The Viral “Big Mac” Tacos (Smashed Burger Tacos)

Is it a Taco? Is it a Burger? It’s both, and it is honestly genius. I saw this trend blowing up everywhere and was skeptical—until I took the first bite. The way the beef gets crispy on the edges because it’s smashed into the tortilla, combined with the melty cheese and that copycat special sauce… it tastes exactly like your favorite fast-food burger, but fresher, crispier, and made in your own kitchen in literally 15 minutes.

The Setup

• 🥩 1 lb Ground Beef (Use 80/20 for juiciness, but lean works too).
• 🌮 6 Small Flour Tortillas (Taco size, not burrito size).
• 🧀 American or Cheddar Cheese (Slices work best for melting).
• 🥬 Toppings: Shredded iceberg lettuce, diced white onion, and pickle slices.
• 🥣 The Secret Sauce: Mix 1/2 cup Mayo, 2 tbsp Ketchup, 1 tbsp Mustard, 1 tbsp Pickle relish (or chopped pickles), and a pinch of paprika.

Smash & Sear

1. The Prep: Season your ground beef with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Divide the meat into 6 equal balls.
2. The Smash: Take a tortilla and press a ball of meat directly onto it. Spread the meat out thin with your fingers so it covers the entire surface of the tortilla (edge to edge).
3. The Sear: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat with a tiny bit of oil. Place the tortilla meat-side down. Press it down with a spatula. Cook for 3-4 minutes until the beef is browned and crispy.
4. The Flip: Flip the tortilla over. The meat is now cooked. Place a slice of cheese on the hot meat, cover the pan with a lid for 1 minute to melt the cheese and crisp up the tortilla bottom.
5. Assemble: Remove from pan. Top with the secret sauce, lettuce, pickles, and onions. Fold and devour immediately.