Big Mac Smash Taco
Juicy beef patties smashed into crispy taco shells, drizzled with special sauce and layered with pickles and cheese – it's a fast-food mashup that'll hit the spot.
Total: 25 minPrep: 15 minCook: 10 min4 tacosDifficulty: Easy⭐ 4.8 (123+ ratings)$
Ingredients
Servings:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 4 small taco shells
- 1/4 cup special sauce (mayo, pickle relish, yellow mustard, white vinegar)
- 1/4 cup shredded lettuce
- 4 slices American cheese
- 4 dill pickle slices, chopped
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Steps
- 1 Preheat oven to 350°F to keep taco shells warm.
- 2 In a small bowl, mix special sauce ingredients until smooth.
- 3 Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- 4 Divide beef into 4 equal portions and smash each into the hot skillet to form thin patties.
- 5 Season patties with salt and pepper, then cook for 2-3 minutes per side until browned and cooked through.
- 6 Place a cheese slice on each patty and cover skillet for 1 minute until cheese melts.
- 7 Warm taco shells in oven.
- 8 Assemble tacos by placing a beef patty in each shell, top with lettuce and pickles, and drizzle with special sauce.
- 9 Serve immediately.
Equipment
- Large skillet
- Oven
- Mixing bowl
Variations
- Add a slice of tomato or a dash of hot sauce for a juicy kick.
Substitutions
- Use ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
- Substitute American cheese with cheddar or pepper jack for a different flavor profile.
Pairings
- Pair with a classic cola or an icy lemonade for a refreshing contrast.
Nutrition
Calories:
450 kcal
Fat:
26g fat
Carbs:
30g carbohydrates
Protein:
25g protein
Fiber:
2g fiber
Sugar:
4g sugar
Sodium:
800mg sodium
Tips
- For extra crispy taco shells, bake them in the oven for 5 minutes before assembling.
- If you don’t have special sauce on hand, a tangy thousand island dressing works as a great substitute.
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in the oven to maintain taco shell crispiness.
Freezing: These tacos do not freeze well due to the taco shells becoming soggy when thawed.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with a side of crispy fries and a tangy coleslaw for a complete fast-food feast.
FAQ
Can I make the special sauce ahead of time?
Yes, prepare the special sauce up to a day in advance and store it in the fridge.