Name: Big Mac Style Smash Burger Tacos
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef (80/20 lean-to-fat ratio); 6 small flour tortillas; 6 slices cheddar cheese; 1 cup shredded iceberg lettuce; 1/2 cup dill pickles, sliced; 1/4 cup finely chopped onion; 1/2 cup mayonnaise; 2 tablespoons ketchup; 1 tablespoon yellow mustard; 2 teaspoons sweet pickle relish; 1 teaspoon white vinegar; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon onion powder; Salt to taste; Salt and pepper, to season beef

Crispy beef smashed directly onto tortillas, melty cheese, tangy pickles, and a creamy special sauce—these Big Mac Style Smash Burger Tacos pack all the iconic flavors of a fast-food classic with a fun and delicious street food spin. Perfect for weeknight dinners or weekend cravings, this fusion recipe brings together tacos and burgers in the best way possible.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 lb ground beef (80/20 lean-to-fat ratio)

6 small flour tortillas

6 slices cheddar cheese

1 cup shredded iceberg lettuce

1/2 cup dill pickles, sliced

1/4 cup finely chopped onion

For the Special Sauce:

1/2 cup mayonnaise

2 tablespoons ketchup

1 tablespoon yellow mustard

2 teaspoons sweet pickle relish

1 teaspoon white vinegar

1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

1/2 teaspoon onion powder

Salt to taste

Directions

I start by mixing all the ingredients for the special sauce in a small bowl and set it aside in the fridge until I’m ready to use it.

I divide the ground beef into 6 equal portions and gently roll them into loose balls.

Then I heat a large skillet or griddle over medium-high heat. Then I place a tortilla onto the hot surface and immediately add one beef ball on top.

Using a sturdy spatula, I smash the beef flat onto the tortilla. I season with salt and pepper.

I let it cook for 2–3 minutes until the beef is browned and the tortilla is slightly crispy underneath.

Carefully flipping the taco so the beef side is down, I place a slice of cheddar on top and cook for another 1–2 minutes until the cheese melts.

I repeat the process with the remaining beef and tortillas.

Once all the tacos are ready, I top each one with shredded lettuce, chopped onions, sliced pickles, and a generous drizzle of the special sauce.

Servings and timing

Servings: 6 tacos

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cooking Time: 15 minutes

Total Time: 25 minutes

Calories: Approximately 390 kcal per taco

Variations

I sometimes swap cheddar for American cheese for a more classic Big Mac flavor.

If I want a spicier twist, I add a few jalapeño slices or use pepper jack cheese.

For a low-carb version, I make them with low-carb tortillas or lettuce wraps.

I like adding a slice of tomato or some sautéed onions for extra texture and flavor.

If I don’t eat beef, I use ground turkey or plant-based meat as a tasty substitute.

Storage/Reheating

I store leftover components separately whenever possible. Cooked beef patties can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. I reheat them in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes until warmed through. I don’t recommend storing fully assembled tacos, as the tortillas can get soggy and the lettuce wilted. The special sauce can be refrigerated for up to a week.

FAQs

What kind of beef should I use for smash burger tacos?

I use ground beef with an 80/20 fat ratio. It gives the best flavor and helps create those crispy edges when smashed.

Can I use corn tortillas instead of flour?

Flour tortillas work best for this style because they’re soft and flexible, but if I prefer corn, I can use them—it just might be a bit more fragile when smashing the beef.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

I prepare the special sauce and shape the beef balls ahead of time. I cook everything fresh so the tortillas stay crispy and the cheese is perfectly melted.

How do I keep the beef from sticking to the spatula when smashing?

I use parchment paper or a lightly greased spatula to press down the beef. That way, I get a clean smash without sticking.

What’s the best cheese to use?

I usually go with cheddar, but American cheese melts beautifully and gives that nostalgic fast-food taste. Any good melting cheese will work.

Conclusion

Big Mac Style Smash Burger Tacos are a creative, fun, and totally crave-worthy mashup of two favorites. I love how quick they are to make and how every bite bursts with flavor—from the juicy beef and gooey cheese to the crunchy lettuce and tangy sauce. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a party spread, this recipe always delivers comfort food with a twist.

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