3 minutes until golden brown, then flip and add cheese to melt!
Enjoy the satisfying crunch and juicy beef with each bite of your smash burger!
How to Make Easy Keto Big Mac Smash Burgers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Burgers:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 for juicy burgers)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 4 slices cheddar cheese
- 8 large dill pickle slices
- 1 cup shredded iceberg lettuce
- 4 low-carb tortillas or keto-friendly flatbreads (to mimic the Big Mac bun)
For the Big Mac-style Special Sauce:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp sugar-free ketchup
- 1 tbsp yellow mustard
- 1 tbsp minced dill pickle or sweet relish
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- Salt to taste
Time Needed:
This recipe will take about 15 minutes to prepare and cook. It’s quick and perfect for a weeknight dinner! And you can have those delicious big flavors ready in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Special Sauce:
In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, sugar-free ketchup, yellow mustard, minced dill pickle or relish, garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of salt. Mix everything together until smooth. Cover and refrigerate until you’re ready to use it. This sauce is the star of your burgers!
2. Heat Up the Pan:
Grab a cast-iron skillet or a non-stick pan and set it over medium-high heat. You want it nice and hot for the smash burgers to get that crispy edge!
3. Form the Beef Balls:
Take your ground beef and divide it into 4 equal portions. Roll each portion into a loose ball. This will help create that juicy smash burger!
4. Smash the Burgers:
Place one beef ball on the hot skillet and, using a spatula, smash it down firmly to form a thin patty. Season it generously with salt and pepper. Let it cook for 2-3 minutes until the edges are beautifully brown and crispy.
5. Flip and Melt:
Carefully flip the patty over. Place a slice of cheddar cheese right on top. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until the cheese is melted and the patty is cooked to your liking. Isn’t that cheese just melting perfection?
6. Warm the Tortillas:
While the patties are cooking, warm up your low-carb tortillas or flatbreads in another pan or in the microwave. Heat them just until they are flexible and lightly toasted on the edges.
7. Assemble the Burgers:
Take one warm tortilla and spread about 1-2 tablespoons of the special sauce on it. Add a cheesy beef patty on top, followed by a layer of pickle slices and a handful of shredded iceberg lettuce.
8. Complete Your Burger:
If you like, add another small dollop of special sauce on top of the lettuce, then place a second warm tortilla on top to create a “bun.” Press down gently to hold everything together.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Dig into your delicious, keto-friendly Big Mac Smash Burger immediately! Enjoy the layers of flavor in every bite, combining all the iconic tastes of a Big Mac without the carbs!
These burgers are a creative way to stay on your keto journey while satisfying those burger cravings. Enjoy your cooking!
FAQ for Easy Keto Big Mac Smash Burgers
Can I Use Ground Turkey or Chicken Instead of Beef?
Yes, you can definitely use ground turkey or chicken! Just be aware that these meats tend to be leaner, so you might want to add a bit of olive oil or seasoning to keep the burgers moist and flavorful.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover burgers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If possible, keep the patties and tortillas separate to maintain their textures. You can reheat them on the stovetop or microwave until warmed through.
Can I Make the Special Sauce Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the special sauce up to 3 days in advance. Just keep it in an airtight container in the refrigerator until you’re ready to assemble your smash burgers.
What Other Toppings Can I Use?
Feel free to get creative! You can add sliced tomatoes, onions, or avocado for extra flavor and nutrition. If you like it spicy, try adding jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the special sauce for a kick!
