Low Carb Big Mac Crispy Tortilla Cups are a fun and delicious way to enjoy the classic flavors of a Big Mac without the carbs. These crispy cups are filled with seasoned ground beef, cheese, and all the favorite toppings, including a homemade Big Mac sauce that tastes just like the real thing. Perfect for a low-carb meal or a party appetizer, these tortilla cups are sure to be a hit! Let’s get cooking!
Table of Contents
- Ingredients
- Instructions
- Cook’s Notes and Tips
- Variations
- Serving Suggestions
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Conclusion
Ingredients
For the Tortilla Cups
- 4 low-carb tortillas
- Olive oil spray
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
For the Homemade Big Mac Sauce
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons sugar-free ketchup
- 1 tablespoon pickle relish
- 1 teaspoon white vinegar
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
For Toppings
- Shredded iceberg lettuce
- Pickle slices
- Diced onions
- Sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
Prepare the Tortilla Cups
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cut and Shape Tortillas: Cut each low-carb tortilla into quarters. Spray a muffin tin with olive oil spray, then press each tortilla piece into the muffin cups to create a small tortilla cup. Lightly spray the tops with olive oil.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes, or until the tortilla cups are golden and crispy. Remove from the oven and set aside.
Cook the Ground Beef
- Cook Beef: In a skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Cook, breaking up the beef with a spatula, until fully browned and cooked through. Drain excess fat if necessary.
- Add Cheese: Once the beef is cooked, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the beef. Stir until the cheese is melted and well combined. Remove from heat.
Make the Homemade Big Mac Sauce
- Mix the Sauce: In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, sugar-free ketchup, pickle relish, white vinegar, onion powder, paprika, and garlic powder. Stir until well blended and smooth.
Assemble the Tortilla Cups
- Fill the Cups: Spoon the cheesy beef mixture into each crispy tortilla cup.
- Top with Toppings: Top each cup with shredded lettuce, diced onions, pickle slices, and a drizzle of the homemade Big Mac sauce. Sprinkle with sesame seeds if desired.
Cook’s Notes and Tips
- Crispiness: Make sure the tortilla cups are crispy before filling to ensure they hold up well. You can bake them a bit longer if needed, just keep an eye on them so they don’t burn.
- Ground Beef: An 80/20 blend of ground beef works best for flavor and juiciness. Drain excess fat to keep the mixture from being too greasy.
- Sauce Consistency: Adjust the consistency of the Big Mac sauce by adding a bit more vinegar for tanginess or more mayonnaise for creaminess.
Variations
- Chicken Tortilla Cups: Substitute the ground beef with ground chicken or turkey for a lighter version.
- Spicy Big Mac Cups: Add 1/2 teaspoon of cayenne pepper to the ground beef mixture for a spicy kick, and use spicy pickle relish in the sauce.
- Vegetarian Option: Use plant-based ground meat and vegan cheese to make a vegetarian-friendly version of these delicious cups.
Serving Suggestions
- Appetizer Platter: Serve these cups as part of an appetizer platter with other low-carb snacks like stuffed mini bell peppers or cucumber bites.
- Main Course: Pair with a side salad for a complete low-carb meal.
- Game Day Snack: These tortilla cups are perfect for game day gatherings or parties, served alongside other favorite finger foods.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I Make These Tortilla Cups Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the tortilla cups and cook the ground beef mixture ahead of time. Store them separately and assemble just before serving for the best texture.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover tortilla cups in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) to maintain crispiness before serving.
Can I Use Regular Tortillas?
If you’re not concerned about carbs, you can use regular flour tortillas instead of low-carb tortillas. The baking and preparation steps remain the same.
How Do I Make the Tortilla Cups Extra Crispy?
To make the tortilla cups extra crispy, bake them a few minutes longer and ensure they are fully golden before removing from the oven. You can also brush them lightly with olive oil for additional crispiness.
Can I Use Store-Bought Big Mac Sauce?
Yes, if you have access to store-bought Big Mac sauce, you can use it instead of making it from scratch. However, making your own allows you to control the ingredients and flavor.
Low Carb Big Mac Crispy Tortilla Cups are a fun and tasty way to enjoy the flavors of a classic Big Mac in a low-carb, bite-sized form. These crispy cups are perfect for parties, family dinners, or just a fun twist on a traditional burger. Gather your ingredients, get creative with the toppings, and enjoy these delicious, low-carb Big Mac tortilla cups!
Happy Cooking!