These Easy Keto Big Mac Smash Burgers are juicy and tasty, packed with all the classic flavors you love. Plus, they’re super simple to whip up, making dinner a breeze!
Don’t forget the special sauce! It’s like a little magic touch that takes these burgers to a whole new level. I like to serve mine with a side salad for a fresh crunch—yummy!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: Using 80/20 beef is great for flavor and juiciness. If you’re looking to make it leaner, you can swap it out for 90/10. Just note it may be a bit less juicy!
Cheese: American cheese is classic for its meltiness, but cheddar will add a sharper taste. Feel free to experiment with other types like Gouda or Swiss if you prefer something different.
Keto Tortillas: These are essential for keeping it low-carb. If you can’t find them, you could use lettuce wraps instead for a fresh, crunchy alternative!
Dill Pickles: Make sure to use full-sour dill pickles for the most flavor! You can swap them with relish or chopped cucumber if necessary.
What’s the Best Way to Make Smash Burgers?
Smash burgers are all about simplicity and maximizing flavor. The key is to smash the beef to form a crust, which gives a deliciously crispy edge. Here’s how to do it right:
- Divide the beef into balls, but don’t overwork them! Handle them gently.
- Get your skillet nice and hot. The right pan is crucial for perfect browning.
- When you’re ready to cook, smash the balls down firmly with a spatula. The goal is to flatten them evenly.
- Don’t flip the patties too soon! Wait for 2-3 minutes to let them brown before flipping.
And always remember, adding cheese right after flipping keeps it melty and delicious!
How to Make Easy Keto Big Mac Smash Burgers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Burgers:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 fat content)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 4 slices American cheese (or cheddar, if preferred)
- 8 large dill pickle slices
- 1 cup shredded iceberg lettuce
- 4 low-carb tortillas or keto-friendly flatbreads (to mimic buns)
For the Special Sauce:
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp sugar-free ketchup
- 1 tbsp yellow mustard
- 2 tsp dill pickle relish (sugar-free)
- 1 tsp white vinegar
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and about 10 minutes of cooking time, for a total of around 20 minutes. You’ll quickly whip up the special sauce, form the burger patties, and cook them to perfection. In no time, you’ll have delicious burgers on your plate!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Special Sauce:
In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, sugar-free ketchup, yellow mustard, dill pickle relish, white vinegar, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well and refrigerate until you’re ready to use it. This sauce adds that classic Big Mac flavor!
2. Prepare the Beef Patties:
Divide the ground beef into 4 equal portions. Gently form each portion into a ball. Be careful not to overhandle the meat; a light touch is key for juicy burgers.
3. Heat the Skillet:
Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium-high heat. You’ll want it hot to get a good sear on the burgers!
4. Cook the Smash Burgers:
Place two beef balls in the skillet. Using a spatula, press firmly to smash the beef balls into thin patties. Season each patty with salt and pepper. Cook for about 2-3 minutes until the edges are crispy and browned.
5. Flip and Add Cheese:
Carefully flip the patties and immediately place a slice of cheese on each one. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until the cheese melts and the patties are cooked through.
6. Warm the Tortillas:
In a dry pan or microwave, warm the low-carb tortillas or keto flatbreads slightly to make them more pliable and easier to fold.
7. Assemble the Burgers:
Start by placing one cheesy patty on each tortilla. Spread a generous amount of the special sauce over the top of the patty, letting that flavor shine through!
8. Add Pickles and Lettuce:
Top the sauce with 2 pickle slices followed by a handful of shredded iceberg lettuce. This adds crunch and freshness to your burger.
9. Add Another Patty:
Finish off the assembly by adding a second cheesy patty on top of the lettuce.
10. Fold and Serve:
Gently fold the tortillas around the filling, creating a delicious wrap. Serve immediately and enjoy your Easy Keto Big Mac Smash Burgers!
Now, dig in and enjoy the juicy, flavorful experience without the carbs!
FAQ for Easy Keto Big Mac Smash Burgers
Can I Use Ground Turkey or Chicken Instead of Beef?
Yes! You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for beef. Just remember that these meats can be leaner, so consider adding a bit of olive oil or butter while cooking to keep the patties moist.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover burgers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For the best texture, reheat the patties in a skillet to retain their juiciness or use the microwave if you’re short on time.
Can I Make the Special Sauce Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can make the special sauce up to 2 days in advance and store it in the refrigerator. This will let the flavors meld together, enhancing the taste when you’re ready to serve the burgers.
What Can I Use Instead of Low-Carb Tortillas?
If you can’t find low-carb tortillas, consider using large lettuce leaves to wrap the burgers. This not only keeps it keto-friendly but also adds a refreshing crunch!
