If you’re craving a tasty burger but want to keep it low-carb, these Easy Keto Big Mac Smash Burgers are perfect! Made with juicy beef patties and all the classic toppings, they’re delicious and satisfying.
These burgers are super easy to make and gobble up quickly! I love serving them with a side of crispy veggies. Plus, they have that Big Mac flavor without the carbs. Yum! 🍔
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I recommend using an 80/20 blend for juicy burgers. If you want a leaner option, go for 90/10, but keep in mind it may be less juicy. You can also use ground turkey or chicken if you’re looking for a lower fat option.
American Cheese: This classic cheese melts beautifully, making it great for burgers. If you’re not a fan, you can use cheddar or pepper jack for a different flavor. Just make sure it’s a cheese that melts well!
Low-Carb Tortillas: The low-carb tortillas are essential for keeping the dish keto-friendly. You can substitute with lettuce wraps for a completely carb-free option. Just make sure the lettuce is sturdy enough to hold the fillings!
Big Mac Sauce: This is what gives the burger its unique flavor! If you’re out of some ingredients, you can use store-bought Thousand Island or Russian dressing instead, though check for sugar content to maintain keto goals.
How Can I Smash Burgers Perfectly?
Smashing the burgers gives them that crispy edge and great flavor. Here’s how to do it:
- Roll the ground beef into balls (about 2 ounces each).
- Heat your skillet on medium-high and add some butter or oil for a non-stick surface.
- Place the balls in the pan, then press down hard with a spatula, flattening them out. Try to keep it even!
- Let them cook undisturbed for 2-3 minutes until browned before flipping. This helps develop a nice crust.
Remember, a good smash is essential for that juicy, flavorful burger experience. Don’t rush it; let it get nice and brown! Enjoy your cooking!
Easy Keto Big Mac Smash Burgers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend for juiciness)
- 4 slices American cheese
- 8 low-carb tortillas or keto-friendly flatbreads (for bun substitute)
- 1 cup shredded iceberg lettuce
- 8 dill pickle slices
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon sugar-free ketchup
- 1 teaspoon yellow mustard
- 1 teaspoon white vinegar
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Butter or oil, for cooking
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10-15 minutes total to cook and assemble. You’ll spend a bit of time preparing the sauce, cooking the patties, and then assembling the burgers. It’s a quick and satisfying meal perfect for any day of the week!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Big Mac Sauce:
In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, sugar-free ketchup, yellow mustard, white vinegar, garlic powder, and onion powder. Mix everything together until it’s smooth and well combined. Set this delicious sauce aside while you cook the burgers.
2. Form the Patties:
Grab the ground beef and divide it into 8 small balls, each about 2 ounces in size. Lightly season them with salt and pepper to enhance the flavor.
3. Cook the Patties:
Heat a skillet or griddle over medium-high heat and add a little butter or oil to prevent sticking. Place two beef balls on the skillet and smash them flat with a spatula, creating thin patties. Cook for about 2-3 minutes, checking for crispy and browned edges before flipping.
4. Flip and Add Cheese:
Carefully flip the patties over, and as soon as you do, place a slice of American cheese on top of each patty. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until the cheese is melted and gooey.
5. Warm the Tortillas:
While the patties are cooking, warm the low-carb tortillas on another pan or in the oven. This makes them nice and pliable, so they’ll hold all the tasty fillings.
6. Assemble the Burgers:
Start by placing one cheesy patty on a tortilla, then spread a generous amount of the Big Mac sauce over the patty. Add some dill pickle slices and shredded lettuce, then top it off with another cheesy patty and a drizzle more of the sauce. Finally, place another tortilla on top.
7. Serve:
Press everything gently to hold it together, and serve your beautiful low-carb Big Mac smash burgers immediately. Enjoy every bite of this delicious keto meal!
This recipe is a fun and tasty twist on the classic Big Mac while keeping it keto-friendly. Enjoy making and munching on these special burgers!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. Just keep in mind that they may be less juicy, so you might want to add a bit of oil or seasonings to enhance the flavor.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover burgers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can separate the patties and tortillas to keep them fresh. Reheat the patties in a skillet or microwave when you’re ready to enjoy them again!
Can I Make the Big Mac Sauce Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can! You can prepare the Big Mac sauce a day ahead and store it in the fridge. It actually allows the flavors to meld together beautifully, making it even tastier for your burgers!
What Can I Serve with Keto Big Mac Smash Burgers?
These delicious burgers pair well with a simple side salad, roasted vegetables, or even some crispy keto-friendly fries made from zucchini or radishes for a complete low-carb meal!