These Easy Keto Big Mac Smash Burgers are juicy, delicious, and perfect for a low-carb meal! With seasoned beef patties, special sauce, and fresh toppings, they hit all the right notes.
Who needs a bun when you can have a burger like this? I love piling on the toppings and enjoying every bite guilt-free. Plus, they’re super quick to make for busy nights! 🍔
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I recommend using an 80/20 blend for juiciness and flavor. If you’re looking for a leaner option, go for 90/10, but keep in mind it might be less juicy. Ground turkey or chicken can work too, though the flavor will differ.
Cheddar Cheese: Traditional cheddar adds a nice sharpness. If you prefer something creamier, try using gouda or mozzarella. For a dairy-free option, look for plant-based cheese that melts well.
Low-Carb Tortillas: These are perfect for keeping your meal low in carbs. If you can’t find them, try lettuce wraps as an alternative! They add a crunchy texture and extra freshness.
Special Sauce Ingredients: Use sugar-free ketchup to keep it keto. If you’re missing pickles, chopped olives can add a nice tang, too. Feel free to adjust the spices in the sauce to fit your taste!
How Do I Get My Patties Perfectly Cooked?
Getting those beef patties perfectly cooked while keeping them juicy is key! Here are a few steps to follow:
- Don’t overwork the beef when forming the patties. Gently roll and flatten them to avoid toughness.
- Smash those patties down in the skillet. A good, firm press will help create a nice crust.
- Cook them briefly on one side until browned and bubbly, then flip gently to add cheese on top for melting.
Keep a close eye on the cooking time. Each side usually needs just a couple of minutes. Enjoy flavorful, juicy burgers every time!
Easy Keto Big Mac Smash Burgers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Burgers:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend recommended)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 slices cheddar cheese
- 8-10 dill pickle slices
- 1 cup shredded iceberg lettuce
- 4 low-carb tortillas or keto-friendly wraps (to use as buns)
For the Special Sauce:
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tbsp sugar-free ketchup
- 1 tbsp mustard (yellow or Dijon)
- 1 tbsp dill pickle relish (sugar-free)
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and 10 minutes of cooking time, so you can have a tasty meal ready in about 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, mustard, dill pickle relish, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together until well combined. Cover and refrigerate until you’re ready to use it!
2. Form the Beef Patties:
Next, take the ground beef and divide it into 4 equal portions. Gently roll each portion into a ball, but try not to overwork the meat, as you’ll want the patties to stay tender.
3. Cook the Patties:
Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium-high heat. Once hot, place each beef ball on the skillet and use a spatula to smash them down flat into thin patties. Sprinkle with salt and pepper. Let them cook for about 2-3 minutes until the edges are browned and crispy.
4. Flip and Add Cheese:
Carefully flip each patty over and immediately place a slice of cheddar cheese on top. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until the cheese is melted and the burgers are cooked through.
5. Prepare the Buns:
While the burgers are cooking, take your low-carb tortillas or wraps and warm them in a separate pan or microwave for a few seconds until they’re pliable and warm, making them easier to fold.
6. Assemble the Burgers:
Now it’s time to put everything together! Spread a generous layer of the special sauce onto each tortilla. Then, place a cheesy beef patty on top, add a few pickle slices, and sprinkle the shredded lettuce over everything. Carefully fold the tortilla over to hold in all the delicious fillings.
7. Serve Immediately:
Your Easy Keto Big Mac Smash Burgers are ready to enjoy! Serve them hot alongside your favorite low-carb sides, like a salad or steamed veggies. Dig in and enjoy the flavors!
This tasty recipe captures all the classic Big Mac flavors—special sauce, pickles, cheddar, and crunchy lettuce—but in a keto-friendly way. Forget about the buns and savor the juicy smash-style beef patties that make this dish a favorite!
FAQ for Easy Keto Big Mac Smash Burgers
Can I Use Ground Turkey or Chicken Instead of Beef?
Yes! You can definitely swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken. Just be aware that the flavor and juiciness will differ a bit, so feel free to add extra seasoning for enhanced taste.
What Can I Use Instead of Low-Carb Tortillas?
If you can’t find low-carb tortillas, lettuce wraps are a fantastic alternative! They provide a fresh crunch and are a great way to keep the meal low-carb and guilt-free.
Can I Make the Special Sauce Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the special sauce in advance and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. This way, it’s ready to go whenever you make the burgers!
How Do I Store Leftover Burgers?
Store any leftover smash burgers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them gently in a skillet or microwave until heated through. Enjoy them for lunch or dinner again!
