These Easy Keto Big Mac Smash Burgers are juicy and full of flavor! With layers of cheese, special sauce, and all the classic toppings, they taste just like the real deal.
They’re super fun to make, too! Just smash those patties down and watch the magic happen. I love serving mine with fresh pickles on the side—yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I like using 80/20 ground beef for the right balance of flavor and juiciness. You can swap it with turkey or chicken if you’re looking for a lean option.
American Cheese: This cheese melts perfectly, but cheddar works too! If you’re dairy-free, try vegan cheese slices that melt well.
Low-Carb Tortillas: For a bun alternative, choose these for their low-carb content. If you can’t find them, use lettuce wraps for a fresh twist!
Pickles: Dill pickles add crunch and tang. If you prefer less vinegar flavor, go for bread and butter pickles or omit them altogether.
How Do I Get Perfectly Crispy Smash Burgers?
The key to getting those delicious crispy edges lies in the smashing technique. Use a hot skillet—this is crucial! Here’s how:
- Preheat your skillet on medium-high before adding the meat.
- Place a beef ball and smash it down firmly with a spatula for a thin, even patty.
- Seal in the flavor by seasoning immediately while cooking.
- Cook until crispy edges form before flipping; this creates that perfect contrast in texture!
With these tips, you’ll be ready to serve up burgers packed with flavor and a satisfying crunch! Enjoy your cooking adventure!
Easy Keto Big Mac Smash Burgers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb ground beef (preferably 80/20)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 4 slices American cheese (or cheddar cheese)
- 1/2 cup shredded iceberg lettuce
- 8 slices dill pickles
- 4 low-carb tortillas or keto-friendly flatbreads (as bun substitutes)
For the Special Sauce:
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tbsp sugar-free ketchup
- 1 tbsp finely diced dill pickles or pickle relish
- 1 tsp yellow mustard
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/4 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time, plus about 10 minutes for cooking. In total, you’ll spend around 25 minutes to enjoy these tasty burgers!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Special Sauce:
In a small bowl, mix the mayonnaise, sugar-free ketchup, diced pickles or relish, yellow mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir until well combined and refrigerate until you’re ready to assemble the burgers.
2. Shape the Beef:
Take the ground beef and divide it into 4 equal portions. Gently roll each portion into a ball, being careful not to pack it too tightly.
3. Cook the Patties:
Heat a cast iron skillet or non-stick pan over medium-high heat. Place one beef ball in the skillet. Using a spatula, smash the ball firmly into a thin patty about ¼ inch thick. Season it generously with salt and pepper. Let it cook for about 2-3 minutes until the edges are crispy and browned.
4. Add the Cheese:
Flip the patty over, and place a slice of cheese on top. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
5. Keep Warm and Repeat:
Remove the cooked patty and keep it warm while you repeat the process with the remaining beef balls to make four patties.
6. Prepare the Buns:
While your patties are cooking, warm the low-carb tortillas or keto flatbreads in a pan or microwave until they’re soft and pliable.
7. Assemble the Burgers:
Start by spreading a generous layer of the special sauce on one tortilla. Add a cheese-topped patty, followed by a handful of shredded lettuce and 2 pickle slices. Drizzle a little more sauce on top, then place another tortilla or flatbread on top to complete your burger.
8. Serve and Enjoy!
Dig into your delicious keto-friendly Big Mac Smash Burgers right away! Pair them with your favorite low-carb sides for a complete meal.
This recipe perfectly captures the essence of a classic Big Mac while keeping it low-carb and keto-friendly. The combination of crispy smashed burgers and special sauce will surely leave you satisfied!
FAQ for Easy Keto Big Mac Smash Burgers
Can I Use Ground Turkey or Chicken Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef. Just keep in mind that these meats can be leaner, so you might want to add a little olive oil or butter to prevent them from drying out during cooking.
How Do I Store Leftover Burgers?
Store any leftover burgers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm in the microwave or on the skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of water to prevent drying out.
Can I Make the Special Sauce Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can make the special sauce up to 3 days in advance! Just store it in a sealed container in the fridge. The flavors will meld together beautifully as it sits!
What’s a Good Side Dish to Serve with These Burgers?
Great options include a simple side salad, roasted vegetables, or even some homemade keto fries made from zucchini or radishes for a low-carb twist!
