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Keto Big Mac Smash Burgers

Keto Big Mac Smash Burgers

Juicy, crispy-edged keto smash burgers with authentic Big Mac flavor and homemade special sauce. Only 3g net carbs per serving!
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Prep Time 8 minutes
Cook Time 6 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 425
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Smash Burger Patties:
  • - 1 lb ground beef 80/20 blend
  • - 1 tsp garlic powder
  • - 1 tsp onion powder
  • - 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
  • - Salt and black pepper to taste
  • - 4 slices American cheese
For the Big Mac Special Sauce:
  • - 1/2 cup mayonnaise avocado oil-based preferred
  • - 2 tbsp sugar-free ketchup
  • - 1 tbsp dill pickle juice
  • - 1 tsp yellow mustard
  • - 1 tsp white vinegar
  • - 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • - 1/2 tsp onion powder
  • - 1/4 tsp sweet paprika
For Assembly:
  • - 8 large butter lettuce leaves
  • - 1/4 cup finely diced white onion
  • - 12 dill pickle slices
  • - 2 tbsp sesame seeds optional

Equipment

  • - Cast iron skillet or heavy griddle
  • - Heavy spatula or burger press
  • - Medium mixing bowl
  • - Whisk
  • - Paper towels

Method
 

  1. Prepare the Big Mac Sauce: Whisk together mayonnaise, sugar-free ketchup, pickle juice, mustard, vinegar, and all spices in a medium bowl. Let rest for 5 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
  2. Form and Season the Beef: Divide ground beef into 8 loose balls (2 oz each). Season generously with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Keep balls loose for maximum smashability.
  3. Heat Your Cooking Surface: Preheat a cast iron skillet or griddle over medium-high heat until smoking hot for perfect caramelization.
  4. Smash and Cook the Patties: Place beef balls on hot surface and immediately smash with heavy spatula. Apply firm pressure for 10 seconds. Cook for 90 seconds until edges are crispy and caramelized.
  5. Flip and Add Cheese: Carefully flip patties and immediately place cheese on 4 of them. Cook for another 60 seconds until cheese melts and bubbles.
  6. Prepare Lettuce Wraps: Select largest, most cup-shaped lettuce leaves and pat completely dry. Arrange on serving plates.
  7. Assemble Your Burgers: Layer lettuce, special sauce, plain patty, diced onions, pickles, more sauce, cheese-covered patty, sesame seeds (if using), and crown with final lettuce leaf.

Notes

- Smashing Technique: Use aggressive pressure when smashing for maximum caramelization and crispy edges.
- Heat Level: Ensure your cooking surface is smoking hot before adding beef balls.
- Lettuce Selection: Butter lettuce works best for wrapping, but iceberg provides extra crunch.
- Make-Ahead: Special sauce improves in flavor after 24 hours. Patties can be cooked and stored for up to 3 days.
- Substitutions: Use ground turkey for leaner option, or dairy-free cheese for lactose-free version.
Nutrition Facts
Per serving (1 burger):
- Calories: 425
- Net Carbs: 3g
- Protein: 32g
- Fat: 31g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sodium: 680mg