If you’re craving a burger but want to keep it keto-friendly, these Easy Keto Big Mac Smash Burgers are just what you need! They are juicy, tasty, and fun to make.
With just a few simple ingredients like ground beef, cheese, and your favorite toppings, you can whip them up in no time. I love serving them with a side salad to keep things light and fresh!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I recommend using a mix that’s 80% lean and 20% fat for the juiciest burgers. If you’re looking for alternatives, ground turkey or chicken work well, but expect a leaner burger with less intensity.
Cheese: Sharp cheddar adds a nice bite to these burgers. You can substitute with pepper jack for a spicy kick or mozzarella for a milder taste. Each cheese gives a unique twist!
Low-Carb Tortillas: For wrapping, opt for low-carb tortillas or keto flatbread. If you can’t find them, lettuce leaves can work as a fresh and crunchy alternative.
Sauces: The homemade sauce is key! If you’re out of ingredients, Greek yogurt can replace mayo for a lighter sauce, and use mustard without sugar to keep it keto-friendly.
How to Smash Burgers Perfectly?
Smashing the patties is essential for this recipe to achieve that crispy texture. Here’s how to do it right:
- Start with a hot skillet—this will sear the beef beautifully.
- Once you drop the beef ball in the skillet, use a sturdy spatula to press down firmly and evenly, creating a thin patty.
- Let it cook undisturbed for the first few minutes to develop a nice crust before flipping.
- Always add cheese right after flipping! This helps it melt perfectly while the patty finishes cooking.
With these tricks, you’ll get delicious smash burgers every time! Enjoy making your Easy Keto Big Mac Smash Burgers!
Easy Keto Big Mac Smash Burgers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef (80/20 lean-to-fat ratio)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 4 slices sharp cheddar cheese
- 4 low-carb tortillas or keto-friendly flatbread (to replace buns)
- 1 cup shredded iceberg lettuce
- 8 pickle slices
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons keto-friendly ketchup (or low-carb ketchup)
- 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes of prep time and around 10 minutes of cooking, so you can enjoy delicious, keto-friendly burgers in just about 25 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Skillet:
Start by heating a large skillet or griddle over medium-high heat. It needs to be hot to sear the beef nicely.
2. Prepare the Beef:
Divide the ground beef into 4 equal portions. Roll each portion into a loose ball, but don’t pack it too tightly.
3. Smash the Patties:
Place each beef ball onto the hot skillet. Using a spatula, smash the ball down flat to create a thin patty, then season it with salt and pepper.
4. Cook the Patties:
Let the patties cook for about 2–3 minutes on one side. They should be browned and crispy on the edges before flipping.
5. Add Cheese:
Flip each patty and immediately place a slice of cheddar cheese on top. Cook for another 1–2 minutes until the cheese is melted and the patty is fully cooked.
6. Warm the Tortillas:
While the patties are cooking, warm the low-carb tortillas or keto flatbreads in another pan or microwave until they are soft and pliable.
7. Make the Sauce:
In a small bowl, mix the mayonnaise, keto-friendly ketchup, yellow mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika until well blended. This will be your “Big Mac” sauce!
8. Assemble the Burgers:
Spread a generous amount of the sauce onto each warmed tortilla. Then layer on the cheese-topped patty, followed by pickle slices and shredded iceberg lettuce.
9. Wrap and Serve:
Fold the tortilla around the fillings like a taco to keep everything inside. Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious Easy Keto Big Mac Smash Burgers!
These juicy burgers are not only quick to make but also fit perfectly into your low-carb lifestyle! Happy cooking!
FAQ for Easy Keto Big Mac Smash Burgers
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Yes, you can use ground turkey for a leaner option! Keep in mind that turkey may result in a drier burger, so consider adding a little olive oil or an egg to help retain moisture during the cooking process.
How Do I Store Leftover Burgers?
If you have leftovers, store the assembled burgers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, gently warm in a skillet over low heat to avoid sogginess.
Can I Freeze These Burgers?
Absolutely! You can freeze the cooked patties and cheese separately. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They should be good for up to 3 months. Reheat from frozen in the oven or skillet when ready to eat.
What Toppings Can I Add?
Feel free to customize your burgers! You can add sliced avocado, diced tomatoes, or even crispy bacon for extra flavor. Just ensure any additions align with your keto diet preferences!
