These Easy Keto Big Mac Smash Burgers are a tasty twist on a fast-food classic! Packed with juicy beef, cheese, and all the special sauce goodness, they’re perfect for satisfying your cravings.
I love how quick it is to make these burgers! Just flatten the patties and watch them sizzle. Pair them with a simple salad for a yummy keto dinner that feels indulgent without the carbs!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I suggest using an 80/20 blend. This fat ratio keeps the burgers juicy and flavorful. If you’re looking for leaner options, ground turkey or chicken can work, but they may not be as juicy.
American Cheese: The classic choice for this recipe. If you’re avoiding processed cheese, try sharp cheddar or gouda for a different flavor twist. Just ensure it melts well!
Low-Carb Tortillas: I recommend using tortillas made from almond flour or coconut flour. If you’re out of them, use large lettuce leaves for a lighter option. Bibb or romaine lettuce works great!
Special Sauce Ingredients: This homemade sauce is simple and delicious. You can swap the mayo for Greek yogurt for added protein and creaminess, or use a vegan mayo for a plant-based twist.
How Do I Perfectly Cook Smash Burgers?
Cooking smash burgers is easy but requires attention to detail! The key is to get a good sear for flavor while keeping the burger juicy.
- Start with a preheated skillet. Make sure it’s hot enough before adding the beef.
- Form the beef into loose balls rather than tight patties. This helps them smash easily.
- When smashing, use a firm spatula. Smash it down only once to avoid over-handling.
- Cook until the edges are crispy, and you see juices rising on top. This usually takes about 2-3 minutes before flipping.
- After flipping, add cheese right away to let it melt perfectly on the hot burger.
With these tips, you’ll have perfectly cooked smash burgers every time! Enjoy your cooking!
Easy Keto Big Mac Smash Burgers
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend for juiciness)
- 4 slices American cheese
- 8 low-carb tortillas or lettuce wraps for keto-friendly buns
- 1 cup shredded iceberg lettuce
- 8 dill pickle slices
- 2 tbsp butter (for toasting tortillas)
Special Sauce:
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tbsp sugar-free ketchup
- 1 tbsp mustard
- 1 tsp white vinegar
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe will take about 15 minutes of prep time and another 10 minutes of cooking. In just about 25 minutes, you’ll be ready to enjoy your tasty keto burgers!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Special Sauce:
In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, sugar-free ketchup, mustard, white vinegar, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well and adjust the seasoning if needed. Once done, cover the bowl and refrigerate the sauce to let the flavors meld together.
2. Form and Cook the Burger Patties:
Divide the ground beef into four equal portions and roll each portion into a loose ball. Heat a skillet or griddle over medium-high heat. When hot, place the beef balls on the skillet and smash them down firmly with a spatula to flatten them into thin patties. Let them cook for about 2-3 minutes, until the edges are nicely browned.
3. Add Cheese and Finish Cooking:
Carefully flip each patty and place a slice of American cheese on top. Cook for another 1-2 minutes, or until the cheese melts and the burger is fully cooked. You’ll love how gooey and delicious it looks!
4. Prepare Keto Buns:
In another skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add a low-carb tortilla and toast it for about 1 minute on each side, until golden and slightly crispy. Repeat this process for all tortillas, making sure they don’t get burnt!
5. Assemble the Smash Burgers:
Take a toasted tortilla and spread a generous spoonful of the special sauce on one side. Place a cheese-topped burger patty on top, followed by some shredded lettuce and two pickle slices. This layering gives your burger a wonderful crunch!
6. Finishing Touch:
If you want, add another tortilla coated with sauce on top, or simply fold the bottom tortilla to form a delicious bun. Every bite will be packed with flavor!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your smash burgers right away while they’re hot and juicy. Enjoy these delightful keto Big Mac Smash Burgers with your favorite side, and savor the comforting taste without the carbs!
This recipe combines the fun of a classic burger with keto-friendly ingredients, keeping all the flavors intact. Perfect for satisfying your cravings while sticking to your diet! Enjoy!
FAQ for Easy Keto Big Mac Smash Burgers
Can I Use Ground Turkey or Chicken Instead of Beef?
Yes, you can! Just be aware that ground turkey or chicken will be leaner, so it might not be as juicy as ground beef. Consider adding a bit of olive oil or butter to help keep it moist during cooking.
How Can I Store Leftover Smash Burgers?
Store any leftover burgers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave them for a quick warm-up or pan-fry them to regain some crispiness!
What If I Don’t Have Low-Carb Tortillas?
No problem! You can use large lettuce leaves, like romaine or butter lettuce, as a substitute for tortillas. This keeps the dish light and still keto-friendly!
Can I Make the Special Sauce Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! The special sauce can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. This will also allow the flavors to develop even more!
