Seasoned and smashed beef patties on tortillas with cheese, lettuce, pickles, and a homemade Big Mac sauce make these Big Mac Smashburger Tacos a unique dinner idea and they taste irresistible!
Big Mac Smashburger Tacos: Your New Favorite Fast Food Fusion
Get ready to revolutionize your dinner table with a culinary creation that’s sweeping the food world: Big Mac Smashburger Tacos! This ingenious recipe masterfully combines the iconic, savory goodness of a classic Big Mac with the fun, handheld delight of crispy street tacos, all elevated by the irresistible smashburger technique. Imagine perfectly seasoned, thin beef patties, expertly smashed directly onto warm tortillas, then crowned with gooey American cheese, crisp shredded lettuce, tangy pickles, diced onions, and a generous drizzle of that legendary, secret Big Mac-style sauce. It’s a dinner idea that is not only unique but promises to be utterly irresistible, delivering a flavor explosion in every bite. Whether you’re a long-time fan of Big Macs or simply seeking an exciting new taco experience, this fusion dish is guaranteed to become a family favorite.
A Quick and Satisfying Meal: Big Mac Smashburger Tacos Ready in Minutes
Who says incredible flavor and gourmet experiences have to take hours in the kitchen? These Big Mac Smashburger Tacos are not just packed with incredible taste; they’re also incredibly fast to prepare, making them an ideal solution for busy weeknights. With only about 10 minutes of active cooking time per batch, you can have a feast on the table in under 30 minutes total! This recipe brilliantly fuses two beloved fast-food staples into one epic, mouthwatering dish. The magic happens by smashing thin burger patties right onto your favorite street taco tortillas, creating an incredibly crispy, caramelized crust that locks in all the juicy beef flavor. Once flipped, these patties are quickly adorned with slices of melty American cheese, followed by the quintessential Big Mac fixings: finely shredded lettuce, crunchy pickles, and diced onions. The crowning glory is, of course, a generous drizzle of our homemade Big Mac-style sauce. The simplicity, speed, and sheer deliciousness make this an absolute must-try. Plus, having another fantastic reason to whip up a batch of that versatile Big Mac Sauce is always a bonus!
Frequently Asked Questions About Big Mac Smashburger Tacos
Can I use a store-bought sauce as a substitute for the homemade Big Mac sauce?
Certainly! While our homemade Big Mac sauce recipe is truly designed to replicate the authentic flavor and is highly recommended for the full experience, we understand that sometimes convenience is key. If you’re short on time or prefer a quicker option, you can absolutely opt for a store-bought burger sauce. Many reputable brands now offer excellent “secret sauce” or “special sauce” products that mimic the classic Big Mac flavor profile quite well. For example, Walmart’s Great Value Secret Sauce or Kinder’s The Burger Sauce are both popular options that would work nicely, speeding up your preparation without compromising too much on flavor.
How can I modify this recipe to utilize an entire pack of tortillas?
Street taco tortillas typically come in packs of 12, whereas this recipe is originally scaled to make 8 tacos. If your goal is to use up all 12 tortillas in the pack, it’s an easy adjustment! You’ll simply need to increase your ground beef quantity by an additional 1/2 pound. This extra meat will allow you to form 4 more patties, bringing your total to 12 delicious Big Mac Smashburger Tacos. You might also consider slightly increasing the amounts of your other fresh toppings and Big Mac sauce ingredients to ensure every taco is generously loaded and perfectly balanced in flavor.
Can Big Mac Smashburger Tacos be made on a Blackstone or similar flat top grill?
Absolutely! In fact, preparing these tacos on a Blackstone griddle or any similar flat top grill is an excellent idea and highly recommended. The large, even heating surface of a griddle is perfectly suited for the smashburger technique, allowing you to cook multiple tacos simultaneously and achieve that enviable, uniform crispy sear on the beef patties. The process remains the same: ensure your griddle is preheated to medium-high for the initial smashing and searing. If your griddle has different heat zones, you can then move the tacos to a slightly cooler section or reduce the heat for the cheese melting step, following the directions as outlined in the main recipe.
Is it possible to smash the burger patties directly onto the skillet with the tortilla placed on top?
Yes, you certainly can! While our recipe suggests pressing the beef onto the tortilla before it hits the pan, many home cooks find success by placing a ball of ground beef directly onto the hot skillet, then immediately laying a tortilla on top of the raw patty and smashing down. This method also works effectively, as the beef adheres to the tortilla as it cooks. Some chefs argue that this can create an even crispier edge. However, by pre-smashing the burger onto the tortilla, you often achieve a more consistently thin and even patty, ensuring maximum crispiness and better coverage of the tortilla. Feel free to experiment with both techniques to discover which method you prefer for your ideal Big Mac Smashburger Tacos.
What is the advantage of using two pans for this recipe?
Using a second pan, maintained on low heat, is a valuable technique for achieving optimal results with these tacos, although it’s not strictly mandatory. The primary benefit is to prevent the tortilla from burning or becoming overly crisp. The initial high heat required for searing and smashing the beef patty can quickly char the delicate tortilla if you’re not exceptionally attentive. By transferring the taco to a separate, lower-heat pan after the beef is beautifully seared, you can gently melt the cheese and warm the tortilla through without risking overcooking or making it too brittle. This ensures the tortilla remains wonderfully pliable and easy to fold, while still developing a slight, delicious char for added flavor. If you’re working with a single pan, be extra vigilant with your heat management and cooking times to achieve a similar outcome.
How long are Big Mac Smashburger Tacos good for as leftovers? Can they be frozen?
Leftover Big Mac Smashburger Tacos can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It’s worth noting that the tortillas may soften or become slightly soggy over time, especially if they’ve been dressed with sauce. For the best reheating experience, gently warm them in a dry skillet or an air fryer to help crisp up the tortilla again. As for freezing, yes, these tacos can be frozen! Place them in a freezer-safe container, or wrap them individually in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil for extra protection against freezer burn. They will maintain good quality in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat from frozen, warm them in an oven (around 350°F or 175°C) or an air fryer until heated through, understanding that the texture of the tortilla might be slightly different after freezing and thawing.
Essential Ingredients for Your Big Mac Smashburger Tacos
Crafting these sensational Big Mac Smashburger Tacos requires a thoughtful selection of ingredients, most of which are readily available at your local grocery store. Here’s a detailed breakdown of what you’ll need to bring this extraordinary fusion dish to life:
- Street Size Tortillas: These small, versatile tortillas form the perfect base for our handheld tacos. You can choose between corn or flour tortillas; both varieties work wonderfully. Corn tortillas offer a more traditional taco experience with a slightly earthy flavor, while flour tortillas tend to be softer and more pliable, making them excellent for folding and holding all the delicious fillings.
- Ground Beef: For the best smashburger experience, we highly recommend using 80/20 ground beef. The higher fat content is crucial for developing that rich, juicy flavor and crispy, caramelized crust when smashed. While 80/20 is ideal, if you prefer a leaner option, like 90/10, be aware that it might shrink slightly more during cooking. Remember to season your beef generously!
- American Cheese: To truly capture that authentic Big Mac taste, American cheese is absolutely essential. Its unique melting properties ensure a perfectly gooey, rich texture that beautifully blankets the hot beef patty. If you’re on a quest for American cheese that closely mimics the taste and texture found at McDonald’s, consider trying the American deli cheese from Walmart. For those who enjoy a little extra zing, Pepper Jack cheese makes a fantastic, flavorful alternative.
- Salt and Pepper: The foundational seasonings for your beef patties. These simple spices are critical for enhancing the meat’s natural flavors and contributing to that savory crust. For an added layer of robust flavor, consider experimenting with your favorite steak seasoning blend.
- Big Mac Sauce Ingredients: This homemade “secret sauce” is the heart and soul of the Big Mac experience, transforming ordinary ingredients into something extraordinary. You will need:
- Mayonnaise: Forms the creamy, rich base of the sauce.
- French Dressing: Contributes a distinctive tangy and subtly sweet element that is characteristic of the classic sauce. If French dressing isn’t your preferred choice, you can explore other Big Mac sauce variations, such as the recipe provided in our popular Big Mac Salad recipe.
- Dill Pickle Relish: Essential for that signature tangy, briny crunch and vibrant flavor. If relish isn’t on hand, finely dicing fresh dill pickles works just as well. For a slightly sweeter profile, sweet relish can be used instead.
- Dried Minced Onion: Delivers a concentrated, savory onion flavor that rehydrates beautifully within the sauce, adding depth without overwhelming.
- Granulated Sugar: A touch of sugar is vital for balancing the acidity of the vinegar and relish, adding a hint of sweetness to the sauce.
- White Vinegar: Enhances the sauce’s tanginess and brightens the overall flavor profile, mimicking the classic Big Mac zing.
- Garlic Cloves: Freshly minced garlic offers the best aromatic depth, but for convenience, jarred minced garlic is a perfectly acceptable and effective substitute.
- A Pinch of Salt: To harmoniously blend and round out all the flavors in the sauce.
- Topping Ideas: While the traditional Big Mac components include crisp shredded lettuce, finely diced onion, and tangy pickle slices, the beauty of these tacos lies in their versatility. Feel free to customize your smashburger tacos with any burger toppings you adore! Consider additions like sliced tomatoes, thinly sliced jalapeños for a kick, or even a sprinkle of sesame seeds on the tortilla for an extra nod to the burger bun.
How to Master Big Mac Smashburger Tacos: A Step-by-Step Guide
Creating these incredible Big Mac Smashburger Tacos is surprisingly straightforward and incredibly rewarding. By following these clear, step-by-step instructions, you’ll achieve restaurant-quality results right in your own kitchen:
Step 1: Prepare the Signature Big Mac Sauce
Begin by making the heart of this dish – the Big Mac sauce. In a small mixing bowl, combine all the sauce ingredients: mayonnaise, French dressing, dill pickle relish, dried minced onion, granulated sugar, white vinegar, minced garlic, and a pinch of salt. Whisk everything together thoroughly until the sauce is smooth, creamy, and all ingredients are fully incorporated. Taste the sauce and adjust seasonings if desired – perhaps a little more tang or sweetness to suit your preference. Set the finished sauce aside; allowing it to rest for a few minutes while you prepare the burgers can help the flavors meld and deepen beautifully.
Step 2: Prepare and Smash the Burger Patties onto Tortillas
Next, prepare your ground beef. Divide one pound of ground beef evenly into 8 equal portions, carefully forming each into a loose, roughly 2-ounce ball. This even division ensures consistent cooking and sizing for your tacos. Place one ground beef ball directly into the center of each street-size tortilla. Now, for the signature smashburger technique: using the palm of your hand or a sturdy spatula, firmly press and squish the burger meat onto the tortilla, spreading it out thinly and evenly all the way to the edges. Don’t be concerned if there’s a slight overhang of meat; it will naturally shrink a bit as it cooks. Repeat this smashing process for all 8 beef balls onto their respective tortillas.
Once the beef patties are perfectly smashed onto the tortillas, generously sprinkle each burger patty with salt and pepper. Alternatively, you can use your preferred steak seasoning blend for an extra layer of savory depth. This seasoning will be crucial in creating that delicious, crispy crust when the burger hits the hot pan.
Step 3: Sear the Smashburgers to Perfection
Heat a sturdy cast iron skillet or another heavy-bottomed frying pan over medium-high heat. It’s essential to get the pan piping hot to achieve that desirable crispy sear. Carefully place a burger-tortilla assembly into the hot skillet, with the beef-side down. Immediately use a solid metal spatula to press down firmly and evenly on the burger. Apply significant pressure to truly “smash” the meat onto the skillet surface, ensuring maximum contact for that signature crispy, caramelized crust. Hold this pressure for a few seconds. Set a timer for approximately two minutes, and continue to press and smash periodically throughout this cooking time to achieve an even sear and prevent the patty from puffing up. This continuous smashing is key to the smashburger technique.
Step 4: Melt the Cheese and Finish Cooking
While your first batch of burgers is searing on high heat, begin heating a separate skillet over very low heat. This second pan will serve as your “warming pan” to gently melt the cheese and ensure the tortilla remains perfectly pliable. Once the two minutes are up for your smashburger in the hot skillet, use your spatula to carefully lift it. Flip it over so the tortilla side is now down, and immediately transfer it to the second, lower-heat skillet. Quickly place a slice of American cheese on top of the hot burger patty. Allow the cheese to melt slightly, becoming beautifully gooey and embracing the beef, which should only take about 30-60 seconds on low heat. The gentle heat in the second pan is crucial for preventing the tortilla from burning while the cheese reaches its perfect melted state.
Once the cheese is melted to your liking, remove the finished Big Mac Smashburger Taco to a serving platter. Repeat this precise searing and melting process with the remaining burger-tortilla assemblies until all are cooked to perfection, ensuring each taco gets its moment of cheesy glory.
Step 5: Assemble and Serve Your Irresistible Tacos
The grand finale! Once all your Big Mac Smashburger Tacos are cooked, it’s time to assemble and serve. Arrange your freshly cooked tacos on a platter. Now, for the quintessential Big Mac experience, generously top each taco with a mound of crisp shredded lettuce, a scattering of finely diced onions, and several tangy pickle slices. Finally, drizzle a liberal amount of your prepared homemade Big Mac sauce over all the toppings. For easy eating, simply fold the tacos in half. Serve immediately and watch them disappear! The combination of crispy beef, soft tortilla, melty cheese, and vibrant toppings with that unmistakable sauce creates a symphony of flavors and textures that is truly unforgettable.
Expert Tips for Crafting the Perfect Big Mac Smashburger Tacos
Achieving smashburger perfection on a tortilla is simple with a few insider tricks. Keep these tips in mind for consistently delicious results:
- Don’t Overwork the Meat: When forming your ground beef into balls, handle it gently. Overworking the meat can lead to tough, dense patties, which is the opposite of what we want for a tender smashburger.
- Preheat Your Pan Thoroughly: A smoking hot skillet is absolutely essential for creating that desirable crispy crust characteristic of a smashburger. Don’t rush this step; allow your pan to heat up sufficiently before adding the meat.
- Use a Heavy Spatula for the Smash: A sturdy, solid metal spatula is key to getting a really good, thin smash on your patties. If you have trouble applying enough pressure, a clean, foil-wrapped brick or another heavy, flat object can assist in getting that perfect, even smash. Remember, the flatter the patty, the crispier the result.
- Season Generously: Don’t be shy with the salt and pepper (or steak seasoning)! Proper seasoning is crucial for infusing flavor into the meat and contributing to the delicious crust.
- American Cheese is Non-Negotiable (for authenticity): While you can experiment with other cheeses, American cheese is preferred for its exceptional meltability and classic Big Mac flavor profile. It creates that signature gooey layer that perfectly clings to the beef.
- Warm Your Tortillas: Ensure your tortillas are slightly warmed and pliable before you smash the beef onto them. This helps them hold together better during the smashing and cooking process and prevents tearing.
- Fresh Toppings Make a Difference: The crispness of fresh shredded lettuce, the sharp bite of diced onions, and the tangy crunch of pickles are vital for recreating that authentic Big Mac magic and providing textural contrast.
Serving Suggestions and Delicious Variations
These Big Mac Smashburger Tacos are a fantastic stand-alone meal, but you can effortlessly elevate the dining experience with a few thoughtful accompaniments or by experimenting with creative variations:
- Classic Accompaniments: Serve your tacos alongside a batch of perfectly crispy French fries, golden onion rings, or a simple, refreshing green salad to cut through the richness.
- Sauce Bar: While the homemade Big Mac sauce is a star, consider offering additional condiments like extra ketchup, mustard, or even a zesty sriracha aioli for those who enjoy a little heat.
- Cheese Adventures: Beyond American cheese, feel free to experiment! Sharp cheddar, creamy Monterey Jack, or even a smoky provolone could offer interesting flavor twists.
- Protein Swaps: While ground beef is traditional, you could try ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version, though the flavor profile would naturally shift away from the classic Big Mac. Ensure these leaner meats are seasoned well.
- Plant-Based Option: For vegetarian or vegan guests, quality plant-based ground meat alternatives can be easily substituted, following the same smashing and cooking method.
- Add Bacon: Crispy bacon bits are always a welcome addition, adding another layer of smoky flavor and delightful crunch, reminiscent of a bacon cheeseburger.
- Spicy Kick: For heat lovers, incorporate some finely sliced jalapeños into your toppings, or add a dash of your favorite hot sauce directly into the Big Mac sauce for an extra zing.
Crave More Fast Food Inspired Recipes?
If you’ve fallen in love with the innovative and utterly delicious twist of these Big Mac Smashburger Tacos, then you’re in for a treat! Our kitchen is a hub of creativity, constantly transforming beloved fast-food classics into incredible homemade meals. Explore more ways to enjoy your favorite flavors with a homemade touch and continue your culinary adventure:
- Big Mac Salad: All the Big Mac flavors in a fresh, satisfying salad format.
- Big Mac Wraps: A lighter, yet equally delicious way to enjoy the classic taste.
- Big Mac Sliders: Perfect for parties or a fun mini-burger night.
- Big Mac Sloppy Joes: A hearty, comforting meal featuring that iconic sauce.
- Taco Bake: A layered casserole delivering all your favorite taco flavors.
- Taco Bell Enchiritos: Recreate a beloved fast-food menu item at home.
- Baked Tacos: Easy-to-make crispy tacos baked to perfection.
- Homemade Steakburgers: For when you’re craving a classic, juicy burger.
Big Mac Smashburger Tacos Recipe Card
Smashed burger patties on street taco tortillas, loaded with classic Big Mac sauce, crisp lettuce, melty cheese, tangy pickles, and savory onions – a truly irresistible fusion!
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10 minutes
15-20 minutes
8
Brandie Skibinski
Ingredients
Smashburger Tacos:
- 12 count pack street size tortillas (corn or flour)
- 1 pound ground beef (80/20 recommended; use a leaner meat for less shrinkage)
- 8 slices American cheese
- ¼ to ½ cup finely diced onion
- Sliced pickles (for serving)
- Shredded lettuce (for serving)
- Salt and pepper (or steak seasoning)
Big Mac Sauce:
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 2 Tablespoons French dressing
- 1 Tablespoon dill pickle relish
- 1 Tablespoon minced onion (dried or fresh, finely diced)
- 1 ½ teaspoons granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon white vinegar
- 1 clove garlic (minced)
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
Prepare the Big Mac Sauce: In a small bowl, combine all the sauce ingredients: mayonnaise, French dressing, dill pickle relish, minced onion (dried or fresh), granulated sugar, white vinegar, minced garlic, and a pinch of salt. Whisk thoroughly until well combined. Set aside to allow the flavors to meld.
Form Burger Patties: Divide the ground beef evenly into 8 balls, each weighing about 2 ounces. Place each ground beef ball directly onto the center of a street-size tortilla.
Smash onto Tortillas and Season: Using your hands or a sturdy spatula, firmly press and squish each burger ball onto its tortilla, spreading the meat thinly and evenly to the edges. Don’t worry if it slightly overhangs, as it will shrink when cooked. Repeat for all 8 tortillas. Liberally sprinkle each burger patty with salt and pepper, or your preferred steak seasoning.
Sear the Smashburgers (Beef-Side Down): Heat a cast iron skillet (or heavy-bottomed pan) over medium-high heat until hot. Carefully place a burger-tortilla assembly into the hot skillet, beef-side down. Immediately use a sturdy metal spatula to press down firmly and continuously on the burger, smashing it thin and creating good contact with the hot surface. Hold the pressure for a few seconds. Cook for approximately two minutes, continuing to press and smash often during this time to achieve a crispy, seared crust.
Maintain Smashing for Crispiness: Ensure you maintain pressure with your spatula, ensuring the meat continues to sear and crisp up during the full two minutes. This constant smashing is vital for achieving the signature thin and crispy smashburger texture.
Melt Cheese on Second Pan: While the first burgers are cooking, heat a separate skillet over very low heat. When the two minutes are up for a smashburger, use your spatula to carefully lift it and immediately transfer it, tortilla-side down, to the second, lower-heat skillet. Place a slice of American cheese on top of the hot burger patty and allow it to melt gently for about 30-60 seconds, until gooey. This technique prevents the tortilla from burning while ensuring perfect cheese melt. Remove to a platter and repeat with remaining burgers.
Serve and Enjoy: Once all tacos are cooked, serve them immediately with your chosen toppings. For a classic Big Mac experience, load them up with fresh shredded lettuce, finely diced onion, tangy pickle slices, and a generous drizzle of your prepared Big Mac sauce. Fold in half and savor every bite!
Notes
- Please refer to our detailed Frequently Asked Questions and ingredient list sections above for more in-depth substitutions, helpful tips, and answers to the most common questions you might have about this recipe.
Dinner, Main Course
American
Nutrition Information (Estimated)
| Carbohydrates: 27g
| Protein: 18g
| Fat: 34g
| Sodium: 857mg
| Fiber: 2g
| Sugar: 4g
Nutritional Disclaimer
“The Country Cook” is not a registered dietitian or nutritionist, and any nutritional information provided here is an estimate. This information is based on the ingredients and preparation methods described in this recipe. If precise calorie counts and other nutritional values are crucial for your dietary needs, we highly recommend running the specific ingredients and brands you use through your preferred online nutritional calculator. Please be aware that nutritional values can vary quite significantly based on product brands, exact quantities, and any substitutions made.
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