These Easy Keto Big Mac Smash Burgers bring the taste of a classic fast-food favorite to your kitchen! Juicy beef patties are smashed to perfection and topped with all your favorite fixings.
Who doesn’t love a burger that’s low on carbs but big on flavor? I often pair mine with a side of crispy veggies for crunch. You’ll feel good enjoying this treat without the guilt! 🍔
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: Use 80/20 for juicy burgers. If you’re looking for alternatives, ground turkey or chicken can work but may be less flavorful. You can also use plant-based ground meat for a vegetarian option.
Tortillas/Lettuce Wraps: Low-carb tortillas are perfect for this recipe. If you can’t find them, large lettuce leaves like romaine or butter lettuce also make excellent wraps. They’re fresh and crunchy!
American Cheese: This cheese melts beautifully, but you can swap it for cheddar or mozzarella. Just make sure whatever cheese you use melts well for that gooey burger experience.
Big Mac Sauce: If you’re short on time or ingredients, store-bought sugar-free condiment options can save the day! You can also play with spices to find your favorite flavor balance.
How Do I Make Perfectly Cooked Smash Burgers?
Cooking smash burgers requires some technique. The smashing is crucial for getting that tasty sear and crispy edges while keeping the inside juicy. Here are steps to get it right:
- Preheat your skillet on medium-high heat. This ensures a good sear!
- Form loose meat balls and place them on the hot skillet. Don’t pack the meat tightly!
- Use a spatula to press down on each ball firmly; this increases surface area and helps them cook evenly.
- Let them cook without moving for 2-3 minutes for a nice crust, then flip. Add cheese immediately after flipping so it melts perfectly.
Following these tips, you’ll have deliciously crispy and juicy smash burgers every time! Enjoy your meal together with low-carb sides to keep the keto vibes going strong.
Easy Keto Big Mac Smash Burgers
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 for juiciness)
- 4 low-carb tortillas or lettuce wraps (for keto-friendly buns)
- 4 slices American cheese
- 8 dill pickle slices
- 1 cup shredded iceberg lettuce
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion (optional)
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp sugar-free ketchup
- 1 tbsp yellow mustard
- 1 tsp white vinegar
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Butter or oil for cooking
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and around 15 minutes for cooking. In total, you’ll have delicious burgers ready to enjoy in about 25 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Big Mac Sauce:
In a small bowl, mix together mayonnaise, sugar-free ketchup, yellow mustard, white vinegar, garlic powder, and onion powder. Stir well until everything is combined and set it aside. This sauce is important for capturing those classic Big Mac flavors!
2. Form the Patties:
Take the ground beef and divide it into 4 equal portions. Each portion should be rolled loosely into a ball—don’t pack it too tightly or it will be tough.
3. Cook the Patties:
Heat a cast-iron skillet or a non-stick pan over medium-high heat. Add a bit of butter or oil to the pan. Once it’s hot, place each beef ball in the pan and smash it down firmly with a spatula to create thin patties, about 1/2 inch thick. Season them with salt and pepper. Let them cook for about 2-3 minutes or until the edges get nice and crispy. Then flip them over and cook for another 1-2 minutes. Once done, place a slice of American cheese on top of each patty and let it melt.
4. Prepare the Buns:
While the patties are cooking, warm the low-carb tortillas slightly in a pan or microwave to make them easier to fold. If using lettuce leaves, prepare them by washing and drying them well.
5. Assemble the Burgers:
- Spread a generous amount of the Big Mac sauce on the bottom tortilla or lettuce leaf.
- Add one cheesy beef patty on top.
- Place two pickle slices on the patty, followed by a handful of shredded lettuce.
- If you like, sprinkle a little chopped onion on top for extra flavor.
- Finish with another spoonful of sauce and cover everything with the top tortilla or lettuce leaf.
6. Serve:
Enjoy your Easy Keto Big Mac Smash Burgers right away while they’re warm! For a side, consider crispy cheese chips or some steamed veggies to keep your meal low-carb.
This recipe captures all the flavors of a classic Big Mac but keeps it keto-friendly. Bon appétit!
FAQ for Easy Keto Big Mac Smash Burgers
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Yes, you can use ground turkey as a leaner alternative! Just keep in mind that turkey may result in a drier patty, so you might want to add a bit of olive oil or butter while cooking to maintain moisture.
What If I Don’t Have Low-Carb Tortillas?
No problem! You can use large lettuce leaves as a wrap instead. Romaine or butter lettuce works well and provides a nice crunch while keeping it low-carb.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover patties and sauce in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm the patties on the stove for a few minutes, adding a little water or broth to keep them moist.
Can I Make the Big Mac Sauce Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the Big Mac sauce in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to a week. This way, it’s ready to go when you want to make your burgers!
