The Big Mac Smash Burger Taco is a fun twist on two classic favorites — the iconic Big Mac and a handheld taco. You get that delicious smashed beef patty with all the special sauce, shredded lettuce, pickles, and melty cheese, but wrapped up in a soft taco shell instead of a bun. It’s juicy, flavorful, and easy to eat, making it perfect for taco night with a burger vibe.
I love making these because they’re quick to cook, and the smash burger method gives you those nice crispy edges on the beef that add a satisfying crunch along with the soft taco shell. Plus, mixing the big mac sauce yourself is a simple way to add a ton of flavor that keeps everyone coming back for more. I always keep pickles and shredded lettuce on hand just for these tacos—they bring that crunch and freshness that balances out the richness perfectly.
When I serve Big Mac Smash Burger Tacos, I like to set up a little taco bar with extra toppings like diced onions, tomatoes, and maybe a drizzle of cheese sauce. It turns a casual meal into a fun get-together. These tacos are great for feeding a crowd or just for a tasty weeknight dinner that feels like a treat but comes together fast. Plus, they’re enjoyable to eat — all the flavors you love from a Big Mac, but in a fun new form!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: Use 80/20 beef for a good mix of fat and flavor. If you prefer leaner, go for 90/10, but the patties might be less juicy. You can also try ground turkey or plant-based beef for a lighter or vegetarian option.
Tortillas: Flour tortillas work great for softness, but corn tortillas add nice texture and are gluten-free. For extra crunch, use crispy taco shells—both are delicious choices depending on your preference.
Cheese: Cheddar or American cheese melts well and has that classic burger feel. If you’re avoiding dairy, try vegan cheese slices or omit cheese altogether for a lighter taco.
Big Mac Sauce: Making your own sauce with mayo, ketchup, mustard, and pickle relish is simple and tasty. If you want a twist, add a splash of hot sauce for heat or swap mayo for vegan mayo for a dairy-free version.
How Do You Perfectly Smash and Cook Burger Patties?
Smashing the beef thin creates those crispy edges that make smash burgers special. Here’s how to get it right:
- Heat your skillet or griddle on medium-high to get that great sear.
- Place a ball of ground beef on the skillet, then quickly press down firmly with a spatula to flatten it thin. Don’t press continuously—just one firm smash.
- Let it cook without moving for 2-3 minutes to form crispy, browned edges.
- Flip carefully, add cheese if using, and cook another 1-2 minutes until done.
- Work in batches if your pan is small, and avoid crowding so patties get a great crust.
Patience and firm smashing are key to juicy, flavorful patties with that satisfying crunch.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large skillet or griddle – I prefer it because it heats evenly and helps you get that crispy crust on the smashed burgers.
- Spatula – a sturdy one is best for smashing the beef quickly and pressing it flat.
- Mixing bowl – for preparing the Big Mac sauce easily.
- Measuring spoons and cups – to keep the sauce ingredients and toppings just right.
- Tongs or tongs – helpful for flipping the patties without breaking them apart.
- Tortilla warmer or plate – to keep tortillas soft and warm before assembling.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Try adding crispy bacon strips on top for extra smoky flavor and crunch.
- Use shredded cheddar, Swiss, or pepper jack cheese to change up the flavor profile.
- Mix in diced onions, jalapeños, or pickled peppers for some heat and tang.
- Switch to ground turkey or chicken for a leaner, lighter version of the burger tacos.
Big Mac Smash Burger Taco Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Tacos:
- 1 lb ground beef (preferably 80/20 for juiciness)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 4 taco-sized flour or corn tortillas (or crispy taco shells if preferred)
- 4 slices cheddar cheese or American cheese
- 1 cup shredded iceberg lettuce
- 1 medium tomato, diced
- 6-8 dill pickle slices
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion (optional)
For the Big Mac Sauce:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp ketchup
- 1 tbsp yellow mustard
- 1 tbsp sweet pickle relish
- 1 tsp white vinegar
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and cook. It’s quick to mix the sauce, cook the smash patties, warm the tortillas, and assemble the tacos. Perfect for a speedy and tasty meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Big Mac Sauce:
In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, ketchup, mustard, sweet pickle relish, white vinegar, garlic powder, and onion powder. Mix well until smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Chill in the fridge while you cook the burgers.
2. Cook the Beef Patties:
Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium-high heat. Divide the ground beef into 4 equal portions. Place one portion onto the skillet, then immediately press it down firmly with a spatula to form a thin patty. Season with salt and pepper. Repeat for each portion, cooking in batches if needed.
3. Brown and Melt Cheese on Patties:
Let the patties cook without moving them for 2-3 minutes until crispy and browned around the edges. Flip each patty and place a cheese slice on top. Cook for another 1-2 minutes, until the cheese melts and the meat is cooked through. Remove the patties from the skillet and set them aside.
4. Warm the Tortillas:
Using the same skillet or a separate pan, warm each tortilla over medium heat for about 30 seconds on each side until soft and pliable. If you like, lightly toast them for some extra texture.
5. Assemble Your Tacos:
Place a cooked beef patty on each tortilla. Add shredded lettuce, diced tomato, pickle slices, and chopped onion if you like.
6. Add the Sauce and Serve:
Drizzle the Big Mac sauce generously over the top of each taco. Fold and enjoy immediately while everything is warm and fresh!
Can I Use Frozen Ground Beef for This Recipe?
Yes, but make sure to fully thaw the ground beef in the refrigerator overnight before cooking. This ensures even cooking and better texture for smashing into patties.
Can I Make the Big Mac Sauce Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the sauce up to 3 days in advance and keep it refrigerated in an airtight container. This helps the flavors meld and saves you time on taco night.
How Should I Store Leftover Tacos?
Store leftover toppings and patties separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 2 days. Warm the patties gently, then assemble fresh tacos to keep the tortillas from getting soggy.
What Are Good Substitutions for the Tortillas?
You can use crispy taco shells for a crunchier texture or lettuce wraps for a low-carb option. Corn or flour tortillas both work well depending on your preference or dietary needs.