If you’re craving a Big Mac but want to keep it low-carb, these Easy Keto Big Mac Smash Burgers are your solution! Juicy beef patties are topped with cheese, lettuce, pickles, and a special sauce that feels like a treat!
The fun part? You can smash those burgers down for extra deliciousness! I like to serve them with a side of crispy fries—cauliflower fries, of course. It makes me feel like I’m indulging without the carbs! 🍔
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I recommend using 80/20 ground beef for the juiciest burgers. If you’re looking for a leaner option, 90/10 will work, but they may be less juicy. For extra flavor, try adding some chopped bacon to the mix!
Cheddar Cheese: Classic cheddar works great, but feel free to mix it up with pepper jack for a spicy kick or Swiss for a milder taste. Just make sure whatever cheese you use melts well!
Pickles: Dill pickles give the best tang, but if you’re not a fan, you can swap them for sliced jalapeños or even cherry tomatoes for a bit of sweetness.
Low-Carb Tortillas/Buns: Look for tortillas high in fiber and low in net carbs. Alternatively, you can use lettuce wraps if you want to be extra low-carb. They really give a fresh crunch!
How Do You Get Perfectly Crispy Smash Burgers?
The secret to those crispy edges is the smashing technique! Once the beef balls hit the hot skillet, press down firmly—but not so hard that you squish all the juices out. Here’s a simple way to do it:
- Heat your skillet to medium-high, and add butter or oil for flavor and non-stick properties.
- When you place the beef balls in, use a sturdy spatula to press down steadily until they’re about 1/2 inch thick.
- Don’t flip too soon! Let them cook for about 2-3 minutes to develop that nice crust before gently flipping them.
These techniques will ensure you get deliciously crispy smash burgers every time! Enjoy your cooking!
Easy Keto Big Mac Smash Burgers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 for juiciness)
- 4 slices cheddar cheese
- 8 pickle slices
- 1 cup shredded iceberg lettuce
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tbsp sugar-free ketchup
- 1 tbsp yellow mustard
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/4 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 low-carb tortillas or keto-friendly buns (or use lettuce wraps for extra low carb)
- Butter or cooking oil for grilling
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and another 10-15 minutes to cook. In just under 30 minutes, you’ll have delicious Keto Big Mac Smash Burgers ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Big Mac Sauce:
In a small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, sugar-free ketchup, yellow mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust the seasoning to your liking, then set it aside. This sauce will add that classic Big Mac flavor!
2. Shape the Burger Patties:
Divide the ground beef into 4 equal portions and gently roll each into a loose ball. Don’t overwork the meat; this keeps the burgers tender!
3. Heat the Skillet:
Put a skillet or griddle on the stove over medium-high heat. Add a small amount of butter or oil to ensure the burgers don’t stick.
4. Smash the Burgers:
Once the skillet is hot, place the beef balls onto it. Using a spatula, press down firmly on each ball to flatten them into thin patties. Let them cook undisturbed for about 2-3 minutes to develop a crispy crust.
5. Add the Cheese:
Carefully flip the patties with the spatula and place a slice of cheddar cheese on each one. Continue cooking for an extra 1-2 minutes, allowing the cheese to melt and the burgers to cook through.
6. Warm the Tortillas or Buns:
While the burgers finish cooking, warm up the low-carb tortillas or buns by placing them in the skillet for a few seconds or microwaving them for about 10-15 seconds.
7. Assemble the Burgers:
Grab your warm tortilla or bun and spread a generous layer of the prepared Big Mac sauce on the inside. Then, layer on a cheesy beef patty, top it with pickle slices, shredded lettuce, and additional sauce if you’re feeling it!
8. Serve & Enjoy:
Fold it gently and serve immediately while hot and juicy! Enjoy your flavorful Keto Big Mac Smash Burgers without any guilt!
Dig in and savor those delicious flavors guilt-free!
FAQ for Easy Keto Big Mac Smash Burgers
Can I Use Leaner Ground Beef?
Absolutely! You can use 90/10 ground beef for a leaner option. Just be aware that the burgers may not be as juicy. For the best flavor and texture, sticking to 80/20 is recommended.
How Can I Make This Recipe Dairy-Free?
You can substitute the cheddar cheese with a dairy-free cheese alternative or skip the cheese altogether. The Big Mac sauce will still provide plenty of flavor, and you can add extra toppings like avocado for creaminess!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave, but for the best results, re-crisp them in a skillet to maintain that tasty texture!
Can I Prep This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Definitely! You can prepare the Big Mac sauce and shape the burger patties in advance. Store them separately in the fridge, and then cook them fresh when you’re ready to serve!
