This Easy Keto Big Mac Smash Burger is a fun twist on the classic! It’s packed with juicy beef, special sauce, and all the flavors you love, minus the carbs.
Who knew you could enjoy a burger without the bun? I love to serve mine with a side of crispy veggies. Plus, making these is a great way to impress friends at grill time! 🍔
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: An 80/20 blend gives you the perfect mix of meat and fat, ensuring juicy burgers. You could substitute with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option, but they may not be as juicy.
American Cheese: This cheese melts perfectly, making it a great choice for burgers. If you’re not a fan, try cheddar or pepper jack for a spicier kick!
Dill Pickles: They add a nice crunch and tang. If you don’t like pickles, try banana peppers or omit them altogether for a different flavor.
Butter or Avocado Oil: I prefer butter for its flavor, but avocado oil is a healthier option with a high smoke point. You can also use coconut oil if you like that taste.
Mayonnaise: This is the base for the special sauce. If you’re not keen on mayo, Greek yogurt or sour cream can be a tangy substitute.
How Do You Make Smash Burgers That Are Crispy and Flavorful?
Making smash burgers is all about technique! The goal is to get a nice crust while keeping the inside juicy. Here’s how to do it:
- Form loose balls of meat—don’t pack them too tightly.
- Preheat your skillet on medium-high heat. It should be hot enough that the meat sizzles when it hits the pan.
- Use a spatula to press down firmly on the meat; this maximizes surface area and creates that delicious crust.
- Cook for just a few minutes on one side until edges are crispy, then flip and top with cheese. Cook until the cheese melts for a gooey finish.
Remember to let the burgers rest for a minute before assembling. This helps keep the juices inside!
Easy Keto Big Mac Smash Burger
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend recommended)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 4 slices American cheese
- 8 small dill pickle slices
- 1 cup shredded iceberg lettuce
- 1 tbsp butter or avocado oil (for cooking)
- 8 slices of cheese (for making the “buns”)
For the special Big Mac-style keto sauce:
- 1/3 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tbsp sugar-free ketchup
- 1 tbsp mustard (yellow or Dijon)
- 1 tbsp dill pickle relish (sugar-free, if possible)
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare, plus 10-15 minutes to cook. You’ll spend about 5 minutes mixing the sauce and forming the patties, followed by 10-15 minutes to cook everything perfectly. The result? A delicious keto meal in under 30 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Special Keto Sauce:
In a mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, sugar-free ketchup, mustard, dill pickle relish, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir well until fully mixed and creamy. Set the sauce aside for later. This tangy sauce will bring your flavors together!
2. Prepare the Beef Patties:
Take the ground beef and lightly form it into 4 equal-sized balls. Be careful not to pack them too tightly—this helps keep the burgers juicy! Season the outside with salt and pepper to enhance the flavor.
3. Cook the Patties:
Heat your skillet or griddle over medium-high heat and melt the butter or avocado oil. Once hot, add the beef balls to the skillet. Using a spatula, press down firmly on each ball to create thin, wide patties. Season them again with a little more salt and pepper. Cook for about 2-3 minutes until the edges are crispy and browned.
4. Add Cheese and Flip:
Carefully flip each patty and immediately place a slice of American cheese on top. Let them cook for another 1-2 minutes until the cheese is melted and the patties are cooked through. You want that melty goodness!
5. Create the “Buns”:
While the patties are cooking, take the slices of cheese and fry them in a separate pan over medium heat until they become crispy and hold their shape—about 1-2 minutes per side. These will act as your delicious keto “buns.”
6. Assembly Time:
To put everything together, start with one cheese ‘bun’ on your plate. Place one smash burger patty with melted cheese on top, add a generous spoonful of the special sauce, followed by shredded iceberg lettuce and a few dill pickle slices. Finally, place another cheese ‘bun’ on top to finish off your keto burger masterpiece!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Dig into your savory Easy Keto Big Mac Smash Burger right away. Enjoy the delightful flavors and the satisfaction of a keto-friendly meal!
This recipe is perfect for anyone looking to enjoy that iconic Big Mac flavor while sticking to low-carb guidelines. Enjoy your delicious burger without any buns!
FAQ for Easy Keto Big Mac Smash Burger
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Yes, you can use ground turkey or chicken as a leaner alternative, but keep in mind that they may result in a drier patty since these meats have less fat. Consider adding a little olive oil or a higher-fat content ground turkey to keep it juicy.
Can I Prepare the Special Sauce in Advance?
Absolutely! You can make the special sauce a day ahead and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’ll stay fresh for up to three days, so you can save time on burger night!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover burger patties in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat them in a pan or the microwave, but be careful not to overcook them to maintain their juiciness!
What Are Some Good Side Dishes for These Burgers?
These burgers pair wonderfully with a side of steamed or roasted vegetables, salad, or even zucchini fries. For a fun twist, try serving them with cauliflower rice for a low-carb meal!
