AMAZING BIG MAC-STYLE SMASH BURGER TACOS

Forget choosing between tacos and burgers – now you can have *both* in one flavor-packed bite! These Big Mac-Style Smash Burger Tacos combine the best of both worlds, delivering that iconic Big Mac taste in a fun, handheld format that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or game day snacks. Get ready to experience a taste sensation that will have everyone begging for more, and don’t worry, I’ll guide you through every step to taco perfection!

Ingredients

For the Smash Burgers:

• 1 pound ground beef (80/20 blend recommended)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

For the “Big Mac” Sauce:

• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons sweet pickle relish
• 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
• 1 teaspoon white vinegar
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/4 teaspoon paprika

For the Tacos:

• 12 small flour tortillas (street taco size)
• 1 cup shredded iceberg lettuce
• 1/2 cup finely diced onion
• 1/2 cup dill pickle slices, finely chopped
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• Sesame seeds, for garnish (optional)

Let’s Talk Ground Beef

Choosing the right ground beef is surprisingly important for maximizing both flavor and ease of cooking when making these Big Mac-Style Smash Burger Tacos. I always recommend an 80/20 blend, meaning 80% lean meat and 20% fat. The fat content is crucial for juicy, flavorful smash burgers that don’t dry out during the cooking process. Leaner ground beef can be used, but you might need to add a bit more oil to the pan to prevent sticking. You could even try mixing in some ground pork! Just remember to adjust cooking times accordingly. And, of course, make sure to always cook ground beef to a safe internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).

Crafting the Secret Sauce

The sauce is what truly makes these tacos taste like a Big Mac! Don’t be tempted to skip this step, as it’s incredibly easy to make and adds that signature tangy, sweet, and savory flavor profile. I like to whisk all the ingredients together in a small bowl until smooth. Taste and adjust the seasonings as needed. Some people prefer a slightly sweeter sauce, so feel free to add a pinch of sugar or a little more sweet pickle relish. If you like a bit of heat, a dash of cayenne pepper can add a nice kick. Once you’ve made the sauce, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. It will taste even better if you make it a day ahead of time!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Making the “Big Mac” Sauce:

1. In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, sweet pickle relish, yellow mustard, white vinegar, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika.
2. Whisk until smooth. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
3. Refrigerate until ready to use.

Smashing the Burgers:

1. Divide the ground beef into 12 equal portions (about 1.3 ounces each). I find using a kitchen scale to be extremely helpful for this, and guarantees consistency!
2. Gently form each portion into a loose ball. Do not overwork the meat.
3. Heat olive oil in a large cast iron skillet or griddle over medium-high heat.
4. Place the beef balls in the hot skillet, leaving enough space between each.
5. Using a sturdy spatula or a burger press, immediately smash each ball down very thin, about 1/4 inch thick. I recommend using two spatulas for extra leverage.
6. Season with salt and pepper.
7. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until the edges are crispy and the burgers are cooked through.
8. Remove the smash burgers from the skillet and set aside.

Assembling the Tacos:

1. Warm the flour tortillas according to package directions. You can lightly toast them in a dry skillet or microwave them briefly.
2. Spread a generous amount of “Big Mac” sauce on each tortilla.
3. Top with shredded lettuce, diced onion, and chopped dill pickles.
4. Place a smash burger on top of the toppings.
5. Sprinkle with shredded cheddar cheese.
6. Garnish with sesame seeds, if desired.
7. Serve immediately and enjoy your Big Mac-Style Smash Burger Tacos!

Tips and Tricks for Taco Excellence

• Don’t overcrowd the pan: When smashing the burgers, work in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding the skillet. This will ensure that the burgers get a nice sear and crispy edges.
• Get that Smash Right: The key to a good smash burger is smashing it thin. Don’t be afraid to really press down hard with your spatula.
• Warm Tortillas are Key: Warmed tortillas are more pliable and less likely to tear. Plus, they just taste better!
• Customize Your Toppings: Feel free to add or substitute toppings to your liking. Some other great options include tomatoes, bacon, or even a fried egg.
• Double the Recipe: These tacos are so good, they’re sure to disappear quickly! Consider doubling the recipe if you’re feeding a crowd.

Make Ahead Magic

Want to get ahead of the game? You can definitely prepare some of the components of these Big Mac-Style Smash Burger Tacos in advance. The “Big Mac” sauce can be made up to a week ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator. You can also cook the smash burgers ahead of time and reheat them when you’re ready to assemble the tacos. However, for the best results, I recommend assembling the tacos just before serving to prevent the tortillas from getting soggy.

Variations on a Theme

These Big Mac-Style Smash Burger Tacos are fantastic as is, but don’t be afraid to experiment and put your own spin on them!

• Spicy Version: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the “Big Mac” sauce or top the tacos with sliced jalapeños.
• Bacon Cheeseburger Tacos: Cook some crispy bacon and crumble it over the tacos.
• Guacamole Topping: Swap out the lettuce and pickles for a dollop of fresh guacamole.
• Different Cheese: Use a different type of cheese, such as pepper jack or Monterey Jack, for a different flavor profile.

I also like to serve these with a side of fries, just like you would with a traditional burger.

Complete the Meal

Looking to create a full feast? These Big Mac-Style Smash Burger Tacos pair perfectly with a variety of side dishes. For a classic burger-and-fries experience, serve them with your favorite french fries or onion rings. A refreshing salad, like a simple coleslaw or a mixed green salad with a vinaigrette, can also provide a nice contrast to the richness of the tacos. If you’re in the mood for something a bit more substantial, consider serving them alongside Chili Cheese Tater Tot Casserole or Cilantro Lime Steak Bowls. And for a truly indulgent meal, don’t forget the Cheesy Meatball Subs! Or, for a low-carb option, you could start with an Egg Roll In A Bowl! For another ground beef forward meal, try Taco Casserole. Need something to take to a party? Bring along Philly Cheesesteak Roll Ups.

The Perfect Taco Night Experience

Making these Big Mac-Style Smash Burger Tacos is not just about the food; it’s about creating an experience. Turn up the music, gather your friends and family, and get ready for a fun and interactive taco night! Let everyone customize their own tacos with their favorite toppings, and enjoy the laughter and conversation that comes with sharing a delicious meal together. Consider adding a taco bar concept with a wide selection of toppings to pick from! For a quick and easy alternative, you may also want to try Baked Ground Beef Tacos for another fantastic taco night experience.

Final Thoughts

So there you have it: Big Mac flavor, smash burger satisfaction, all wrapped up in a convenient taco shell. These Big Mac-Style Smash Burger Tacos are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that’s sure to become a new family favorite. Get ready to impress your friends and family with this creative and delicious twist on two classic comfort foods. Happy cooking!