Oh boy, let me tell you about one of my newest obsessions—these Keto Big Mac Smash Burgers! I never thought I could enjoy the classic flavors of a Big Mac while sticking to my keto lifestyle, but here we are! It’s like a culinary miracle wrapped in warm tortillas. The first time I made these, my taste buds did a little happy dance, and I’m fairly certain I heard angels sing. Nothing beats the nostalgia of a drive-thru burger but with low-carb flair!
What makes this recipe even more special is the incredible homemade Big Mac sauce. Trust me, you’ll want to whip up a hefty batch because it’s about to become your new go-to for burgers, fries (ahem, zucchini fries), and everything in between. So, let’s dive into the goodness of these delightful smash burgers!
What’s in Keto Big Mac Smash Burgers?
- Ground beef (80/20 blend): This is the key to juicy burgers! The fat content keeps the patties moist and flavorful. You can also try using grass-fed beef for a health boost!
- Salt and black pepper: Simple seasonings that enhance the natural flavors. I prefer sea salt for that extra crunch.
- Cheddar cheese: Four slices of this melty goodness help bring that beloved cheeseburger taste! Use sharp cheddar for a bit of bite.
- Low-carb tortillas: The perfect wrap for our burger! I love using Mission Carb Balance tortillas—they taste great and keep this dish low-carb.
- Shredded lettuce: Adds a nice crunch; also a sneaky way to add some greens to your meal!
- Diced onions: Sweet and tangy, they elevate the burger experience. I recommend red onions for a pop of color!
- Dill pickles: Sliced dills add the perfect zing that’s reminiscent of the original Big Mac.
- Big Mac sauce: The star of the show! A creamy, tangy, and slightly sweet condiment that truly makes these burgers stand out.
Is Keto Big Mac Smash Burgers Good for You?
Oh, absolutely! If you’re on a keto diet, ground beef is your best friend, providing vital protein and healthy fats. The lettuce and diced onions add fresh elements and a little crunch, not to mention they’re super low in carbs. While the cheddar cheese brings in calcium and a rich flavor, it’s worth noting that it’s energy-dense. But hey, this is a treat, not a daily meal, right? Just remember, moderation is key, even when wrapped in gorgeous, low-carb tortillas!
Ingredients List
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend recommended)
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 4 slices of cheddar cheese
- 4 low-carb tortillas (or keto-friendly tortilla substitutes)
- 1/2 cup shredded lettuce
- 1/4 cup diced onions
- 1/4 cup dill pickles (sliced)
- 1/2 cup Big Mac sauce (see recipe below)
How to Make Keto Big Mac Smash Burgers?
- Make the Big Mac Sauce: In a small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, ketchup, mustard, vinegar, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Set aside—it’s going to be hard not to taste-test this!
- Prepare the Patties: Preheat a skillet or griddle over medium-high heat. In a mixing bowl, season the ground beef with salt and black pepper. Form this delicious beef goodness into 4 equal meatballs.
- Smash the Burgers: Place each meatball onto the hot skillet and use a spatula to flatten them into thin patties. Cook for about 2-3 minutes or until they are beautifully browned on one side. Then, flip those beauties and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes on the other side.
- Add Cheese: Right before they’re finished, place 1 slice of cheddar cheese on each patty and cover the skillet. This helps melt the cheese perfectly!
- Assemble the Burgers: Lay a keto tortilla on a plate, stack the cheeseburger on top, then add shredded lettuce, diced onions, sliced pickles, and drizzle generously with your Big Mac sauce. Wrap it up with another tortilla to create a glorious double-decker experience!
- Serve: Repeat the assembly for the remaining burgers and serve immediately. Don’t forget to set aside some extra Big Mac sauce for dipping—because, well, it’s too good not to!
Tips for Ultimate Keto Smash Burgers!
- These burgers are fantastic for meal prep! Store each component separately and assemble them on the day you want to dig in.
- Feel free to customize toppings based on your cravings. Avocado slices, jalapeños, or even bacon can elevate this dish further.
- Experiment with the tortilla options! You can try cauliflower tortilla for a unique taste or even lettuce wraps for a lighter version.
There you have it—these Keto Big Mac Smash Burgers are not just a delicious meal; they’re a fun experience that’ll have everyone coming back for more (and asking for the recipe, of course!). I hope you give them a try and let me know how you like them. Happy cooking and enjoying those flavors without the guilt!
