Big Mac style smash burger tacos bring together two beloved favorites in one delicious bite. I started making these when I wanted that classic burger taste but with a fun twist that my family would enjoy.
The first time I made these was on a game night when I needed something shareable and exciting. The kitchen filled with the smell of burgers hitting a hot skillet, and I knew I was onto something special. Watching the cheese melt over those crispy patties while the tortillas warmed nearby made me realize this recipe was a keeper. Now these Big Mac style smash burger tacos show up at family gatherings, casual dinners, and whenever we want something that feels like a treat without being complicated.
Why These Burger Tacos Belong in Your Recipe Box
After making these countless times, I’ve learned what makes these Big Mac style smash burger tacos work so well. The combination of familiar flavors in a new format creates something both comforting and exciting.
- Big Mac flavors you love in an easy-to-make format
- Smashburgers come together quickly with minimal effort
- Perfect for sharing at gatherings or game days
- Classic tastes with a fun taco presentation
- Crispy, juicy, and melty textures in every bite
What Goes Into This Recipe
Ground beef at 80/20 provides the right balance of flavor and juiciness. I always choose this ratio because leaner beef can dry out when smashed thin.
Yellow American cheese melts beautifully and gives that authentic burger shop taste. In my kitchen, I prefer the kind from the deli counter for the best melting quality.
Flour tortillas serve as the perfect vessel, warming up nicely and holding everything together. Medium-sized tortillas work best for easy folding.
Sweet pickle relish in the sauce provides that signature tang. This ingredient makes the biggest difference in capturing true Big Mac flavor.
Mayonnaise forms the creamy base of the sauce. Full-fat mayo works best for the right consistency and taste.
White vinegar adds brightness to the Big Mac sauce. Just a teaspoon balances the richness perfectly.
Betty’s Tested Technique
Step 1. In a medium bowl, whisk together mayo, sweet pickle relish, mustard, vinegar, paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, and white pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Refrigerate for at least 20-30 minutes to let the flavors meld.
Step 2. Heat a skillet over medium heat. Place a flour tortilla in the dry skillet and cook for 1-2 minutes on each side until lightly charred and puffed in spots. Set aside and repeat with remaining tortillas. Keep warm under a clean towel.
Step 3. Divide the ground beef into 4 equal balls, about 4 ounces each. Heat a cast iron skillet or griddle over medium-high heat until very hot.
Step 4. Place a beef ball on the skillet and press down firmly with a spatula. Use parchment paper to prevent sticking. Smash the patty thin, about 1/4 inch thick.
Step 5. Sprinkle with salt and pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes on one side, then flip and top with a slice of American cheese. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until the edges are crispy and the cheese melts.
Step 6. Spread a generous layer of Big Mac sauce on each tortilla. Add shredded lettuce, diced onion, and pickle slices.
Step 7. Place a cheesy smashburger patty on top of each tortilla and fold like a taco.
Step 8. Serve warm with extra Big Mac sauce on the side for dipping. Sprinkle sesame seeds on top if desired.
Making the Most of Leftovers
I typically store the Big Mac sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. The sauce actually tastes better after the flavors have time to blend.
Cooked patties can be stored separately for 2-3 days in the refrigerator. However, these Big Mac style smash burger tacos taste best when served fresh and assembled right before eating. The tortillas stay crispier and the lettuce remains crisp when you build them just before serving.
Sides That Shine
These Big Mac style smash burger tacos pair perfectly with Cajun fries for a classic burger-joint experience. Air-fried plantain chips offer a unique twist.
Keep extra Big Mac sauce on the side for dipping. A sprinkle of sesame seeds on top adds that classic burger bun touch.
For a complete meal spread, serve alongside Easy Smashburger Quesadillas for variety, or pair with Garlic Parmesan Cheeseburger Bombs when entertaining. Pepperoni Pizzadillas make great appetizers before the main event, while French Dip Tortilla Roll Ups offer another handheld option guests will love.
FAQs
I recommend ground turkey or chicken as substitutes. They work well but produce a slightly different flavor profile than traditional beef.
To prevent this issue, make sure your skillet is very hot before adding the beef, and press down firmly only once when the meat first hits the pan.
Many home cooks find success making the sauce 1-2 days ahead. The flavors develop even more as it sits in the refrigerator.
Big Mac Style Smash Burger Tacos
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Heat a skillet over medium heat. Cook flour tortillas for 1-2 minutes on each side until lightly charred. Keep warm under a clean towel.
- Divide ground beef into 4 equal balls. Heat cast iron skillet over medium-high heat until very hot.
- Place a beef ball on the skillet and press down firmly with a spatula using parchment paper. Smash thin to about 1/4 inch thick.
- Sprinkle with salt and pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes, flip, and top with cheese. Cook another 1-2 minutes until edges are crispy and cheese melts.
- Spread Big Mac sauce on each tortilla. Add lettuce, onion, and pickles.
- Place a cheesy patty on each tortilla and fold like a taco. Serve warm with extra sauce.
