Get ready for a fun twist on classic flavors with these Smash Burger Tacos! They bring together juicy beef patties, melted cheese, and all the fixings from a Big Mac, all wrapped in soft tortillas.
Who knew tacos could be this messy and delicious? 😄 I love whipping these up for a quick dinner, and they’re perfect for sharing with friends. Just add your favorite toppings, and enjoy!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I recommend using an 80/20 blend for the best flavor and juiciness. If you’re looking for a leaner option, you can use ground turkey or chicken, but be aware that they won’t be as rich in flavor.
Tortillas: Flour tortillas work great for this recipe because they are soft and pliable. If you prefer a lower-carb option, corn tortillas can be used too, just be sure to heat them slightly to make them more flexible.
Cheese: American cheese is classic for its meltability and creamy texture, but you can substitute with cheddar or pepper jack if you want more flavor. Just keep in mind that it might change the overall taste.
Big Mac-style Special Sauce: This sauce really pulls everything together. If you’re short on time, bottled Thousand Island dressing is a perfect shortcut! You can also add a dash of hot sauce for a little kick.
How Do You Achieve Perfectly Smashed Patties?
The secret to getting those deliciously crispy edges is the “smash” technique. Start with loosely formed balls of beef to prevent overworking the meat, which can result in tough patties.
- Heat your skillet on medium-high; this ensures a nice sear.
- Once hot, place the beef balls on the skillet, and don’t hesitate to smash them down with a spatula. The goal is to create a thin patty that cooks quickly and develops a crust.
- Season generously with salt and pepper after smashing for added flavor!
This method creates those tasty crispy edges that make your tacos extra special.
Smash Burger Tacos Inspired by Big Mac
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Tacos:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 8 small flour tortillas or taco-sized tortillas
- 4 slices American cheese
- 1 cup shredded iceberg lettuce
- 1/2 cup diced pickles (dill style)
- 1/4 cup finely chopped white onion
- 1 large tomato, thinly sliced (optional)
- 1/4 cup Thousand Island dressing or Big Mac-style special sauce (see below)
- 1 tbsp vegetable or canola oil
For the Big Mac-style Special Sauce:
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tbsp ketchup
- 1 tbsp sweet pickle relish
- 1 tsp white vinegar
- 1 tsp granulated sugar
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 20 minutes to prepare and about 10 minutes to cook. It’s quick and perfect for a tasty weeknight dinner that feels like a treat!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Big Mac-Style Sauce:
In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, ketchup, pickle relish, vinegar, sugar, onion powder, and garlic powder. Mix well and then refrigerate it until you are ready to use it.
2. Preheat Your Cooking Surface:
Heat a cast iron skillet or griddle over medium-high heat. Lightly brush the surface with a bit of oil to prevent sticking.
3. Form the Burger Patties:
Take the ground beef and form it into 8 loosely packed balls, each about 2 ounces. Be careful not to overwork the meat, as this can make the patties tough.
4. Smash the Patties:
Once the skillet is hot, place the beef balls onto it and immediately smash them down firmly with a spatula or burger press, creating thin patties. Season generously with salt and pepper.
5. Cook the Patties:
Cook the patties for about 2-3 minutes until the edges are crispy and brown. Flip each patty over, add a slice of American cheese on top, and cook for another 1-2 minutes until the cheese melts and the patty is cooked through.
6. Warm the Tortillas:
While the patties are cooking, warm the tortillas briefly in a dry skillet or microwave to make them soft and pliable.
7. Assemble the Tacos:
For each tortilla, spread a spoonful of Big Mac sauce. Place a smashed burger patty on top, and then add the shredded lettuce, diced pickles, chopped onions, and tomato slices if you’re using them.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Fold the tortillas over the filling and serve immediately while they are warm and juicy. Enjoy your Smash Burger Tacos with a side of fries or chips for a delightful meal!
This recipe captures the iconic Big Mac flavor in a fun, easy-to-eat taco form! Enjoy every bite! 🌮🍔
Frequently Asked Questions about Smash Burger Tacos
Can I Use a Different Type of Meat?
Absolutely! While ground beef is traditional for this recipe, you can use ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat alternatives for a healthier or vegetarian option. Just be aware that leaner meats may require additional seasoning or fat to maintain moisture.
What Can I Substitute for the Big Mac-style Sauce?
If you’re short on ingredients or time, store-bought Thousand Island dressing works perfectly! You can also mix mayonnaise with ketchup and relish to make a quick alternative, or add a bit of spicy sauce for extra flavor.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover tacos in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, warm the taco components separately on the stovetop or microwave, then assemble fresh before serving for the best taste and texture.
Can I Make These Tacos Ahead of Time?
While the patties are best made fresh, you can prepare the sauce and form the burger patties in advance! Store the sauce in the fridge and keep the formed patties tightly wrapped in the fridge for up to a day before cooking.
