These Easy Smash Burger Big Mac Tacos bring together the joys of burgers and tacos in one tasty bite! With seasoned beef, cheese, lettuce, and special sauce, these tacos are super fun!
I mean, who can say no to tacos stuffed with all that burger goodness? It’s like a party for your taste buds! 🌮🎉 I love making these for a chill movie night; everyone gets a kick out of them!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I suggest using 80/20 ground beef for extra juiciness. If you’re looking for a leaner option, you can use ground turkey or chicken, but watch out; they’ll cook faster!
Tortillas: Small flour or corn tortillas work best here, but feel free to use large ones cut in half or even lettuce wraps for a low-carb version.
Cheddar Cheese: Cheddar gives a nice flavor, but you could use American cheese for that classic burger vibe. Or, try pepper jack for a bit of a kick!
Special Sauce: If you’re short on ingredients, a simple mix of mayo and ketchup can work. You can also add sriracha for some heat or use Greek yogurt for a lighter version.
How Can I Make Sure My Burgers are Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking the beef patties just right is key for these tacos. The smash technique creates a delicious crust and keeps the inside juicy. Here’s how to nail it:
- Make sure your skillet is hot! A pre-heated skillet gives that nice sear.
- Don’t be afraid to smash the patty down firmly. This increases the surface area and creates a crust.
- Cook for 2-3 minutes until the edges get crispy, then flip gently and add cheese.
- Cover with a lid for the last 1-2 minutes to help the cheese melt perfectly.
By following these steps, you’ll have tasty, juicy burger tacos every time! Happy cooking!
Easy Smash Burger Big Mac Tacos
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Tacos:
- 1 lb ground beef (preferably 80/20 for juiciness)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 6 small tortillas or flatbreads (about 6-inch size)
- 6 slices cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded iceberg lettuce
- 1/2 cup diced white onion
- Dill pickle slices (about 12 slices)
For the Special Sauce:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp ketchup
- 1 tbsp yellow mustard
- 2 tsp pickle juice (from the jar)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika or regular paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This tasty recipe will take about 20 minutes total. You’ll spend about 10 minutes on prep and cooking the beef, and then 10 minutes assembling your delicious Big Mac tacos. Perfect for a quick dinner or a fun night with friends!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Special Sauce:
In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, ketchup, yellow mustard, pickle juice, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Whisk these all together until it’s smooth and creamy. Taste it and add more salt or pepper if you like. Pop it in the fridge to chill while you get everything else ready.
2. Cook the Beef Patties:
Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium-high heat. Divide the ground beef into 6 equal portions. Place one piece in the hot skillet and use a spatula to press down firmly to form a thin patty. Season with salt and pepper. Let it cook for about 2-3 minutes until the edges are crispy. Flip the patty carefully, then top with a slice of cheddar cheese. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until the cheese melts and the patty is cooked through. Remove from heat and repeat with remaining beef.
3. Warm the Tortillas:
While you’re cooking the patties, warm the tortillas or flatbreads in a dry pan on low heat, or microwave them for a few seconds until soft and pliable. This makes them easier to fold around the fillings.
4. Assemble the Tacos:
Take a warm tortilla and place one cheesy beef patty in the center. Top it with shredded lettuce, diced onions, and dill pickle slices. Drizzle the special sauce generously over everything.
5. Serve Immediately:
Gently fold the tacos closed, then serve them right away for the best flavor and texture. You can enjoy them with extra sauce on the side for dipping if you like!
Enjoy your delicious and fun Smash Burger Big Mac Tacos—a perfect mashup of two favorites that everyone will love!
FAQ: Easy Smash Burger Big Mac Tacos
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great substitute if you’re looking for a leaner option. Just be aware that turkey can cook faster, so keep an eye on it to prevent dryness.
How Can I Make These Tacos Vegetarian?
You can make these tacos vegetarian by using a meat substitute like black bean patties or plant-based ground meat. Top them with your favorite cheese and follow the same assembly instructions!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover tacos in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, warm them in a skillet over medium heat until heated through, or in the microwave for about 30-60 seconds.
Can I Make the Special Sauce Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the special sauce a day in advance. Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge. Give it a quick stir before using to make sure it’s smooth and creamy!