Imagine the juicy flavors of a smash burger paired with the convenience of a taco. Smash Burger Tacos (Big Mac Tacos) bring these two favorites together for an irresistible meal that’s perfect for any occasion. With crispy tortillas, savory beef, melty cheese, fresh toppings, and a tangy Big Mac-inspired sauce, these tacos deliver bold flavors in every bite. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or looking for a quick dinner idea, this recipe will not disappoint!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Flavor Fusion: Combines the iconic taste of a Big Mac with the handheld convenience of tacos.
- Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for weeknights.
- Customizable: Adjust the toppings and spice level to suit your preferences.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Ideal for parties, family dinners, or game-day snacks.
- Balanced Texture: Crispy tortillas, juicy beef, creamy cheese, and crunchy lettuce make every bite unforgettable.
Ingredients
For the Big Mac Sauce
Ingredient | Quantity |
---|---|
Mayonnaise | 1/4 cup |
Ketchup | 3 tablespoons |
Sweet relish (or chopped pickles) | 1 tablespoon |
Yellow mustard | 1 teaspoon |
White vinegar | 1/2 teaspoon |
Sugar | 1/2 teaspoon |
Paprika | 1/4 teaspoon |
Garlic powder | 1/4 teaspoon |
Onion powder | 1/4 teaspoon |
For the Tacos
Ingredient | Quantity |
---|---|
Ground beef (80/20) | 1 pound |
Salt | To taste |
Black pepper | To taste |
Vegetable oil | 1 tablespoon |
Mini flour tortillas | 12 |
American cheese slices | 12 |
White onion (finely diced) | 1/2 |
Pickle slices | 24 |
Iceberg lettuce (shredded) | 1 cup |
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Make the Big Mac Sauce
- In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, ketchup, sweet relish, yellow mustard, white vinegar, sugar, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder.
- Mix thoroughly until smooth.
- Cover and refrigerate the sauce until needed. Chilling enhances the flavor.
2. Prepare the Beef
- Season the ground beef with salt and black pepper.
- Divide the beef into 12 equal portions. Roll each portion into a ball.
3. Cook the Beef
- Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium-high heat and add the vegetable oil.
- Place mini flour tortillas on the skillet, leaving enough space to smash the beef balls on top.
- Put one beef ball in the center of each tortilla.
- Using a sturdy spatula, press down firmly to smash the beef balls flat, spreading the meat to the edges of the tortillas.
- Cook for 2-3 minutes until the beef is browned and crispy around the edges.
4. Add the Cheese
- Flip the tortillas with the beef side up.
- Immediately place a slice of American cheese on top of each beef patty.
- Cook for another 1-2 minutes, allowing the cheese to melt completely.
5. Assemble the Tacos
- Remove the tacos from the skillet and arrange them on a serving platter.
- Top each taco with finely diced onion, pickle slices, and shredded iceberg lettuce.
- Drizzle or spread the prepared Big Mac sauce generously over the toppings.
6. Serve
- Serve the tacos immediately while they’re hot and the cheese is gooey.
- Pair with fries, a side salad, or your favorite drink for a complete meal.
Tips for Success
- Smash with Confidence: Press the beef balls firmly to ensure even cooking and crispy edges.
- Use High-Fat Beef: An 80/20 fat ratio gives the juiciest and most flavorful results.
- Prep Ahead: Make the Big Mac sauce in advance for enhanced flavor.
- Customize Toppings: Add jalapeños, tomatoes, or a sprinkle of shredded cheese for a personalized twist.
- Toast the Tortillas: For extra flavor, lightly toast the tortillas before adding the beef.
Nutritional Highlights
This recipe offers a flavorful balance of protein, fat, and carbs, making it both indulgent and satisfying.
- Ground Beef: Provides high-quality protein and essential vitamins like B12 and iron.
- Cheese: Adds calcium and creamy richness.
- Fresh Toppings: The lettuce, onion, and pickles add a refreshing crunch and boost the nutritional value.
Serving Suggestions
- As a Main Dish: Pair with crispy French fries or onion rings for a classic burger-inspired meal.
- For a Party: Serve as bite-sized sliders or mini tacos for easy sharing.
- Lighten It Up: Pair with a side salad or grilled vegetables for a balanced meal.
- Drinks to Pair: These tacos go great with sodas, milkshakes, or a refreshing iced tea.
Storage and Reheating
- Refrigeration: Store leftover tacos in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes or in the oven at 350°F until warm. Avoid microwaving to keep the tortillas from becoming soggy.
- Sauce Storage: The Big Mac sauce can be stored in a covered container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use corn tortillas instead of flour tortillas?
Yes, corn tortillas work well if you prefer their texture and flavor. Just make sure they are sturdy enough to hold the beef and toppings.
2. How do I make this recipe healthier?
Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef, swap full-fat cheese for reduced-fat cheese, and replace the mayo in the sauce with Greek yogurt.
3. Can I prepare the tacos in advance?
It’s best to cook and assemble these tacos fresh to preserve their texture, but you can make the Big Mac sauce ahead of time.
4. What’s the best way to smash the beef?
A sturdy metal spatula works best. To prevent sticking, lightly grease the spatula or use parchment paper as a barrier between the spatula and the beef.
5. Can I add extra toppings?
Absolutely! Bacon, jalapeños, sautéed mushrooms, or avocado slices make excellent additions to these tacos.
6. Can I grill the beef instead of cooking it on a skillet?
Yes, you can grill the beef patties separately and then assemble the tacos. However, the direct skillet method ensures the beef juices infuse into the tortillas for added flavor.
Conclusion
Smash Burger Tacos (Big Mac Tacos) are the ultimate combination of juicy burgers and delicious tacos, bringing together the best of both worlds. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this recipe is easy to make and packed with bold flavors. With a crispy tortilla base, savory beef, melty cheese, and a tangy Big Mac-inspired sauce, every bite is a crowd-pleaser.
Pro Tip: Double the recipe because these tacos disappear quickly. Grab your skillet, prepare the sauce, and treat yourself and your loved ones to this fun and flavorful twist on two classic favorites!
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Smash Burger Tacos (Big Mac Tacos): A Delicious Twist on a Classic
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 12 tacos
Description
Smash Burger Tacos (Big Mac Tacos) are the perfect fusion of juicy smash burgers and flavorful tacos. With crispy tortillas, savory beef, creamy melted cheese, and fresh toppings all drizzled with a tangy Big Mac-inspired sauce, this recipe is a guaranteed hit. Perfect for weeknight dinners, parties, or any occasion where you want a fun and delicious twist on a classic.
Ingredients
For the Big Mac Sauce
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 3 tablespoons ketchup
- 1 tablespoon sweet relish (or chopped pickles)
- 1 teaspoon yellow mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon white vinegar
- 1/2 teaspoon sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
For the Tacos
- 1 pound ground beef (80/20)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 12 mini flour tortillas
- 12 slices American cheese
- 1/2 white onion, finely diced
- 24 pickle slices
- 1 cup iceberg lettuce, shredded
Instructions
1. Make the Big Mac Sauce
- In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, ketchup, sweet relish, yellow mustard, white vinegar, sugar, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder.
- Stir thoroughly until all ingredients are well blended and smooth.
- Cover and refrigerate until ready to use. Chilling enhances the flavors.
2. Prepare the Beef
- In a mixing bowl, season the ground beef with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Divide the beef into 12 equal portions and roll each into a ball.
3. Cook the Beef
- Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium-high heat. Add vegetable oil and spread it evenly.
- Place the mini flour tortillas on the skillet, leaving enough space for the beef balls.
- Place one beef ball in the center of each tortilla.
- Using a sturdy spatula, press the beef balls firmly to flatten them onto the tortillas, spreading the beef to the edges.
- Cook for 2-3 minutes, allowing the beef to brown and crisp at the edges.
4. Add the Cheese
- Flip the tortillas with the beef side up.
- Immediately place a slice of American cheese on each patty.
- Cook for another 1-2 minutes until the cheese is melted and the tortilla is slightly crispy.
5. Assemble the Tacos
- Remove the tacos from the skillet and arrange them on a serving platter.
- Top each taco with finely diced onion, 2 pickle slices, and shredded iceberg lettuce.
- Drizzle or spread the prepared Big Mac sauce generously over the toppings.
6. Serve and Enjoy
- Serve the tacos immediately while they are hot and the cheese is melty.
- Pair with fries, a side salad, or your favorite beverage for the ultimate meal.
Notes
- Customize the Sauce: Add a splash of hot sauce or some sriracha to the Big Mac sauce for a spicy kick.
- Choose the Right Beef: Use ground beef with 80/20 fat content for the juiciest patties.
- Freezer-Friendly: You can freeze uncooked beef balls and assemble tacos later for quick meals.
- Healthier Option: Use ground turkey or chicken, low-fat cheese, and whole wheat tortillas for a lighter version.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American