Savor the Crave: Easy Big Mac Smash Tacos – Your New Favorite Cheeseburger Taco Recipe!

Get ready to revolutionize your weeknight dinner with a dish that combines two of America’s beloved comfort foods: the classic Big Mac and the always-delicious taco! This Big Mac Smash Tacos recipe delivers all the iconic flavors you love in a fun, handheld package. Forget the drive-thru; mastering these Copycat Big Mac Tacos at home is easier than you think and infinitely more satisfying. Prepare for juicy seasoned beef smashed onto crispy tortillas, topped with melty cheese, fresh lettuce, crunchy pickles, and that irresistible special sauce. It’s a culinary mashup that’s guaranteed to become a family favorite, bringing the joy of a cheeseburger and a taco together in every bite!

What You’ll Need

Gathering your ingredients is the first step to creating these unforgettable smash tacos. Most items are likely already in your pantry or easily found at your local grocery store.

• 1 lb (450g) lean ground beef (80/20 recommended for flavor)
• 12 small flour tortillas (taco street size)
• 6 slices American cheese, halved
• 1/2 cup shredded iceberg lettuce
• 1/4 cup finely diced white onion
• 1/4 cup dill pickle chips, roughly chopped
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• Optional: 1 tbsp neutral oil (like canola or vegetable) for cooking, if needed

For the Special Sauce:

• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 2 tbsp ketchup
• 1 tbsp sweet pickle relish
• 1 tsp white vinegar
• 1/2 tsp onion powder
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/4 tsp paprika
• Pinch of sugar (optional, to taste)

Preparation Instructions

Get ready to cook up some serious flavor! Follow these simple steps to create delicious Big Mac Smash Tacos that will impress everyone. Recreating the iconic taste of the burger in these Copycat Big Mac Tacos is surprisingly straightforward.

1. Prepare the Special Sauce: In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, ketchup, sweet pickle relish, white vinegar, onion powder, garlic powder, paprika, and a pinch of sugar (if using). Mix well and set aside. This can be made ahead of time.
2. Portion the Beef: Divide the ground beef into 12 equal small balls (about 1.5 ounces each). Season generously with salt and pepper.
3. Heat the Griddle: Heat a large non-stick skillet or griddle over medium-high heat. If using, add a tiny bit of oil.
4. Smash the Patties: Place a beef ball directly onto the hot skillet. Immediately place a small flour tortilla on top of the beef ball. Using a sturdy spatula, press down firmly and evenly on the tortilla to smash the beef thinly onto the tortilla, creating a single unit. Repeat with as many tacos as will fit comfortably without overcrowding the pan.
5. Cook and Flip: Cook for 2-3 minutes, or until the edges of the beef are crispy and the tortilla is lightly browned. Carefully flip the taco so the beef side is now facing up.
6. Add Cheese: Immediately place half a slice of American cheese on top of the cooked beef. Continue to cook for another 1-2 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the tortilla is slightly crispy.
7. Assemble: Remove the finished tacos from the skillet and transfer to a plate.
8. Top and Serve: Spoon a generous amount of the special sauce onto the cheeseburger side. Top with shredded lettuce, diced onion, and chopped pickles. Fold gently and serve immediately. Repeat with the remaining beef balls and tortillas.

Fun Twists & Serving Ideas

• Spicy Kick: Add a dash of sriracha or a pinch of cayenne pepper to your special sauce for an extra zing.
• Bacon Cheeseburger Tacos: Crumble crispy cooked bacon over your tacos before adding the other toppings for an ultimate flavor boost.
• Mushroom Swiss: Sauté some sliced mushrooms and replace American cheese with Swiss for a gourmet twist.
• Make it a Bowl:: For a low-carb option, skip the tortilla and serve the seasoned ground beef, cheese, and toppings over a bed of shredded lettuce.
• Side Dish Suggestions: Serve with a side of crispy french fries, onion rings, or a simple green salad to complete the meal.

Frequently Asked Questions About Big Mac Smash Tacos

Q: Can I use different types of ground meat?

A: While ground beef (80/20) is recommended for the best flavor and juiciness reminiscent of a Big Mac, you can experiment with ground turkey or chicken. Just be aware the flavor profile will differ slightly, and lean ground meats may require a little extra oil to prevent sticking.

Q: What if I don’t have small flour tortillas?A: You can use larger flour tortillas, but you might need to use more ground beef per taco and adjust cooking times. Alternatively, you can cut larger tortillas into smaller rounds using a cookie cutter for the ideal “street taco” size.

Q: Can the special sauce be made in advance?A: Absolutely! The special sauce can be made up to 3-4 days in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. In fact, its flavors often meld and improve over time.

Q: How do I get the beef to stick to the tortilla?A: The key is to place the tortilla directly on top of the raw ground beef immediately after placing the beef on the hot griddle, then firmly smashing them together. The heat will help the beef adhere to the tortilla as it cooks.

Q: Are these tacos good for meal prepping?A: While best enjoyed fresh for optimal crispiness, you can prep the beef balls and the special sauce ahead of time. The cooked tacos can be stored in the fridge, but they might lose some crispness when reheated.

Conclusion: Your New Favorite Weeknight Meal Awaits!

There you have it – a simple yet incredibly satisfying way to bring the best of both worlds to your dinner table. These Big Mac Smash Tacos are not just a meal; they’re an experience, combining the nostalgic comfort of a classic burger with the convenience and fun of a taco. Whether you’re a long-time fan of the original or just looking for a creative new dish, mastering these Copycat Big Mac Tacos will quickly earn you rave reviews from family and friends. So, fire up that griddle and get ready to smash your way to dinner success!

Recipe Note: For Extra Crispiness

To achieve maximum crispiness on your tortillas, make sure your skillet or griddle is sufficiently hot before smashing the beef. A slight char on the tortilla adds a fantastic textural contrast to the juicy beef and fresh toppings. Don’t be afraid to let them cook a little longer on the tortilla side after flipping, just keep an eye on them to prevent burning.