Big Mac lovers rejoice! If you’re following a ketogenic or low-carb diet but craving that iconic fast-food taste, we’ve got the perfect recipe for you: Keto Big Mac Smash Burgers. With all the flavors of a classic Big Mac — juicy beef, tangy pickles, crispy lettuce, and that signature sauce — this recipe will satisfy your cravings without throwing you out of ketosis. Plus, smash burgers are all the rage right now, thanks to their thin, crispy edges and juicy centers. Let’s dive into this mouthwatering recipe!
Ingredients You’ll Need for Keto Big Mac Smash Burgers
Making these burgers at home is easier than you think. The ingredients for the burger are fairly simple, but what makes it unique is the Big Mac sauce — all keto-friendly, of course! Here’s what you’ll need:
For the Smash Burgers:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 ratio for juiciness)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 4 slices of cheddar cheese (American cheese works too if you prefer)
- Butter or avocado oil, for cooking
- 4 large lettuce leaves (for wrapping)
For the Keto Big Mac Sauce:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise (look for sugar-free brands)
- 1 tbsp mustard
- 2 tbsp sugar-free ketchup
- 1 tbsp white vinegar
- 2 tsp dill pickle relish (sugar-free)
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional Toppings:
- Dill pickles, sliced
- Sliced onions
- Shredded lettuce
How to Make Keto Big Mac Smash Burgers
Now that you’ve got all the ingredients ready, let’s get into the cooking process. This recipe is quick, fun, and easy to follow. Whether you’re hosting a keto-friendly BBQ or just whipping up dinner on a weeknight, these smash burgers will impress.
Step 1: Prepare the Big Mac Sauce
The key to a good Big Mac is the sauce, so we’ll start with that. In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, mustard, sugar-free ketchup, white vinegar, dill pickle relish, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika. Stir everything together until smooth, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Let the sauce chill in the fridge while you prepare the burgers — this helps the flavors meld together beautifully.
Step 2: Shape the Burger Patties
For smash burgers, you don’t want thick patties. Instead, form your ground beef into 4 loose balls, about 4 oz each. Don’t pack them tightly, as this can make the burgers tough. You want them to remain juicy inside while developing a crispy, caramelized exterior.
Step 3: Cook the Smash Burgers
Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium-high heat. Add a little butter or avocado oil to the pan to prevent sticking, then place the burger balls onto the hot surface. Use a spatula or burger press to firmly smash the balls into thin patties. The key is to get them nice and flat. Season with salt and pepper while cooking.
Cook the patties for about 2-3 minutes on one side until they develop a rich, golden-brown crust. Flip the burgers and cook for another 1-2 minutes. Immediately place a slice of cheddar cheese on top of each patty so it melts while the burger finishes cooking.
Step 4: Assemble the Keto Big Mac Smash Burgers
Now comes the fun part — assembling your burgers! Lay a large lettuce leaf on your plate to act as your “bun.” Place one of the cheese-covered smash burgers onto the lettuce, then top with a generous spoonful of your keto-friendly Big Mac sauce. Add some sliced pickles, onions, and shredded lettuce for extra crunch. If you’re a double-decker fan, stack another burger patty on top with more sauce and toppings.
For an authentic Big Mac experience, serve your keto smash burgers with a side of cauliflower fries or a simple green salad.
Tips for the Best Keto Big Mac Smash Burgers
To ensure you get the tastiest burgers possible, here are a few tips to keep in mind:
- Use high-fat ground beef: The 80/20 ratio is perfect for smash burgers because the higher fat content keeps the patties moist and juicy. Leaner beef tends to dry out, which isn’t ideal for this type of burger.
- Don’t over-handle the meat: Form the ground beef into loose balls with minimal handling. Overworking the meat can make your burgers tough.
- Smash your patties firmly: The trick to a great smash burger is getting that thin, crispy crust. Use a sturdy spatula or burger press to flatten the burgers quickly and evenly.
- Add the cheese immediately: Placing the cheese on top of the patties as soon as you flip them allows it to melt perfectly, creating that gooey, delicious layer we all love.
- Chill the sauce: Preparing the Big Mac sauce ahead of time and letting it chill helps the flavors develop and ensures the sauce is thick and creamy when you serve it.
Keto Big Mac Smash Burgers: A Healthier Alternative
This recipe is a fantastic option for anyone following a low-carb or keto diet. By swapping the traditional burger buns for lettuce wraps, you’re eliminating unnecessary carbs without sacrificing flavor. Each bite is packed with juicy beef, melty cheese, tangy sauce, and crunchy toppings, making it just as satisfying as the original.
The Big Mac sauce, though traditionally made with sugar-laden ingredients, has been revamped here to suit a keto lifestyle. Using sugar-free ketchup and relish, along with full-fat mayonnaise, keeps the sauce both flavorful and keto-compliant. If you’re used to fast food but want a healthier option, this recipe is your new go-to.
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: 480
- Fat: 38g
- Protein: 25g
- Total Carbs: 5g
- Fiber: 1g
- Net Carbs: 4g
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different cheese for the burgers?
Yes, feel free to use any cheese that melts well, such as mozzarella or gouda. However, cheddar and American cheese are closest to the classic Big Mac flavor.
Is the Big Mac sauce keto-friendly?
Yes! We’ve adapted the sauce to be keto-friendly by using sugar-free ketchup and relish. It retains all the iconic flavors with a fraction of the carbs.
Can I freeze the burger patties?
Absolutely! You can freeze the uncooked beef patties for up to three months. Just thaw them in the fridge before smashing and cooking.
What sides go well with keto smash burgers?
Cauliflower fries, zucchini fries, or a fresh green salad are perfect low-carb sides. You can also make cheese crisps for an extra crunchy option.
Can I add bacon to my Big Mac Smash Burger?
Definitely! Bacon makes everything better and adds an extra layer of flavor to these keto-friendly burgers.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftover cooked burgers and sauce separately in airtight containers in the fridge. The burgers will keep for 3 days, and the sauce will stay fresh for about a week.
Conclusion
Keto Big Mac Smash Burgers offer the perfect blend of fast-food nostalgia and health-conscious eating. With their crispy edges, juicy interiors, and that unmistakable Big Mac sauce, these burgers are bound to be a hit at your next meal. Whether you’re on a ketogenic diet or simply looking for a delicious low-carb alternative to your favorite fast food, this recipe delivers all the flavor with none of the guilt.
Enjoy the best of both worlds with this keto-friendly twist on the iconic Big Mac!