These Smash Burger Big Mac Tacos are a fun twist on two classic favorites! You’ll have tasty burger patties, cheese, and special sauce all wrapped in soft taco shells. Yum!
Who knew tacos could get so cheesy and juicy? I love making these when friends visit—everyone smiles when they see them. Plus, they’re super easy to whip up for a quick meal!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I recommend using beef with a fat content of 80/20. This ratio gives you juicy and flavorful patties. If you’re looking for a leaner option, you can go with 90/10, but they might be less juicy.
Tortillas: Soft flour tortillas work best, but corn tortillas can also be a great option for a gluten-free choice. Just warm them up well to avoid tearing.
Cheese: American cheese melts really well, which is why I love using it here. If you’re not a fan, cheddar or pepper jack can work too for a different flavor.
Special Sauce: This is the star of the show! If you don’t have mayonnaise, you can use Greek yogurt for a healthier twist. For a spicier kick, add a dash of hot sauce or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
How Do You Smash the Perfect Burger Patties?
Smashing the patties is crucial for achieving that classic burger vibe! Here’s how to do it right:
- Make sure your skillet or griddle is hot. This gives you a nice sear on the patties. Preheating is key!
- When placing the beef ball on the skillet, push down firmly with a spatula. Aim for a thickness of about 1/4 inch. The more surface area, the more caramelization!
- Don’t rush the cooking! Let the edges brown for about 2 minutes before flipping to get a nice crust.
- Right after flipping, add the cheese. It’ll melt quickly and create that gooey goodness.
With these tips, your Smash Burger Big Mac Tacos will be bursting with flavor. Enjoy making and sharing them with friends!
Smash Burger Big Mac Tacos
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Tacos:
- 1 lb ground beef (preferably 80/20 for juiciness)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 8 small soft flour or corn tortillas
- 4 slices American cheese
- 1 cup shredded iceberg lettuce
- 1/2 cup finely chopped white onion
- 1/2 cup pickles, sliced
- 1/2 cup special sauce (see below)
For the Special Sauce:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp ketchup
- 1 tbsp yellow mustard
- 2 tsp sweet pickle relish
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 20 minutes to prepare and cook. You’ll spend 10 minutes making the special sauce and preparing the ingredients, then about 10-15 minutes cooking the patties and assembling your delicious tacos. Quick and delicious!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Special Sauce:
In a bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, ketchup, yellow mustard, sweet pickle relish, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and salt. Stir until everything is well combined and smooth. Cover the bowl and refrigerate it while you prepare the burgers.
2. Form the Beef Patties:
Take the ground beef and divide it into 8 equal portions. Gently shape each portion into loose balls, being careful not to compact them too tightly. This keeps them juicy when cooking!
3. Heat Your Cooking Surface:
Place a heavy skillet or griddle on medium-high heat. Let it get hot before adding the beef to ensure a good sear.
4. Smash the Patties:
Once hot, place each beef ball on the skillet. Using a spatula, smash each ball down firmly to create thin patties about 1/4 inch thick. This helps them cook evenly and get that lovely crispy edge!
5. Season and Cook the Patties:
Sprinkle salt and pepper over the patties. Cook for about 2 minutes, or until the edges turn brown and crispy. Then flip the patties over.
6. Add the Cheese:
Right after flipping, place a slice of American cheese on each patty. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until the cheese is melted and the patties are cooked through.
7. Warm the Tortillas:
Use a dry skillet or microwave to warm your tortillas until they are pliable. This step makes them easier to fold and eat!
8. Assemble the Tacos:
Spread a spoonful of the special sauce onto each tortilla. Place a cheese-topped smash patty on top, and then add the shredded lettuce, chopped onion, and pickles.
9. Fold and Serve:
Fold the tortillas over the filling to create your tacos. Serve immediately with extra special sauce on the side for dipping if desired!
Enjoy your delicious and fun Smash Burger Big Mac Tacos! They’re perfect for sharing with friends or enjoying as a tasty dinner treat!
FAQ for Smash Burger Big Mac Tacos
Can I Use Ground Turkey or Chicken Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be used as a leaner alternative. Just be sure to season them well since these meats have a milder flavor. They may also require a slightly shorter cooking time, so keep an eye on them!
How Do I Store Leftover Tacos?
Store any leftover tacos in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To prevent the tortillas from becoming soggy, you can store the filling (patties, cheese, toppings) separately from the tortillas. Reheat the filling in the microwave or on the stovetop when you’re ready to eat.
Can I Make the Special Sauce in Advance?
Yes, definitely! You can prepare the special sauce up to 2 days in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just give it a good stir before using it to ensure everything is well mixed again.
What Cheese Alternatives Work Best?
If you want to swap out American cheese, you can use cheddar, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack for a bit of heat. Just keep in mind that different cheeses may melt differently, so adjust your cooking time accordingly!
