If you’re craving a tasty burger but want to keep it keto-friendly, these Big Mac Smash Burgers are perfect! They’re juicy, loaded with cheese, and have that classic Big Mac flavor without the bun.
Cooking them is a breeze! You just smash the patties on the grill, top with cheese, and pile on lettuce, pickles, and special sauce. Talk about yummy! I love serving mine with a side of crispy veggies for a fun twist!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: For the best flavor and juiciness, I suggest using 80/20 ground beef. If you’re looking for a leaner option, 85/15 or even turkey can work, but the burgers may be less juicy.
Cheddar Cheese: Classic cheddar gives great flavor. If you’re feeling adventurous, try pepper jack for a little kick or mozzarella for a milder taste. Make sure it’s a cheese that melts well.
Low-Carb Tortillas: I love using low-carb tortillas for that classic burger feel. You can also use lettuce wraps if you’re looking for an even lighter option. Just be careful not to overload them, or they might crumble!
Special Sauce Ingredients: The homemade sauce is simple! You can easily swap the mayo for Greek yogurt to reduce calories or use a vegan mayo for a plant-based option. Sugar-free ketchup is a must for keeping it keto-friendly!
How Do You Get Perfectly Crispy Smash Burgers?
Making smash burgers is all about the technique! Here’s how to get that delicious crispy crust: First, preheat your skillet or griddle until it’s nice and hot. This helps to sear the beef properly. Once your meat hits the pan, use a flat spatula to press down firmly. The key here is to hold it for a few seconds to create that crispy edge.
- After smashing, season the patties generously with salt and pepper.
- Cook without moving them for 2-3 minutes until the edges look browned.
- When flipping, quickly add cheese on top so it melts while the other side cooks!
This technique not only enhances flavor but also gives that great texture that everyone loves in a burger!
How to Make Easy Keto Big Mac Smash Burgers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Burgers:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend for juiciness)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 4 slices cheddar cheese
- 4 low-carb tortillas or keto-friendly buns (used as bun substitute)
- 1/2 cup shredded iceberg lettuce
- 8-12 dill pickle slices
For the Special Sauce:
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp sugar-free ketchup
- 1 tbsp yellow mustard
- 1 tsp white vinegar
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- Optional: pinch of paprika or smoked paprika for sauce
How Much Time Will You Need?
This scrumptious recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and about 10 minutes to cook, so you’ll have a delightful meal ready in around 20 minutes! Perfect for a quick and satisfying 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 a pinch of paprika until it’s smooth and well-blended. Set this sauce aside; it adds that classic Big Mac flavor!
2. Shape and Cook the Burger Patties:
Take the ground beef and divide it into four equal portions; loosely form each into a ball. This will help maintain juiciness. Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium-high heat, and once hot, place each ball on the surface. Immediately smash each ball down with a spatula to form thin patties. Don’t forget to season with salt and pepper!
3. Flip and Add Cheese:
Cook the patties for about 2-3 minutes or until the edges are nice and brown and crispy. Then flip them over. As soon as you flip, place a slice of cheddar cheese on each patty. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until the cheese is melted and the burger is fully cooked.
4. Prepare the Bun Substitute:
While the burgers cook, warm your low-carb tortillas or keto buns in a separate skillet or microwave just until they’re pliable and warm. This will make them easier to handle and more pleasant to eat!
5. Assemble the Burgers:
Start by spreading a generous amount of the special sauce on the bottom of each tortilla or bun. Place a cooked burger patty with melted cheese on top. Add a handful of shredded lettuce and a few dill pickle slices. Then, go ahead and spread a little more of that yummy special sauce on the top tortilla or bun before placing it on top to finish the burger.
6. Serve Up and Enjoy:
Serve your Keto Big Mac Smash Burgers immediately while they’re hot! They’re flavorful, juicy, and all the goodness of a Big Mac without the carbs. Enjoy every bite!
This easy recipe brings the familiar Big Mac flavors into a keto-friendly delight with crispy edges and tasty toppings. Perfect for satisfying that fast-food craving at home!
FAQs for Easy Keto Big Mac Smash Burgers
Can I Use a Different Type of Meat?
Absolutely! While the recipe uses ground beef for its juiciness, you can substitute with ground turkey or chicken. Just be aware that these may not have the same flavor and moisture levels. Consider adding a bit of olive oil to enhance the taste and ensure they don’t dry out!
What Are Some Low-Carb Bun Alternatives?
If you want to switch things up, besides low-carb tortillas, you can use lettuce wraps for a lighter option or even keto-friendly buns made from almond flour. Just ensure whatever you choose is sturdy enough to hold the ingredients without falling apart!
Can I Make the Special Sauce Ahead of Time?
Yes! The special sauce can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to a week. This makes meal prep easy—just whip it up and keep it handy for quick assembly when you’re ready to make your burgers!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
If you have any leftovers, store the components separately in airtight containers in the fridge. The cooked patties can last for up to 3 days, while the sauce should remain good for up to a week. To reheat the burgers, warm them in a skillet over low heat to maintain their texture.
