If you love the irresistible flavors of a Big Mac but want a fun, handheld twist, the Big Mac Smash Burger Tacos Recipe is exactly what you need. This recipe transforms the classic burger experience into a taco form, combining juicy smashed beef patties with that signature tangy Big Mac sauce, crisp lettuce, pickles, and melted cheese — all wrapped up in soft taco tortillas. It’s comfort food meets playful innovation, perfect for a casual dinner or an exciting weekend treat that will thrill any burger and taco fan alike.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting the ingredients right is half the magic of the Big Mac Smash Burger Tacos Recipe. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in layering flavors, textures, and colors, creating that perfect balance of tangy, savory, and crisp that makes this dish unforgettable.
- 1 lb ground beef (80% lean): Use slightly fatty beef for juicy, flavorful patties that get crispy edges when smashed.
- Salt and black pepper: Simple seasonings to enhance the beef’s natural flavor without overpowering.
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise: The creamy base for the secret Big Mac sauce, adding richness and moisture.
- 2 tablespoons mustard: Adds a gentle tanginess that brightens the sauce beautifully.
- 1 tablespoon ketchup: Sweetness and acidity balance the mayonnaise and mustard perfectly.
- 1 tablespoon dill pickle relish: This brings crunch and that unmistakable pickle punch essential to a Big Mac flavor.
- 1 teaspoon white wine vinegar: Adds brightness and a subtle zing to lift the sauce.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Background warmth that rounds out the sauce’s complexity.
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder: Enhances the savory undertone of the sauce with subtle depth.
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika: A mild smokiness that adds just the right hint of spice.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Ensures the sauce and patties are perfectly seasoned.
- 8 small soft taco tortillas (flour or corn): Soft and pliable shells to hold all the delicious ingredients comfortably.
- 1 cup shredded iceberg lettuce: Crunchy freshness that provides a satisfying contrast to the warm beef.
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or American cheese, optional): Melty, gooey cheese that amps up the indulgence factor.
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onions: Sharpness and a bit of bite that wakes up your palate.
- 1/2 cup sliced dill pickles (or relish): The tangy crunch that keeps each bite exciting.
- 1/4 cup sliced tomatoes (optional): Adds juiciness and vibrant color if you want a fresh twist.
- Fresh cilantro (optional, for garnish): A subtle herbaceous note that brightens and balances the richness.
How to Make Big Mac Smash Burger Tacos Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Big Mac Sauce
The Big Mac sauce is your flavor powerhouse here — combining mayonnaise, mustard, ketchup, pickle relish, white wine vinegar, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and salt into a creamy sauce that tastes just like the iconic burger spread. Mix all the ingredients thoroughly in a small bowl until smooth. Set this aside to let the flavors meld while you cook the patties.
Step 2: Make the Smash Burger Patties
Preheat your cast-iron skillet or griddle on medium-high heat; this ensures you’ll get those fantastic crispy edges on your patties. Take the ground beef and form it into four equal-sized balls—about four ounces each works perfectly. Don’t forget to generously season each ball with salt and pepper to bring out that rich beefy flavor.
Step 3: Cook the Smash Burgers
Place the beef balls spaced apart in the hot skillet. Now comes the fun part: using a spatula or burger press, smash each ball down flat to make thin patties. Cook these patties without disturbing them for about 2-3 minutes until the edges crisp up beautifully and a deep brown crust forms. Flip carefully and cook the second side for another 1-2 minutes until the patties are cooked through and golden brown.
Step 4: Warm the Taco Shells
While the burgers are sizzling, warm your taco tortillas to make them soft and pliable. You can heat them quickly in a dry skillet for about 30 seconds on each side or microwave them for 10-15 seconds. This step not only makes the tortillas flexible but also brings out their gentle toasty aroma.
Step 5: Assemble the Tacos
It’s assembly time! Place one freshly cooked smash burger patty on each warm taco shell. Then drizzle a generous spoonful of that luscious Big Mac sauce over the patties — don’t hold back, this sauce is where the magic really shines.
Step 6: Top with Classic Big Mac Ingredients
Layer each taco with crisp shredded iceberg lettuce, a sprinkle of shredded cheddar or American cheese if you like it melty, finely chopped onions, and sliced dill pickles. If you want to add a little freshness and a pop of color, toss on some sliced tomatoes and a handful of chopped cilantro. This combination perfectly balances the richness of the beef and the saucy zing.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Serve your Big Mac Smash Burger Tacos piping hot for the best experience. They are fantastic on their own or paired with classic crispy fries or a fresh side salad. Dig in and savor every bite of these irresistibly fun taco burgers!
How to Serve Big Mac Smash Burger Tacos Recipe
Garnishes
While the recipe already comes loaded with flavors, fresh garnishes take it to the next level. Chopped cilantro adds brightness and a subtle herbal note that cuts through the richness. For a little extra kick, consider adding a few slices of jalapeño or even a drizzle of hot sauce. These simple touches personalize your tacos and make them feel extra special.
Side Dishes
Big Mac Smash Burger Tacos go great with a variety of sides. Classic French fries or crispy sweet potato fries are always a crowd-pleaser. For a lighter option, a crunchy coleslaw or mixed green salad complements the rich beef patties wonderfully. Even simple chips and guacamole would make a delicious accompaniment for a fun slider-style meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Presentation makes food feel even more festive. Arrange your tacos neatly on a wooden board or a platter lined with parchment paper for a casual, inviting look. Add small bowls of extra Big Mac sauce, pickles, and chopped onions on the side so everyone can customize their tacos. For parties, serve mini versions as bite-sized appetizers—just form smaller patties and use mini tortillas, and watch your guests rave!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, store the cooked patties and sauce separately in airtight containers to keep everything fresh. Lettuce and other toppings are best added fresh when serving the next day to avoid sogginess. Refrigerate the components for up to 2 days to enjoy all the flavors without compromise.
Freezing
You can freeze the cooked smash patties individually wrapped to maintain their texture. Freeze for up to 1 month. The sauce is best stored in the fridge and used fresh, as freezing may change its consistency. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw the patties overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the patties gently in a skillet over medium heat until heated through and crispy again. Warm your tortillas separately in a dry pan or microwave for best texture. Add fresh toppings and sauce after reheating to keep your Big Mac Smash Burger Tacos tasting just like freshly made.
FAQs
Can I use different types of cheese in the Big Mac Smash Burger Tacos Recipe?
Absolutely! While American or cheddar cheese are classic choices, feel free to experiment with pepper jack for a little heat, or even Swiss for a milder, nutty flavor. The key is to pick a cheese that melts easily and complements the savory beef and tangy sauce.
What if I don’t have a cast-iron skillet or griddle?
A heavy-bottomed non-stick skillet can work well too. The important part is getting the pan hot enough to create those crispy edges on the smashed patties. Just preheat your pan thoroughly and avoid overcrowding the patties to keep that delicious crust.
Can I make the Big Mac sauce ahead of time?
Yes! The sauce actually benefits from sitting in the fridge for a few hours or overnight, letting all the flavors meld together. Just store it in a sealed container, and give it a good stir before assembling your tacos.
Are these tacos kid-friendly?
Definitely. The flavors are familiar and mild enough for kids, plus the handheld taco format makes them fun and easy to eat. You can always adjust the toppings to suit your family’s preferences.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, simply opt for gluten-free taco tortillas. Many corn tortillas are naturally gluten-free, but be sure to check the label for added ingredients. The rest of the ingredients in the Big Mac Smash Burger Tacos Recipe are naturally gluten-free as well.
Final Thoughts
There’s something incredibly satisfying about reinventing a fast-food classic into a homemade delight, and the Big Mac Smash Burger Tacos Recipe does just that with flair. It’s fun, flavorful, and perfect for sharing with loved ones. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a weekend treat, give this recipe a try and watch it become a new favorite in your culinary collection.
Print
Big Mac Smash Burger Tacos Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Big Mac Smash Burger Tacos offer a delicious fusion of classic Big Mac flavors wrapped in soft taco shells. Featuring juicy smashed beef patties, a tangy homemade Big Mac sauce, and fresh toppings like shredded lettuce, cheese, and pickles, these tacos bring a fun twist to a beloved burger favorite. Ready in just 25 minutes, they make for a quick and satisfying meal perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Big Mac Sauce
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons mustard
- 1 tablespoon ketchup
- 1 tablespoon dill pickle relish
- 1 teaspoon white wine vinegar
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Smash Burgers
- 1 lb ground beef (80% lean for best flavor)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Taco Assembly
- 8 small soft taco tortillas (flour or corn)
- 1 cup shredded iceberg lettuce
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or American cheese, optional)
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onions
- 1/2 cup sliced dill pickles (or relish)
- 1/4 cup sliced tomatoes (optional)
- Fresh cilantro (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the Big Mac Sauce: In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, mustard, ketchup, dill pickle relish, white wine vinegar, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and salt. Stir until the mixture is smooth and well blended. Set aside to let the flavors meld.
- Make the Smash Burger Patties: Preheat a cast-iron skillet or griddle over medium-high heat. Meanwhile, divide the ground beef into 4 equal balls, about 4 ounces each. Season each ball generously with salt and black pepper.
- Cook the Smash Burgers: Once the skillet is hot, add the beef balls spaced apart. Using a spatula or burger press, firmly smash each ball down into a thin patty. Cook for 2-3 minutes on the first side until the edges are crispy and browned. Flip the patties and cook for another 1-2 minutes until cooked through and golden.
- Warm the Taco Shells: While the patties cook, warm the taco tortillas. Heat them in a dry skillet for about 30 seconds each side until soft and pliable, or microwave for 10-15 seconds as an alternative method.
- Assemble the Tacos: Place one cooked burger patty on each warmed taco shell. Drizzle a generous amount of the prepared Big Mac sauce over the patty evenly.
- Top with Classic Big Mac Ingredients: Add a layer of shredded iceberg lettuce, shredded cheddar cheese, finely chopped onions, and sliced dill pickles on each taco. Optionally include sliced tomatoes and garnish with fresh cilantro for extra freshness and flavor.
- Serve and Enjoy: Serve the Big Mac Smash Burger Tacos immediately while warm and crispy. These tacos are perfect alongside crispy fries or a fresh side salad for a complete meal experience.
Notes
- Use 80% lean ground beef for juicy, flavorful patties.
- Feel free to swap cheddar cheese for American cheese for a more authentic Big Mac taste.
- Adjust the Big Mac sauce seasoning to your preference for sweetness or tang.
- Warm taco shells just before serving to keep them soft and pliable.
- These tacos are best enjoyed fresh but leftovers can be stored refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
- Make vegetarian by substituting the beef patties with plant-based burger patties.
