If you’re a fan of the iconic Big Mac but are looking for a healthier, low-carb alternative, the Big Mac Bowl is the perfect recipe for you. Packed with all the flavors you love—savory beef, tangy pickles, shredded cheddar cheese, and creamy Big Mac sauce—this salad-style adaptation will satisfy your fast-food cravings without the bun. Ready in just 20 minutes, this recipe is as quick as it is delicious, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or meal prep.

Why You’ll Love This Big Mac Bowl

Low-Carb and Keto-Friendly: Skip the bun and enjoy the same amazing flavors in a lighter, healthier format.
Quick and Easy: With a total prep and cook time of just 20 minutes, you can enjoy this fast-food-inspired meal in no time.
Customizable: Add your favorite toppings, adjust the seasoning, or swap the ground beef for ground turkey to suit your taste and dietary needs.

Ingredients for the Big Mac Bowl

Here’s everything you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

For the Bowl:

1 lb ground beef (80/20): Provides rich flavor and protein.
½ teaspoon sea salt and ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper: Simple seasonings to enhance the beef.
1 tablespoon olive oil: For cooking the beef.
2 teaspoons minced garlic: Adds depth to the flavor.
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: A classic topping for that cheeseburger taste.
4+ dill pickles, sliced: For tangy crunch.
½ cup onion, minced: Adds a fresh, sharp bite.
1 head iceberg lettuce: The crisp base for your salad.
½ teaspoon sesame seeds or everything bagel seasoning: Optional garnish for a touch of authenticity.

For the Big Mac Sauce:

½ cup mayo: The creamy base of the sauce.
2 tablespoons low-carb pickle relish: Or use chopped pickles with a splash of pickle juice for added tang.
1 tablespoon ketchup: A hint of sweetness and color.
½ teaspoon yellow mustard: Adds the signature tangy flavor.
¼ teaspoon monk fruit sweetener: Adjust as needed if using chopped pickles instead of relish.
½ teaspoon garlic salt: For seasoning.
¼ teaspoon onion powder: Enhances the savory flavor profile.

Equipment You’ll Need

Skillet: For cooking the ground beef.
Mixing Bowl: To prepare the Big Mac sauce.
Meal Prep Containers or Bowls: For assembling the salad.

How to Make the Big Mac Bowl

This recipe comes together in three easy steps: cooking the beef, making the sauce, and assembling the bowl.

Step 1: Cook the Beef

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the olive oil.
Add the ground beef, salt, pepper, and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook the beef, stirring occasionally, until it’s no longer pink in the middle (about 6-7 minutes).
Drain excess grease and set the beef aside to cool slightly while you prepare the other ingredients.

Step 2: Make the Big Mac Sauce

In a small mixing bowl, combine the mayo, pickle relish, ketchup, yellow mustard, sweetener, garlic salt, and onion powder.
Whisk the ingredients together until smooth and creamy. Adjust seasoning to taste.
Set the sauce aside or refrigerate if you’re preparing it in advance.

Step 3: Assemble the Big Mac Bowl

Lay a generous portion of chopped iceberg lettuce in the bottom of your bowl or meal prep container.
Top the lettuce with the cooked ground beef, spreading it evenly.
Add sliced pickles, minced onions, and shredded cheddar cheese over the beef.
Drizzle the Big Mac sauce over the salad or serve it on the side for dipping.
Sprinkle sesame seeds or everything bagel seasoning for an authentic burger-inspired garnish.
Add salt and pepper to taste. Customize your bowl with additional pickles, onions, or cheese if desired.

Tips and Variations

Add Color and Nutrients:
- While tomatoes aren’t part of a traditional Big Mac, they make an excellent addition for a pop of color and extra flavor.
- Feel free to mix in other low-carb vegetables like spinach, arugula, or shredded cabbage for more variety.
Make It Lighter:
- Substitute ground beef with lean ground turkey or chicken to cut down on fat and calories.
- Use reduced-fat mayo and cheese for a lighter version of the sauce.
Save Time:
- Replace the homemade Big Mac sauce with store-bought low-carb Thousand Island dressing or Sir Kensington’s Special Sauce.
Meal Prep-Friendly:
- Assemble the salad in meal prep containers without the sauce and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Add the sauce just before eating to keep everything fresh.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Calories: 530 kcal
Protein: High in protein thanks to the ground beef and cheddar cheese.
Carbs: Low-carb ingredients like lettuce, pickles, and monk fruit sweetener keep this meal keto-friendly.
Fats: Healthy fats from olive oil, mayo, and cheese make this salad satisfying and filling.

Why the Big Mac Bowl Is Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether you’re on a keto diet, looking to meal prep for the week, or simply craving the flavors of a Big Mac without the guilt, this Big Mac Bowl is the ultimate solution. It’s easy to make, highly customizable, and packed with bold, satisfying flavors. Serve it as a quick lunch, a fun dinner option, or even a crowd-pleaser at a potluck.

FAQs About the Big Mac Bowl

1. Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes! Substitute the ground beef with plant-based ground meat or crumbled tofu for a vegetarian version.

2. How do I store leftovers?

Store the components of the Big Mac Bowl separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. This prevents the lettuce from becoming soggy.

3. Can I use a different type of lettuce?

Absolutely! Romaine or butter lettuce work well as alternatives to iceberg lettuce.

4. What other toppings can I add?

Feel free to experiment with toppings like crumbled bacon, jalapeños, or avocado for extra flavor and texture.