These Easy Keto Big Mac Smash Burgers are just what you need for a tasty meal without the carbs! Juicy beef patties, special sauce, lettuce, and cheese come together for a delight that’s hard to resist.
I love making these on a busy day. They’re fun to smash and grill, and you can pile on your favorite toppings! Perfect for satisfying those burger cravings without breaking keto!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: Using an 80/20 blend ensures juicy burgers. If you’re looking for a leaner option, 90/10 ground beef works too, but burgers may be less juicy.
Cheddar Cheese: I love cheddar for its melty goodness, but if you’re a fan of Swiss or pepper jack, feel free to switch it up for different flavors.
Keto Tortillas or Buns: Look for low-carb tortillas that are flexible and strong enough to hold the burgers. If you can’t find tortillas, use lettuce wraps for a fresh, crunchy option.
Special Sauce: The homemade sauce is key! If you’re in a rush, you can use store-bought sugar-free sauces, but I recommend trying to mix your own for fresher flavor.
How Can I Make Juicy Smash Burgers?
Getting that perfect smash on your burgers is key to making them taste amazing. Here’s how to do it:
- Use a hot skillet or griddle to get a great sear.
- Loosely form the beef into balls, then smash them down firmly with a spatula. Pressing firmly helps create nice edges that get crispy.
- Don’t flip too soon! Wait until you see browning edges before turning for the best flavor and texture.
- Always season the patties with salt and pepper right after you smash them for the best taste.
Following these tips ensures your burgers turn out tasty and satisfying every time!
Easy Keto Big Mac Smash Burgers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Burgers:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend for juiciness)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 4 slices cheddar cheese
- 4 keto low-carb tortillas or keto-friendly buns
- 1 cup shredded iceberg lettuce
- 8 slices dill pickles
For the Toppings:
For the Special Sauce:
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tbsp sugar-free ketchup
- 1 tsp yellow mustard
- 1 tsp white vinegar
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- Optional: A pinch of paprika for extra flavor in the sauce
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 10 minutes to prepare and 10 minutes to cook, so you can enjoy a delicious meal in around 20 minutes. Quick and easy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
Start by preheating a large skillet or griddle over medium-high heat. This will help your burgers get a nice sear!
2. Form the Beef Balls:
Divide the ground beef into 4 equal portions and loosely form each into a ball. Don’t pack them too tightly, as you want them nice and juicy!
3. Make the Special Sauce:
In a small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, sugar-free ketchup, yellow mustard, white vinegar, garlic powder, onion powder, and, if you’d like, a pinch of paprika. Set it aside for later!
4. Smash the Patties:
Place the beef balls onto the hot skillet. Using a spatula, firmly press down on each ball to flatten it into a thin patty. This is where the “smash” happens!
5. Season and Cook:
Generously season the patties with salt and pepper. Cook them for about 2-3 minutes until the edges look crispy and browned.
6. Add Cheese:
Flip each patty over and place a slice of cheddar cheese on top. Cook for another 1-2 minutes, or until the cheese is nice and melted and the burgers are cooked through.
7. Warm the Tortillas/Buns:
While the burgers are cooking, you can warm up the keto tortillas or buns on a separate pan or in the oven just until they’re soft.
8. Assemble Your Burger:
To put it all together, spread about a tablespoon of the special sauce on each tortilla or bun. Then, layer on some shredded lettuce, one cheesy patty, and two pickle slices.
9. Enjoy!
Fold your delicious Keto Big Mac Smash Burger and enjoy each bite! These burgers deliver all the big flavors without the carbs!
Now you have a satisfying meal that mimics the classic Big Mac and keeps you on track with your keto lifestyle. Enjoy cooking and eating!
Can I Use Ground Turkey or Chicken Instead of Beef?
Yes, you can! Ground turkey or chicken works well as a leaner alternative. Just be aware that they might not be as juicy as beef, so consider adding a bit of olive oil or other fat to keep them moist.
How Do I Store Leftover Smash Burgers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to eat, reheat them gently in a skillet or microwave, and add a fresh layer of sauce if desired to refresh the flavors.
Can I Make the Special Sauce in Advance?
Absolutely! You can make the special sauce a day or two ahead and store it in an airtight container in the fridge. This will allow the flavors to meld together even more!
What Can I Substitute for Keto Tortillas?
If you’re unable to find keto tortillas, you can use lettuce leaves for a fresh wrap or make your own low-carb “buns” using almond flour or coconut flour for a more traditional burger experience.
