We Made The Viral 'Big Mac Tacos': Is It Actually Better Than McDonald's?

If your For You Page looks anything like ours, you haven't been able to escape the smash burger tacos.

The premise is simple: Take a tortilla, smash seasoned ground beef onto it, fry it face down, flip it, cheese it, and top it with pickles, lettuce, and that iconic sauce. But does it taste like a Big Mac? And more importantly, is it worth the greasy stovetop cleanup?

The Viral Source

Here's the video that started it all, racking up over 50M views collectively across the platform.

The Essential Tools

You don't need much, but a good smash tool is non-negotiable if you want that crispy edge.

The Recipe

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef (80/20 fat ratio)
• 4 small flour tortillas
• Salt & pepper
• 4 slices American cheese
• Shredded iceberg lettuce
• Diced pickles
• Minced white onion

The "Secret" Sauce Recipe

• 1/2 cup mayo
• 2 tbsp ketchup
• 1 tbsp mustard
• 1 tbsp pickle relish
• 1/2 tsp paprika
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder

Instructions

1. The Smash: Season your beef before putting it on the tortilla. Take a golf-ball-sized amount of meat and press it thinly onto the tortilla until it covers the surface.
2. The Sear: Heat your skillet to medium-high. Place the tortilla meat-side down directly onto the hot pan. Press down with your spatula. Cook for 3-4 minutes.
3. The Flip & Melt: Flip the tortilla over. The meat should be crispy. Add cheese and cover with a lid for 30 seconds to melt.
4. Assemble: Remove from pan. Top with sauce, lettuce, pickles, and onions.
5. Eat: Fold and enjoy immediately!

The Verdict