Keto Big Mac Smash Burgers: A Low-Carb Twist on a Classic Favorite

If you’re on a keto diet and craving a juicy, flavorful burger, look no further than these Keto Big Mac Smash Burgers. This recipe combines the iconic flavors of a Big Mac with the simplicity of smash burgers, all while keeping it low-carb and keto-friendly. With only 2 grams of net carbs per serving, these burgers are perfect for cookouts, weeknight dinners, or anytime you want a satisfying meal without breaking your carb limit.

In this post, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to make these delicious Keto Big Mac Smash Burgers, including step-by-step instructions, tips for perfecting the recipe, and why this dish is a must-try for anyone following a keto lifestyle.

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Why You’ll Love These Keto Big Mac Smash Burgers

1. Low-Carb and Keto-Friendly: Each burger contains only 2 grams of net carbs, making it a guilt-free indulgence for keto dieters.
2. Quick and Easy: With a total prep and cook time of just 23 minutes, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights.
3. Big Mac Flavor: The homemade keto Big Mac sauce brings all the iconic flavors of the classic burger without the carbs.
4. Versatile: These smash burgers are great for cookouts, family dinners, or meal prep.

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Ingredients for Keto Big Mac Smash Burgers

For the Smash Burgers:

• 8 Street Taco-Sized Keto Zero Carb Tortillas: These serve as the perfect low-carb base for your smash burgers.
• 1 pound Ground Beef: Opt for 80/20 ground beef for the juiciest results.
• 8 slices American Cheese: Melty and delicious, this cheese adds the perfect finishing touch.
• 1 cup Shredded Lettuce: For a fresh, crunchy texture.
• 1/2 cup Dill Pickle Slices: Adds a tangy, briny flavor.
• 1/2 tsp Garlic Powder: Enhances the savory taste of the beef.
• Salt and Pepper: To taste.

For the Keto Big Mac Sauce:

• 1/3 cup Mayonnaise: The base of the sauce, providing creaminess.
• 1 tbsp Finely Chopped Dill Pickles: Adds a tangy crunch.
• 1 1/2 tsp Yellow Mustard: For a hint of sharpness.
• 3 tsp Sugar-Free Ketchup: Keeps the sauce low-carb while adding sweetness.
• 1/4 tsp Vinegar: Balances the flavors.
• 1/4 tsp Paprika: Adds a smoky depth.
• 1/4 tsp Garlic Powder: Enhances the savory notes.
• 1/4 tsp Onion Powder: Complements the garlic powder for a well-rounded flavor.

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Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Keto Big Mac Sauce

1. In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, finely chopped dill pickles, yellow mustard, sugar-free ketchup, vinegar, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder.
2. Stir until all ingredients are well incorporated.
3. Set the sauce aside to allow the flavors to meld while you prepare the burgers.

Step 2: Make the Smash Burgers

1. Heat the Skillet: Place a large skillet over medium-high heat and let it get hot.
2. Season the Beef: In a mixing bowl, combine the ground beef with garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Knead the mixture gently to ensure even seasoning.
3. Form the Patties: Divide the beef mixture into 8 evenly sized balls.
4. Smash the Burgers: Place one ball of beef onto a keto tortilla and press it down until it covers the entire surface. Repeat with the remaining beef and tortillas.
5. Cook the Burgers: Place the tortillas meat-side down into the hot skillet. Cook for 3-4 minutes, using a spatula to smash the burgers flat. This creates a crispy, caramelized crust.
6. Add Cheese: Flip the burgers over, place a slice of American cheese on each one, and cook for another 2-3 minutes until the cheese is melted and the tortilla is crispy.

Step 3: Assemble the Burgers

1. Spread the Sauce: Once the burgers are cooked, spread a generous amount of the keto Big Mac sauce over each one.
2. Add Toppings: Top each burger with shredded lettuce and two pickle slices.
3. Serve and Enjoy: Serve immediately while hot and enjoy your low-carb, keto-friendly Big Mac smash burgers!

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The History and Popularity of Smash Burgers

Smash burgers have taken the culinary world by storm, and for good reason. This cooking technique, which involves smashing a ball of ground beef onto a hot griddle or skillet, creates a burger with an irresistible crispy crust and juicy interior. The method originated in the United States, with many crediting the technique to classic diners and fast-food joints that sought to create a quick, flavorful burger. The smash burger’s rise in popularity can be attributed to its simplicity and the unique texture it delivers. Unlike traditional burgers, which are often thick and grilled, smash burgers are thin, crispy, and packed with flavor.

The appeal of smash burgers lies in their caramelized crust, which forms when the beef comes into direct contact with the hot cooking surface. This crust, known as the Maillard reaction, is a chemical process that occurs when proteins and sugars in the meat are exposed to high heat, resulting in a rich, savory flavor. The thin patty also cooks quickly, making smash burgers a favorite for busy kitchens and fast-food restaurants.

In recent years, smash burgers have gained a cult following among food enthusiasts and home cooks. Social media platforms like Instagram and TikTok are filled with videos of chefs and foodies smashing burgers on sizzling griddles, showcasing the satisfying process and mouthwatering results. The trend has even inspired restaurants dedicated solely to smash burgers, further cementing their place in modern cuisine.

For keto dieters, smash burgers are a perfect fit. By using low-carb tortillas or lettuce wraps instead of traditional buns, you can enjoy all the crispy, juicy goodness of a smash burger without the carbs. The Keto Big Mac Smash Burgers recipe takes this concept to the next level by incorporating the iconic flavors of a Big Mac, making it a must-try for anyone on a low-carb diet.

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 The Secret to Perfect Keto Big Mac Sauce

The key to any great Big Mac-inspired dish is the sauce, and this Keto Big Mac Smash Burgers recipe delivers a low-carb version that’s just as delicious as the original. The sauce is a creamy, tangy blend of mayonnaise, pickles, mustard, and spices, with a hint of sweetness from sugar-free ketchup. It’s the perfect complement to the savory beef and melty cheese in these smash burgers.

Creating a keto-friendly version of Big Mac sauce requires a few simple substitutions. Traditional Big Mac sauce contains sugar, which is a no-go for keto dieters. By using sugar-free ketchup and finely chopped dill pickles, this recipe achieves the same sweet-and-tangy flavor without the carbs. The addition of paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder adds depth and complexity, making the sauce truly irresistible.

One of the best things about this keto Big Mac sauce is its versatility. While it’s perfect for these smash burgers, you can also use it as a dip for low-carb fries, a dressing for salads, or a topping for grilled chicken. It’s so good, you’ll want to make a double batch and keep it on hand for all your keto meals.

To ensure the sauce is as flavorful as possible, let it sit for at least 10 minutes before using. This allows the ingredients to meld together, creating a harmonious blend of flavors. If you have leftovers, store the sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just give it a quick stir before using it again.

The keto Big Mac sauce is what sets these smash burgers apart from other low-carb burger recipes. It’s the perfect combination of creamy, tangy, and savory, making every bite a delight. Whether you’re a longtime keto dieter or just starting out, this sauce is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

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 Tips for Making the Best Keto Smash Burgers

Making the perfect Keto Big Mac Smash Burgers requires a few key techniques to ensure they’re crispy, juicy, and full of flavor. Here are some tips to help you master this recipe:

1. Use the Right Ground Beef: For the juiciest burgers, opt for 80/20 ground beef. The higher fat content ensures a flavorful, moist patty. Leaner cuts can result in dry burgers, so stick with 80/20 for the best results.
2. Preheat Your Skillet: A hot skillet is essential for creating the crispy crust that makes smash burgers so delicious. Let your skillet heat up over medium-high heat for a few minutes before adding the burgers.
3. Don’t Overwork the Beef: When forming the beef balls, handle the meat as little as possible. Overworking the beef can lead to tough burgers. Gently shape the balls and press them onto the tortillas for the best texture.
4. Smash the Burgers Thin: Use a sturdy spatula to press the beef balls into thin patties. The thinner the patty, the crispier the crust. Don’t be afraid to really smash them down!
5. Add Cheese at the Right Time: Place the cheese on the burgers during the last 2-3 minutes of cooking. This allows it to melt perfectly without burning.
6. Customize Your Toppings: While this recipe includes shredded lettuce and pickles, feel free to add other keto-friendly toppings like sliced onions, tomatoes, or avocado.
7. Make Extra Sauce: The keto Big Mac sauce is so delicious, you’ll want to have extra on hand. Use it as a dip, dressing, or topping for other dishes.

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Nutritional Information

Each serving of these Keto Big Mac Smash Burgers contains:

• Calories: 365
• Net Carbs: 2 grams
• Protein: 20 grams
• Fat: 28 grams

Note: Nutritional information is approximate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Make These Burgers Ahead of Time?

Yes! You can prepare the keto Big Mac sauce and form the beef patties ahead of time. Store them separately in the refrigerator and cook the burgers when ready to serve.

Can I Use a Different Type of Cheese?

Absolutely! While American cheese is classic for its meltability, you can substitute it with cheddar, pepper jack, or any other keto-friendly cheese.

Are These Burgers Gluten-Free?

Yes, as long as you use gluten-free keto tortillas, these burgers are gluten-free.

Can I Cook These on a Grill?

While this recipe is designed for stovetop cooking, you can adapt it for a grill. Use a cast-iron skillet or griddle on the grill to smash and cook the burgers.

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Why This Recipe Works for Keto

The Keto Big Mac Smash Burgers recipe is a fantastic option for anyone following a ketogenic diet. By using keto-friendly tortillas and sugar-free ingredients, this dish keeps the carb count low while delivering all the flavors you love. The homemade Big Mac sauce is the star of the show, providing that signature taste without the added sugars found in traditional recipes.

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Final Thoughts

These Keto Big Mac Smash Burgers are a game-changer for anyone on a low-carb or keto diet. They’re quick, easy, and packed with flavor, making them a perfect addition to your recipe rotation. Whether you’re hosting a cookout or simply craving a delicious burger, this recipe is sure to satisfy.