Smash Burger Tacos

If you're a fan of smash burgers but want a fresh, low-carb & macro-friendly way to enjoy them, these Smash Burger Tacos are the perfect solution! Juicy, crispy-edged beef, gooey melted cheese, and a tangy homemade burger sauce—all wrapped in butter lettuce for a satisfying, high-protein meal. Whether you're following a keto lifestyle or just love a good burger with a twist, this recipe is a must-try!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

High-Protein & Low-Carb: All the flavors of a classic smash burger without the bun
Quick & Easy: Ready in under 20 minutes
Crispy, Juicy, & Cheesy: Everything you love about a burger, in taco form

Ingredients

For the Smash Burger Patties:

  • ½ lb 85/15 ground beef (or more, depending on servings)

  • American Cheese (I used Sprouts Organic American, or preferred cheese)

  • Butter lettuce leaves (as the taco “shells”)

  • Salt & pepper, to taste

  • Cooking oil (for smashing burgers)

For the Homemade Burger Sauce:

  • ¼ cup mayo

  • 1 tbsp ketchup

  • 1 tsp mustard

  • ½ tsp pickle juice

  • ½ tsp paprika

  • ½ tsp garlic powder

  • Salt & pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Make the Burger Sauce: In a small bowl, mix all sauce ingredients until well combined. Set aside.

  2. Prepare the Beef: Divide the ground beef into small balls, about 2.5 oz each.

  3. Smash & Cook: Heat a skillet or griddle over medium-high heat with a bit of oil. Place each beef ball onto the hot surface and smash it down firmly with a spatula to create thin, crispy edges. Season with salt and pepper.

  4. Crisp up the tortilla & Melt the Cheese: Add Mission Zero Net Carb Tortillas or your favorite tortilla to the oiled skillet and top with your cheese and patty seared side down, once cheese is slightly melted flip taco and brown other side of patty.

  5. Assemble the Tacos: Place each patty onto a butter lettuce leaf. Drizzle with homemade burger sauce and add extra toppings if desired (like pickles, onions, or jalapeños).

  6. Enjoy! Serve immediately while warm.

Macros Per Smash Burger Taco

  • Calories: ~250 kcal

  • Protein: ~26g

  • Carbs: ~3g

  • Fats: ~19g

These Smash Burger Tacos are a game-changer for anyone looking to enjoy a classic burger experience with fewer carbs. The butter lettuce keeps them light, while the crispy beef and melted cheese deliver maximum flavor. They’re quick, easy, and perfect for meal prep or a weeknight dinner.

If you try this recipe, tag me @kevthedietitian on Instagram—I’d love to see your creations!

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