Big Mac Smash Burger Taco

Save this recipe on:

Take everything you crave in a Big Mac—the juicy beef, tangy pickles, crisp lettuce, creamy sauce—and smash it into a sizzling griddled tortilla for a mind-blowing taco experience. The Big Mac Smash Burger Taco combines the best of American fast food with the handheld perfection of a taco. It’s savory, melty, a little tangy, and wildly addictive.

This fusion masterpiece starts with ground beef smashed thin over a hot tortilla, cooked until crisp and caramelized. Then comes the melted cheese, shredded lettuce, chopped pickles, and of course, the iconic “special sauce” made with mayo, mustard, ketchup, and a touch of vinegar and paprika for that signature zing. Every bite is loaded with crunch, creaminess, and pure flavor—perfect for a quick dinner idea, game day snack, or viral-worthy party platter.

---

Why You’ll Love This Big Mac Smash Burger Taco

• Two classic favorites in one bite: It’s a taco, it’s a burger, and it’s better than both.
• Quick and easy recipe: Ready in under 30 minutes with pantry-staple ingredients.
• Perfectly shareable: These are crowd-pleasers for family dinners, BBQs, or late-night bites.
• Customizable: Add bacon, switch up cheeses, or go spicy with jalapeños.
• Social-media-worthy: This dish is as photogenic as it is delicious—your followers will thank you.

---

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use for Big Mac Smash Burger Taco

To create these flavorful Big Mac Smash Burger Tacos, a bit of prep and the right tools make all the difference in nailing that crispy-meets-creamy texture. Let’s break it down.

Essential Tools and Equipment:

• Cast Iron Skillet or Griddle – This is non-negotiable. A heavy skillet or flat griddle allows you to smash the beef thinly and evenly while getting that irresistible caramelized crust.
• Burger Smasher or Flat Spatula – To achieve the “smash” effect, use a sturdy spatula (metal works best) or a burger press to press the beef firmly into the tortilla.
• Mixing Bowl – You’ll need this to whip up the special Big Mac-style sauce.
• Knife & Cutting Board – For chopping pickles, lettuce, onions, and slicing cheese if needed.
• Tongs or Flipper – Helpful for flipping tacos without spilling fillings.
• Paper Towels – For blotting excess grease, especially if you’re cooking in batches.

Each tool supports the layering of textures—crispy tortilla, seared beef, fresh lettuce—so your tacos turn out restaurant-quality at home.

---

Preparation Tips

• Chill your ground beef first: Cold beef holds together better when smashed, creating that iconic crust.
• Thin tortillas = crispier texture: Use small flour tortillas, and don’t overload them with beef. One thin patty per taco is enough.
• Preheat the pan well: Don’t rush this. A hot skillet is the secret to that golden sear.
• Shred lettuce super fine: Thin shreds give a better bite and balance with the rich sauce.
• Toast tortillas lightly: You want them golden on one side, soft on the other, to hold everything without cracking.
• Make sauce ahead: The longer it sits, the better it gets. Prep it the night before for max flavor.

These tips bring your Big Mac Smash Burger Tacos from good to unforgettable.

---

Ingredients for this Big Mac Smash Burger Taco

Here’s everything you need to build this drool-worthy fusion taco. The ingredients are simple, but together they create an explosion of flavor and texture.

For the Smash Burger Tacos:

• 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend is ideal for juiciness)
• 8 small flour tortillas (street taco size, soft and pliable)
• 8 slices American cheese (or cheddar for a sharper bite)
• 1 cup shredded iceberg lettuce (thinly sliced for that classic crunch)
• ½ cup dill pickles, chopped or sliced into thin rounds
• Salt & pepper, to season the beef
• 1 tbsp oil or butter (for greasing the skillet)

For the Special “Big Mac” Sauce:

• ½ cup mayonnaise
• 1 tbsp yellow mustard
• 1 tbsp ketchup
• 1 tbsp finely diced pickles or relish
• 1 tsp white vinegar
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp onion powder
• ¼ tsp smoked paprika

Optional:

• Chopped onions (raw or sautéed)
• Sliced jalapeños (if you like a kick)
• Sesame seeds (sprinkle on tortillas for that “burger bun” feel)

With these ingredients, you’re ready to create the ultimate Big Mac in taco form.

---

Step-by-Step Instructions for Big Mac Smash Burger Taco

Follow these simple steps to get those crispy, melty, saucy tacos on your plate in no time.

---

Step 1: Make the Special Sauce

In a small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, mustard, ketchup, diced pickles or relish, vinegar, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika. Stir until fully combined, then refrigerate to let the flavors develop while you cook the tacos.

---

Step 2: Prep the Toppings

Shred the iceberg lettuce finely and chop the pickles. If using onions or jalapeños, prepare those now. Set everything aside for easy taco assembly.

---

Step 3: Portion the Beef

Divide the ground beef into 8 equal balls (about 2 ounces each). Don’t press or season them yet—just keep them chilled until ready to cook.

---

Step 4: Preheat Your Pan

Heat a cast iron skillet or flat griddle over medium-high heat. Add a little oil or butter and spread evenly.

---

Step 5: Smash the Beef on Tortillas

Place one flour tortilla on the hot skillet. Immediately press a beef ball onto the tortilla using a burger smasher or heavy spatula. Press firmly until the beef spreads thin and sticks to the tortilla. Season the beef side with salt and pepper.

---

Step 6: Cook Until Crispy

Let the beef-tortilla combo cook undisturbed for 2–3 minutes, until the beef is deeply browned and crispy. Flip the entire taco, beef side down, and cook for another 1–2 minutes until the tortilla is golden.

---

Step 7: Add Cheese and Melt

Flip the taco back so the tortilla side is down. Place a slice of cheese on the cooked beef and let it melt for 30 seconds. Cover with a lid if needed to help the cheese melt faster.

---

Step 8: Assemble and Serve

Transfer the taco to a plate. Top with shredded lettuce, pickles, optional onions/jalapeños, and a generous drizzle of the Big Mac sauce. Fold gently and serve immediately.

---

Repeat for the remaining tacos, then dig in while they’re hot, gooey, and ultra-satisfying.

---

Notes

• Smash technique matters: For maximum crisp and flavor, apply firm, even pressure when smashing the beef onto the tortilla. It should sizzle right away.
• Use freshly shredded lettuce: Bagged lettuce wilts quickly. Shred fresh iceberg right before serving for that classic crunch.
• Customize the sauce: Prefer it tangier? Add a splash more vinegar. Want it smokier? Increase the paprika or add a dash of hot sauce.

---

Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Pan not hot enough: If your skillet isn’t properly preheated, the beef won’t sear—it’ll steam, leaving it gray and soggy. Always preheat until just starting to smoke.
• Overloading the tortilla: Less is more. One thin patty is enough—too much beef will make the tortilla soggy and hard to flip.
• Flipping too early: Let the beef develop a golden crust before flipping. Resist the urge to check it constantly.
• Skipping the chill: Cold beef smashes better and holds shape. If it’s too warm, it becomes mushy when pressed.
• Using thick tortillas: Thick or stiff tortillas don’t crisp properly. Stick to soft, small flour tortillas for best results.
• Saucing too early: Wait to add the sauce until right before serving, or it can make the taco soggy.
• Wrong cheese: American cheese melts perfectly for that classic Big Mac vibe. Using shredded cheese may not melt as smoothly.
• Crowding the pan: Cook in batches if needed. Overcrowding traps steam and ruins the sear on the beef.

---

What to Serve With Big Mac Smash Burger Taco?

These tacos are packed with flavor, but pairing them with the right sides can take your meal to the next level. Whether you’re doing a casual dinner or feeding a crowd, here’s what complements them best.

8 Recommendations

1. Crispy French Fries

You can’t go wrong with the classic burger pairing. Serve with extra Big Mac sauce for dipping.

2. Sweet Potato Wedges

Add a bit of sweetness and balance with roasted or air-fried sweet potato wedges—seasoned with paprika and sea salt.

3. Pickle Slaw

Toss cabbage with pickle juice, vinegar, and a touch of mayo for a tangy crunch that echoes the taco flavors.

4. Cheesy Tater Tots

Mini, crispy, cheesy bites that mimic the indulgence of the taco. Great for kids and grownups alike.

5. Loaded Nachos

Top tortilla chips with melted cheese, chopped pickles, and a drizzle of Big Mac sauce—yes, really. It works.

6. Spicy Corn Salad (Esquites)

Charred corn mixed with mayo, lime, chili powder, and cotija. The sweetness and spice contrast beautifully with the taco’s richness.

7. Mini Milkshakes

For a retro diner touch, serve vanilla or chocolate milkshakes in small glasses. The creamy sweetness balances the savory tacos.

8. Iceberg Wedge Salad

Cool, crisp, and refreshing—drizzled with a light ranch or blue cheese dressing to cut through the richness.

Each of these sides brings a different flavor or texture dimension to the table, making your Big Mac Smash Burger Taco night feel like a full-on event.

---

Storage Instructions

If you end up with leftovers (though it’s rare!), here’s how to store and reheat your Big Mac Smash Burger Tacos for best results:

• Store components separately whenever possible. Keep tortillas, cooked beef patties, sauce, and fresh toppings in individual airtight containers.
• Refrigerate within 2 hours: Store in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Reheat beef and tortillas in a hot skillet for 2–3 minutes, or in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10 minutes until heated through. Avoid microwaving if possible—it makes the tortillas soggy.
• Do not freeze assembled tacos, but you can freeze the cooked beef patties for up to 1 month. Thaw and reheat in a skillet before serving.

To maintain crunch and texture, always assemble the tacos fresh just before eating.

---

Estimated Nutrition (per 1 taco with sauce and toppings)

• Calories: 385
• Protein: 17g
• Fat: 26g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 14g
• Trans Fat: 0.5g
• Cholesterol: 65mg
• Carbohydrates: 21g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 720mg
• Serving Size: 1 taco
• Diet: Contains dairy, gluten, and egg-based mayonnaise

Note: These values are approximate and will vary depending on ingredient brands and customizations.

---

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use corn tortillas instead of flour?

Technically yes, but flour tortillas hold up better when smashed with beef and are less likely to tear. Corn tortillas can crack under pressure and don’t crisp the same way.

---

2. What ground beef is best for smash burgers?

Use 80/20 ground beef. The fat content is essential for achieving that crispy, juicy crust. Lean beef will dry out quickly.

---

3. Can I make these tacos ahead of time?

You can prep the sauce, toppings, and even the beef balls in advance. But for best texture, smash and cook the tacos just before serving.

---

4. Is there a way to make this healthier?

Yes! Use leaner beef (90/10), low-fat cheese, and Greek yogurt-based sauce. Swap tortillas for low-carb wraps and go light on the sauce.

---

5. What cheese melts best for this recipe?

American cheese melts smoothly and gives that classic Big Mac flavor. Cheddar or pepper jack are good alternatives if you prefer a sharper or spicier edge.

---

6. Can I cook these in an air fryer?

No—the “smash” method needs direct contact with a hot surface. Use a skillet or griddle to get that crispy sear on the beef and tortilla.

---

7. What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?

Reheat the beef-tortilla combo in a hot skillet to bring back the crispness. Avoid the microwave if you want to keep the texture intact.

---

8. Can I use a plant-based ground meat substitute?

Absolutely. Use a high-fat plant-based beef alternative and follow the same smash technique. Keep an eye on cook time—it may brown faster.

---

Conclusion

The Big Mac Smash Burger Taco is more than a viral trend—it’s a craveable, flavor-packed hybrid that delivers on every level. Crispy tortillas, seared beef, melty cheese, fresh lettuce, pickles, and that iconic sauce come together in a taco that hits all the right notes. It’s fast, fun, and customizable, making it perfect for weeknight dinners, parties, or anytime you want something both comforting and unexpected.

This dish proves that great food doesn’t have to be complicated—it just needs to be bold, balanced, and made with love.

---

Print

Save this recipe on: