Easy Big Mac in a Bowl

Easy Big Mac in a Bowl is a healthier, gluten-free deconstructed burger bowl that captures all the iconic Big Mac flavors without the bun. This American classic is perfect for a quick, satisfying meal that brings the nostalgic taste of a fast-food favorite to your table in just 25 minutes.

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This recipe uses lean ground beef and fresh vegetables to recreate the famous burger experience. By preparing a homemade special sauce with mayonnaise, mustard, and relish, you can enjoy a nutritious version of a classic American dish.

Ingredients

• Beef: 500 g (1.1 lb) lean ground beef, 1/2 tsp salt, 1/2 tsp black pepper, 1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
• Vegetables: 1 head romaine lettuce (chopped), 1 cup cherry tomatoes (halved), 1/2 red onion (thinly sliced), 2 dill pickles (diced)
• Cheese: 100 g (1 cup) shredded cheddar cheese
• Special Sauce: 120 g (1/2 cup) mayonnaise, 1 tbsp ketchup, 1 tbsp yellow mustard, 1 tbsp dill pickle relish, 1 tsp white vinegar, 1/2 tsp onion powder, 1/2 tsp garlic powder, 1/2 tsp paprika

Collect vegetable peels, food scraps, and trimmings while cooking to keep your kitchen clean and organized.

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Instructions

Step 1

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add ground beef, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. Cook, breaking up the beef, until browned and cooked through, about 6–8 minutes. Drain excess fat if needed.

Step 2

While the beef cooks, prepare the vegetables: chop lettuce, halve tomatoes, slice onion, and dice pickles.

Step 3

In a small bowl, whisk together all special sauce ingredients until smooth.

Step 4

To assemble, divide lettuce among 4 bowls. Top with ground beef, tomatoes, onions, pickles, and shredded cheese.

Step 5

Drizzle each bowl with the special sauce. Serve immediately.

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

Using a large skillet ensures the beef browns evenly. Make sure to use a whisk to combine the special sauce ingredients until the texture is completely smooth. Draining the excess fat from the beef is essential to keep the lettuce crisp when assembling the bowls.

Varianten und Anpassungen

For extra crunch, add gluten-free croutons or toasted sesame seeds. You can swap cheddar for American cheese for a more classic flavor or add sliced avocado for healthy fats. To make this dish dairy-free, use vegan cheese and mayonnaise.

Serviervorschläge

This recipe yields 4 servings. Assemble the bowls just before eating to ensure the ingredients remain fresh, and serve immediately after drizzling with the special sauce for the best experience.

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Enjoy this Easy Big Mac in a Bowl as a delicious, gluten-free, and low-carb alternative to traditional fast food. It captures all the flavors you love in a wholesome and satisfying way.

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Recipe Questions & Answers

→ What makes this bowl healthier than a traditional Big Mac?

By removing the refined carbohydrate bun and using lean ground beef with fresh vegetables, this version reduces calories while increasing fiber and nutrients. The special sauce uses simple ingredients without preservatives found in fast-food versions.

→ Can I make the special sauce ahead of time?

Absolutely. The special sauce actually benefits from chilling for 30 minutes to 2 hours before serving, allowing the flavors to meld together. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.

→ What protein alternatives work well in this bowl?

Ground turkey or chicken can replace the beef for a lighter option. For vegetarians, plant-based ground crumbles or seasoned lentils provide excellent protein while maintaining the bowl's satisfying texture.

→ How can I customize the vegetables?

Add shredded carrots, cucumber slices, or bell peppers for extra crunch. Avocado brings creaminess, while sliced jalapeños offer heat. The vegetable base is highly adaptable to personal preferences and seasonal availability.

→ Is this suitable for meal prep?

Yes, this bowl meal preps beautifully. Store components separately in airtight containers - the seasoned beef, chopped vegetables, cheese, and sauce keep well for 3-4 days. Assemble just before serving to maintain ideal texture.

→ What sides complement this bowl?

Additional roasted vegetables, a simple side salad, or sweet potato fries pair nicely. For a complete meal, serve with extra crudités and hummus, or keep it light as a standalone protein-rich bowl.