Big Mac Style Smash Burger Tacos

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?

Craving a burger and tacos at the same time? Why not merge the best of both worlds into one insanely delicious creation? These Big Mac Style Smash Burger Tacos combine the seared, savory goodness of a classic smash burger with the crisp, handheld convenience of a taco. It’s a fast food fantasy turned homemade hero.

Each bite offers the familiar tang of pickles, the richness of American cheese, crunchy lettuce, and of course, that unmistakable creamy Big Mac-style sauce. All wrapped in a lightly toasted tortilla, these tacos are a mouthwatering twist for burger night or your next gathering.

---

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

To master these burger tacos, a few key tools will make a big difference:

• Cast Iron Skillet or Griddle: Essential for achieving that crisp, caramelized crust that defines a proper smash burger.
• Burger Press or Heavy Spatula: Needed to press the beef down thin to maximize that golden brown sear.
• Mixing Bowl & Whisk: For making the signature Big Mac-style sauce.
• Tongs or a Flat Turner: Handy for flipping tortillas and transferring the beef patties.
• Paper Towels: To soak excess grease if desired, keeping the tacos crisp but not oily.

Having your toppings prepped and tortillas warmed before smashing the patties ensures a quick, seamless assembly. The right gear turns this from a messy experiment to a foolproof favorite.

---

Ingredients for the Big Mac Style Smash Burger Tacos

• Ground Beef (80/20): Delivers the ideal fat content for juicy, flavorful smash patties.
• Small Tortillas: Replace the usual bun, providing the handheld taco element.
• American Cheese Slices: Melts smoothly and offers that nostalgic fast-food taste.
• Shredded Iceberg Lettuce: Brings crunch and freshness.
• Diced Onions: Adds sharpness and balances the richness.
• Sliced Dill Pickles: Classic Big Mac tang and texture.
• Big Mac-Style Sauce: The star condiment—creamy, tangy, and crave-worthy.
• Salt and Pepper: Simple seasoning to enhance the beef.

---

How To Make the Big Mac Style Smash Burger Tacos

Step 1: Prep the Sauce

In a bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, ketchup, mustard, relish, vinegar, garlic powder, and paprika until smooth. Chill in the fridge while preparing everything else.

Step 2: Shape & Season the Beef

Divide the ground beef into golf ball-sized portions. Season each ball with salt and pepper on both sides. Don’t flatten yet.

Step 3: Smash & Sear

Heat your skillet or griddle over medium-high heat. Place a tortilla down, top it with a beef ball, and use a burger press or spatula to smash the beef flat into the tortilla. Cook until beef edges are crispy and the bottom is golden, about 2-3 minutes. Flip and cook another 1-2 minutes.

Step 4: Add Cheese

Place a slice of American cheese over the beef while it’s still hot so it melts perfectly. Transfer to a plate.

Step 5: Top and Serve

Add shredded lettuce, diced onions, sliced pickles, and a generous drizzle of Big Mac sauce. Serve hot!

---

Serving and Storing Your Smash Burger Tacos

These tacos are best enjoyed hot off the skillet when the beef is crisp and the cheese is melty. Serve them fresh with a side of fries or a crunchy salad.

For leftovers, store the taco components separately in airtight containers. Reheat the beef-tortilla combo in a hot skillet to bring back the crisp, then top with fresh veggies and sauce. Avoid microwaving fully assembled tacos—they’ll go soggy.

---

Frequently Asked Questions

How thin should I smash the beef?

Smash it thin enough to cover most of the tortilla, ideally 1/8-inch thick. This creates maximum browning and crispy edges.

Can I use another type of cheese?

Yes! While American cheese gives it that classic Big Mac vibe, cheddar or pepper jack also work.

What if I don’t have a burger press?

A heavy spatula, small cast iron skillet, or even a metal measuring cup can work for smashing.

Are flour or corn tortillas better?

Flour tortillas hold up better and crisp nicely without tearing. Corn tortillas may crack under pressure.

Can I make these vegetarian?

Absolutely. Use a plant-based ground beef substitute and follow the same method.

How long does the sauce keep?

Stored in a sealed container in the fridge, the sauce lasts up to a week.

---

Want More Taco-Inspired Dinner Ideas?

If these smash burger tacos hit the spot, you’ll want to explore other crave-worthy dinners:

Take a look at my Taco Bake Casserole, a bubbly, cheese-covered oven classic with taco flair. Or go handheld with the Cheeseburger Sliders for a crowd-friendly game day snack.

Feeling bold? Try the Buffalo Chicken Lasagna Recipe for a spicy, cheesy fusion, or the Beef and Bowtie Pasta with Alfredo Sauce for a rich and hearty pasta night.

For a tangy, Southern-style comfort food vibe, the Wendy’s Chili Recipe brings the cozy bowl energy.

---

Pin and Tell Me How Yours Turned Out

You can save this to your weeknight dinner boards for later. Just click the Pin button.

If you try it, let me know how it went! Did you add jalapeños? Did you go double-decker? Drop a comment below — I’d love to see your twist on it.

Want more daily recipes and behind-the-scenes peeks? Follow me on Pinterest at LadyPlate.

---

Print

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?