The Big Mac Smash Burger Taco is a fun twist on a classic favorite! Imagine the juicy, perfectly smashed beef patty packed with that iconic Big Mac flavor, all tucked inside a soft taco shell. You’ll find the familiar combo of melted cheese, crisp lettuce, tangy pickles, and that special sauce that has made the Big Mac famous—now wrapped up in a handheld taco form.
I love making these when I want something playful and satisfying. The smash burger technique gives the beef a nice crispy edge, which adds a great texture to the taco. Plus, adding the usual Big Mac toppings keeps all the flavors we know and love while switching things up from the usual burger bun. It’s a great way to surprise friends or family with a tasty twist during taco night.
Whenever I serve these, I like to have a side of crispy fries or even some simple coleslaw to keep things fresh. Watching everyone’s faces light up as they bite into a familiar but new dish always makes me happy. If you’re a Big Mac fan looking for a fun and easy recipe, this taco version might just become your new go-to dinner idea!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef (80/20 blend): This mix gives you juicy, flavorful patties with enough fat to get those crispy edges when smashed. If you prefer leaner meat, go for 85/15, but the burger won’t be as juicy.
Hard Taco Shells: These provide a crunchy bite that’s different from the usual bun. If you want something softer, use soft flour tortillas instead.
American Cheese: This melts beautifully and gives that classic Big Mac taste. You can swap with processed cheddar or even Velveeta slices for a similar creamy melt.
Iceberg Lettuce: Its crisp, mild texture balances the rich burger. Romaine or green leaf lettuce works too, but iceberg is my fave for the crunch.
Big Mac Sauce: The sauce is the star here! Homemade Thousand Island-style dressing brings that tangy sweetness. If you’re short on time, store-bought Thousand Island or burger sauce are good shortcuts.
How Can I Get Perfect Crispy Edges on My Smash Burgers?
Getting those crispy browned edges is what makes a smash burger special. Here’s how I do it:
- Preheat your skillet or griddle until it’s very hot – this helps the meat sear fast.
- Place the ball of beef on the hot pan, then smash it down flat with a strong spatula or burger press to thin it out.
- Don’t move the patty while it cooks; letting it sit untouched creates the crust.
- Cook for about 2 minutes, then flip carefully and add cheese right away.
- Cook about 1-2 minutes more until melted and cooked through.
This method seals in juices but also caramelizes the beef, giving you that perfect texture for the taco. Be careful not to overcrowd the pan or the patties will steam instead of crisp.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large cast-iron skillet or griddle – I love it because it gets super hot for a good sear and crisps up the edges nicely.
- Spatula or burger press – helps smash the beef flat quickly and evenly for that perfect crunch.
- Small bowl and spoon – for mixing the Big Mac sauce easily.
- Tongs or a slotted spatula – to flip the patties carefully without breaking them.
- Hard taco shells – to hold all the tasty layers and keep things crunchy.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap ground turkey or chicken for leaner, lighter patties—great for a healthier twist.
- Use pepper jack or smoked cheddar instead of American cheese for extra flavor.
- Add sliced tomatoes or avocado for freshness and creaminess.
- Mix in crispy bacon bits or caramelized onions for richer, deeper flavors.
Big Mac Smash Burger Taco Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Smash Burger Tacos:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 4 hard taco shells
- 4 slices American cheese or processed cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded iceberg lettuce
- 1/2 cup finely chopped white onion
- 1/4 cup dill pickle slices, chopped or sliced thin
- 1/4 cup Thousand Island dressing or Big Mac sauce (see below)
- Optional: shredded cheddar cheese for topping
For the Big Mac Sauce:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp French dressing
- 1 tbsp sweet pickle relish
- 1 tsp white vinegar
- 1 tsp sugar
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- Pinch of salt
Time Needed
This recipe takes approximately 15 minutes to prepare and cook. It’s a quick and satisfying meal, perfect for weeknights or casual gatherings.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Big Mac Sauce
In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, French dressing, sweet pickle relish, white vinegar, sugar, onion powder, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt. Stir thoroughly until everything is mixed well. Refrigerate the sauce until you’re ready to use it—this gives the flavors time to blend.
2. Cook the Smash Burger Patties
Divide your ground beef into four equal balls. Heat a large cast-iron skillet or griddle over medium-high heat until it’s very hot. Place one portion of beef onto the skillet, then press it firmly with a spatula to smash it flat—about the size of your taco shell. Sprinkle with salt and pepper. Let it cook undisturbed for about 2 minutes, or until edges are browned and crispy.
3. Flip and Add Cheese
Carefully flip the patties over. Immediately place a slice of American cheese on each patty and cook for another 1–2 minutes, until the cheese melts and the burger is cooked through.
4. Warm the Taco Shells
Heat your hard taco shells according to package instructions or place them in a preheated oven for a few minutes to toast and crisp further.
5. Assemble Your Big Mac Smash Burger Tacos
Spread a spoonful of the Big Mac sauce inside each taco shell. Add a cheesy smash burger patty, then top with shredded lettuce, chopped onions, and pickles. Drizzle or dollop more sauce over the top. For extra cheesiness, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese if you like.
6. Serve and Enjoy!
Serve immediately so your tacos stay crispy and fresh. Enjoy the delicious bundle of Big Mac flavors with a fun, crunchy taco twist!
Can I Use Frozen Ground Beef for This Recipe?
Yes, you can! Just make sure to thaw the ground beef completely in the refrigerator overnight before cooking. This helps the patties cook evenly and get those crispy edges when smashed.
Can I Make the Big Mac Sauce Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! The sauce actually tastes better if it sits for a few hours or overnight in the fridge, as the flavors have time to meld. Store it in an airtight container and use within 3-4 days.
How Should I Store Leftover Tacos?
Since hard taco shells can get soggy, it’s best to store the patties and toppings separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat the patties in a skillet, warm the shells separately, then assemble.
Can I Use Soft Tortillas Instead of Hard Taco Shells?
Yes! Soft flour tortillas make a great alternative if you prefer a wrap-style taco that’s easy to fold. Just warm them gently to make them pliable before assembling.