Pin it The 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. It is a fantastic option for those seeking the familiar taste of a classic American burger in a fresh, satisfying meal that can be prepared in just 25 minutes.
Pin it This dish is perfect for a quick lunch or a simple weeknight dinner. By breaking down the burger into its core components, you get a nutrient-dense bowl that doesn't compromise on the signature savory and tangy profile of the original inspiration.
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.
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 best texture, make sure to brown the beef thoroughly in the skillet, breaking it into small crumbles. Whisking the special sauce until completely smooth ensures an even distribution of the onion and garlic powders for that perfect flavor.
Varianten und Anpassungen
For a dairy-free version, use vegan cheese and mayonnaise. You can swap cheddar for American cheese for a more classic flavor, or add sliced avocado to include more healthy fats in your meal.
Serviervorschläge
Serve this bowl immediately while the beef is warm and the lettuce is crisp. For extra crunch, consider adding gluten-free croutons or a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds on top of the finished dish.
Pin it Whether you are following a low-carb diet or just looking for a fun new way to enjoy a burger, the Easy Big Mac in a Bowl is a reliable recipe that delivers big on flavor with minimal effort.
Recipe FAQs
- → Is Big Mac in a Bowl healthy?
Yes, this bowl skips the refined carbs from the bun while providing 29g of protein per serving. It's naturally gluten-free and lower in carbohydrates than the traditional version.
- → Can I meal prep Big Mac bowls?
Absolutely. Store the cooked beef, vegetables, cheese, and special sauce in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Assemble when ready to eat.
- → What makes the special sauce authentic?
The combination of mayonnaise, ketchup, mustard, pickle relish, and seasonings creates that classic tangy, creamy flavor profile. Letting it chill for 30 minutes enhances the flavors.
- → Can I use turkey instead of beef?
Yes, ground turkey works well. Season generously since it's milder than beef. You may want to add a bit more smoked paprika or Worcestershire sauce for depth.
- → Is this keto-friendly?
This bowl is perfect for keto with only 7g of net carbs per serving. All ingredients align with a ketogenic diet while delivering rich, satisfying flavors.
- → How do I make it dairy-free?
Use vegan cheddar shreds and dairy-free mayonnaise in the special sauce. The flavor remains delicious while accommodating dairy-free dietary needs.