These Easy Keto Big Mac Smash Burgers are a tasty twist on your favorite fast food! Juicy beef patties are smashed thin and topped with cheese, pickles, and a yummy special sauce.
What’s great is you can enjoy this without the buns! I love serving them with lettuce wraps—perfect for a low-carb meal. Trust me, you’ll feel like a burger champ! 🍔🌟
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I recommend using an 80/20 blend for its perfect balance of flavor and juiciness. If you’re looking for a leaner option, 85/15 works too, but keep in mind it may be a bit drier. Ground turkey or chicken can also be a great substitute for a lighter protein.
Cheddar Cheese: Cheddar is classic, but feel free to switch it up! Pepper jack adds a spicy kick, or Swiss for a milder taste. Just ensure your cheese is keto-approved and free from unnecessary fillers.
Low-Carb Tortillas: Instead of tortillas, you can use lettuce wraps for a completely carb-free option. You could also try cloud bread for a unique burger experience if you prefer a bread-like texture.
Special Sauce: This sauce is easily customizable. Try adding a splash of hot sauce for heat, or a dash of Worcestershire sauce for a deeper flavor. You could use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise for a lighter version.
How Do I Make the Perfect Smash Burger?
Getting your smash burger just right is key to achieving that delicious crispy edge and juicy center. Here’s how to do it:
- Start with a hot skillet or griddle. The higher the heat, the better the sear!
- After rolling the meat into balls, smash them down immediately with a spatula. Use a hard object if necessary—getting them thin creates those crispy edges.
- Don’t rush the cooking! Let them sit undisturbed for the first couple of minutes to develop a nice brown crust before flipping.
- Add cheese just after flipping to let it melt nicely. Covering the pan briefly can help the cheese melt faster.
Following these steps will ensure you get that perfect smash burger texture and flavor every time!
Easy Keto Big Mac Smash Burgers
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend for juiciness)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 4 slices cheddar cheese
- 8-10 slices dill pickles
- 1 cup shredded iceberg lettuce
- 4 low-carb tortillas or keto-friendly flatbreads (to serve as buns)
Special Sauce:
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tbsp sugar-free ketchup
- 1 tbsp yellow mustard
- 1 tbsp finely chopped dill pickles or relish
- 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 for preparation and about 10 minutes for cooking. In total, you’ll be enjoying your delicious Keto Big Mac Smash Burgers in about 20 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Special Sauce:
In a small bowl, mix the mayonnaise, sugar-free ketchup, yellow mustard, chopped dill pickles, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper together. Put this sauce in the fridge to chill while you prepare the burgers.
2. Get the Skillet Ready:
Heat a skillet or a griddle over medium-high heat. This is where you’ll cook your burger patties!
3. Prepare the Beef:
Divide your ground beef into 4 equal pieces and roll each piece into a loose ball. This will help you form nice patties later.
4. Smash the Patties:
Place each beef ball on the hot skillet. Using a spatula or a heavy object, smash the balls down to form thin patties. Sprinkle a little salt and pepper on top.
5. Cook the Patties:
Let the patties cook for about 2-3 minutes. You want the edges to become crispy and brown.
6. Add Cheese!
Flip each patty over. Now, place a slice of cheddar cheese on each patty and cook for another 1-2 minutes until the cheese is melted and the patties are cooked through.
7. Warm the Tortillas:
While the patties are finishing up, warm your low-carb tortillas in a pan or microwave just long enough to make them soft and pliable.
8. Assemble Your Burgers:
Take a warm tortilla, spread some of that delicious special sauce on it, and add a cheesy beef patty on top. Then, layer on some pickle slices and shredded lettuce. Wrap it up, and you’ve got your burger!
9. Time to Serve!
Enjoy your awesome keto-friendly Big Mac style smash burgers right away. They are best served fresh!
This recipe brings the classic Big Mac to your keto plate using friendly ingredients and a homemade special sauce—all wrapped nicely for a quick and easy meal!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Yes! Ground turkey is a great alternative if you prefer a leaner meat option. Just be aware that turkey tends to be drier than beef, so you might want to add a little olive oil or incorporate some herbs for added flavor and moisture.
What Can I Substitute for the Special Sauce?
If you want a different twist, try using Greek yogurt mixed with a bit of mustard and herbs for a lighter option. You could also use store-bought sugar-free sauces to save time!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave until warmed through. It’s best to keep the sauce separate until serving to ensure freshness.
Can I Freeze These Burgers?
Absolutely! You can freeze the uncooked smashed patties before cooking. Just place them on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, and then transfer to a freezer bag. When ready to cook, just thaw in the refrigerator overnight before cooking as instructed!
