Big Mac Smash Tacos take the classic burger flavors and turn them into a fun taco treat! These tacos are filled with juicy beef, cheese, lettuce, and special sauce, all wrapped up in a soft shell.
I love how they combine two favorites into one. It’s like hosting a party in your mouth! Just pile your toppings high and enjoy a little crunch with every bite—yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: Lean ground beef is recommended for this recipe. If you want a healthier option, try ground turkey or chicken. Plant-based ground meat also works well for a vegetarian version.
Shredded Cheese: Cheddar cheese gives a great flavor. If you’re looking for a change, Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack can add a nice twist. Vegan cheese can replace regular cheese for a dairy-free option.
Thousand Island Dressing: This is key for that Big Mac flavor. If you can’t find it, mix ketchup, mayonnaise, and pickle relish for a quick homemade alternative. You can also use ranch dressing for a different taste.
Taco Shells or Tortillas: I love classic taco shells for this recipe, but you can easily swap them for soft tortillas or even lettuce wraps for a low-carb option. Just remember to adjust your cooking times accordingly if toasting.
How Do You Ensure the Ground Beef is Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking ground beef can be tricky, but a few steps can help. Start with a skillet over medium-high heat, and remember to season right away. Breaking the beef into small pieces allows it to cook evenly.
- Cook it until it’s browned and crispy for extra flavor.
- Don’t forget to drain excess grease after cooking to keep the tacos from getting soggy.
- Letting the meat rest for a minute off the heat retains moisture and flavor.
How to Make Big Mac Smash Tacos
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- For the Filling:
- 1 lb ground beef
- Salt and pepper to taste
- For the Tacos:
- 1 cup shredded lettuce
- 1/2 cup diced onions
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 package taco shells (or tortillas)
- 1 cup Thousand Island dressing (or Big Mac sauce)
- 1 tbsp chives, chopped (for garnish)
- Optional: pickles or sliced tomatoes for topping
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 30 minutes from start to finish. You’ll spend around 10-15 minutes preparing and cooking the ground beef, plus an additional 10 minutes for assembling the tacos and adding toppings. It’s a quick and easy meal perfect for busy days!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Ground Beef:
Start by heating a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef to the pan and season it with salt and pepper. Cook the beef, breaking it into small pieces as it browns. Keep cooking until it’s crispy, which should take about 8-10 minutes. If there’s too much grease, make sure to drain it out so your tacos aren’t soggy.
2. Toast Taco Shells:
If you’re using taco shells, go ahead and lightly toast them in the oven according to the package instructions until they are crispy. If you prefer tortillas, you can toast them in a separate pan until warm and slightly crispy. This step adds a nice crunch!
3. Assemble the Tacos:
Take each taco shell and fill it with a generous amount of the cooked ground beef. Make sure to pile it up nice and high! Next, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top of the beef. Return the tacos to the heat for about 2-3 minutes until the cheese melts. Yum!
4. Add Toppings:
Once the cheese has melted perfectly, remove the tacos from the heat. Now it’s time to add your favorite toppings! Start with a handful of shredded lettuce and diced onions. Then, drizzle a good amount of Thousand Island dressing over everything. If you like, you can also top with pickles or sliced tomatoes for that extra crunch and flavor.
5. Garnish:
To add a special touch, sprinkle some chopped chives on top of each taco. This gives your tacos some beautiful color and a burst of flavor.
6. Serve:
Your Big Mac Smash Tacos are ready to enjoy! Serve them warm and feel free to pair them with your favorite sides or dips. Enjoy your tasty creation!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great substitute for ground beef and will provide a lighter option. Just be aware that ground turkey may need a bit more seasoning, so feel free to add extra spices or flavorings to complement it.
How Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
To make Big Mac Smash Tacos vegetarian, you can replace the ground beef with plant-based crumbles or black beans. Cook them the same way you would the beef, ensuring they’re well-seasoned for the best flavor.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Tacos?
Store any leftover taco fillings in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Don’t store tacos already assembled; instead, keep the components separate to avoid sogginess. Simply reheat the beef and cheese mixture before assembling fresh tacos again!
Can I Use a Different Dressing Besides Thousand Island?
Yes, feel free to use any creamy dressing you enjoy! Ranch, Caesar, or even a tangy BBQ sauce can add a fun twist to the tacos. Just adjust the amount based on your taste preference, as some dressings can be stronger than others.
