Easy Big Mac in a Bowl

The Easy Big Mac in a Bowl is a healthier, gluten-free deconstructed burger bowl that captures all the iconic flavors of the classic Big Mac without the bun. It’s a perfect solution for a quick and satisfying meal that feels indulgent while remaining light and fresh.

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This deconstructed burger bowl combines seasoned lean ground beef with crisp romaine lettuce and a tangy homemade special sauce. It is a vibrant, colorful dish that is as pleasing to the eye as it is to the palate.

Ingredients

• 500 g (1.1 lb) lean ground beef
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
• 1 head romaine lettuce, chopped
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
• 2 dill pickles, diced
• 100 g (1 cup) shredded cheddar cheese
• 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

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

To ensure the beef is flavorful and has a nice texture, allow it to brown thoroughly in the skillet before breaking it apart. Using a whisk for the special sauce helps emulsify the ingredients for a perfectly creamy finish.

Varianten und Anpassungen

For a more classic flavor, you can swap the shredded cheddar for American cheese. To make this recipe dairy-free, simply use vegan cheese and mayonnaise. For an extra boost of healthy fats, consider adding some sliced avocado on top.

Serviervorschläge

Serve these bowls immediately to enjoy the contrast of warm beef against the cold, crisp lettuce. For an added crunch that mimics a traditional burger bun, sprinkle the top with toasted sesame seeds or gluten-free croutons.

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Enjoy this fresh take on a classic fast-food favorite. It’s a delicious, high-protein meal that brings the nostalgic taste of a burger to your table in a whole new, healthy way.

Recipe FAQs

→ Is Big Mac in a Bowl keto-friendly?

Yes, this bowl is naturally low-carb and keto-friendly. With only 7g of net carbs per serving, it fits perfectly into a ketogenic diet when you use full-fat mayonnaise and cheese.

→ Can I make the special sauce ahead of time?

Absolutely. The special sauce can be prepared up to a week in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The flavors actually meld better after sitting for a day or two.

→ What can I substitute for ground beef?

Ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based crumbles work well as alternatives. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly and season generously to maintain the bold flavor profile.

→ How should I store leftovers?

Store components separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the sauce separate and add fresh when serving to prevent the lettuce from wilting.

→ Can I freeze this bowl?

You can freeze the cooked seasoned beef for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. Assemble bowls fresh with crisp vegetables and sauce for best results.