How to Make the Perfect Big Mac Smash Tacos
American · Easy · 30 min · 4 servings
These Big Mac Smash Tacos combine the iconic flavors of a classic burger with the fun format of a street taco. Each bite delivers juicy smashed beef, special sauce, and all the classic toppings wrapped in a crispy tortilla shell.
Why this recipe works
This Big Mac Smash Tacos recipe has been crafted to deliver restaurant-quality results in your home kitchen. At just 30 minutes from start to finish, it fits perfectly into a busy schedule without sacrificing flavor. Each serving comes in at 520 calories with 28g of protein, making it a balanced choice for any meal.
What you will need
This recipe uses 8 simple ingredients that you can find at any grocery store:
- 1 lb 80/20 ground beef
- 8 count small flour tortillas
- 0.5 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp yellow mustard
- 1 cup shredded iceberg lettuce
- 4 slices American cheese
- 0.5 cup diced white onion
- 0.25 cup dill pickle slices
Step by step instructions
Step 1: Make the Special Sauce
In a small bowl combine mayonnaise, yellow mustard, and a pinch of garlic powder. Stir until smooth and set aside in the refrigerator.
Step 2: Portion the Beef
Divide the ground beef into 8 equal balls, each about 2 ounces. Season each ball generously with salt and black pepper on all sides.
Step 3: Smash the Beef onto Tortillas
Heat a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Place a beef ball onto a tortilla and use a spatula to smash it flat directly onto the dry skillet. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes until the edges are crispy and browned.
Step 4: Add Cheese and Flip
Place a slice of American cheese on the beef, then fold the tortilla over to form a taco shape. Press gently and cook for another 1 minute until the tortilla is golden and the cheese has melted.
Step 5: Assemble and Serve
Open each taco and spread special sauce on the inside. Top with shredded iceberg lettuce, diced white onion, and dill pickle slices. Serve immediately while hot and crispy.
Easy substitutions
Missing an ingredient? Here are some swaps that work perfectly:
- flour tortillas → corn tortillas for a gluten free option
- mayonnaise → Greek yogurt for a lighter sauce base
- American cheese → cheddar cheese slices for a sharper flavor
Common mistakes to avoid
Watch out for these pitfalls that can affect your results:
- Using lean ground beef which results in dry and less flavorful smash patties
- Not preheating the skillet enough causing the beef to steam rather than sear
- Overfilling the taco with toppings which makes it impossible to fold and eat cleanly
Nutrition facts
Per serving: 520 calories, 28g protein, 34g carbs, 30g fat, 2g fiber.
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