The first time I made these viral Big Mac Tacos, my family really loved them. The sauce alone was enough to make them absolutely delicious, but I didn’t think I would cook them again. After all, how could a taco replace a big, juicy homemade burger? It’s now been several months since, and I have found myself making these at least once a fortnight – the kids kept asking for them, but now I’m just as addicted! The tacos are so easy to make, come together in less than 30 minutes, are inexpensive, and just so incredibly moreish and tasty! These Big Mac Tacos are also filling but don’t leave you with the same heaviness that a burger does, being cooked in a tortilla and not bread. You can top them with any salads you like, but I love the classic lettuce and pickles combo. The special burger sauce is good. Like, REALLY good! Luckily, the recipe is generous in serving size so that there is enough for dipping – some homemade wedges are so delicious on the side with these! You really can’t go wrong with this dish – all the gorgeous flavours of a burger in a crunchy taco. What’s not to like!
How do I make the perfect Big Mac Taco?
The beef – Ensure the minced (ground) beef is packed onto the tortilla in a thin layer. This will not only mean the fat renders out quickly (which limits the grease), but also stops the beef from flaking off the tortilla. Regular minced beef is best as it’s super juicy (20% fat – the regular kind from the supermarket), but it can be hard to work with as it releases a lot of moisture and oil as it cooks. Lean minced beef is much easier to work with (less grease!) and I still find it produces juicy and delicious results.A hot pan – Make sure your pan is hot enough. A medium–high heat is required to cook the beef quickly and stop it sliding off the tortilla. A cast-iron pan is best; if you are using a regular non-stick pan, you may need to adjust the heat to high.When to season – Only add seasoning (salt and pepper) when you are ready to cook. Leaving the minced (ground) beef to sit around with salt causes tough beef tacos!
Can I vary the fillings in the taco?
You could use baby rocket (arugula) instead of lettuce, and also add grated carrot, sliced tomato, cucumber or whatever salad ingredients you like. The special burger sauce is quite mild, so if you want a bit of heat just add a dash of hot sauce.
Can I use the special burger sauce with other recipes?
Yes! The sauce is so delicious that I tend to make it on its own and use it as a dip for wedges, use it in potato salad, in sandwiches as a relish with roast beef and, best of all, in a sub or wrap with my Beef Rissoles with salad.
How can I be sure I’ve cooked the beef all the way through?
While the tortilla is cooking, beef-side down, have a peek! Simply fold up the edge of the tortilla and you will see the progress of the beef. If it’s still pink, continue cooking. If it’s brown with no pink visible, it’s ready.
Watch how to make Big Mac Tacos
What are some other great “fakeaway” recipes?
If you enjoy a “homemade takeout”, I think you’ll love: Spring Rolls BowlsLoaded Burger BowlsPortuguese Chicken BurgersSouthern Fried ChickenLoaded Veggie Nachos 5 from 7 reviews
1 cup (250 g) whole-egg mayonnaise 2 tbsp finely chopped gherkins (dill pickles) 1 tsp dijon mustard 1 tbsp ketchup ½ tsp sweet paprika 1 tsp onion powder 1 tsp garlic powder Salt, to taste Cracked black pepper, to taste
TACOS
500 g (1 lb 2 oz) minced (ground) beef (lean or regular, see note 1) 8 small soft flour tortillas 1 tsp salt ½ tsp cracked black pepper Olive oil spray 8 slices American (burger) cheese 2 cups (60 g) shredded lettuce (iceberg, cos/romaine or gem lettuce) ½ cup (75 g) sliced gherkins (dill pickles) ½ onion, finely diced
Tacos
MAKE AHEAD
Special burger sauce – Can be made ahead of time. Combine the ingredients and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
LEFTOVERS
Big Mac Tacos are best made and eaten immediately. Not suitable to freeze.