Easy Big Mac in a Bowl
Imagine the iconic flavors of a Big Mac and the fun of a Happy Meal, reimagined in a healthier, deconstructed bowl format. This recipe captures the essence of those fast-food favorites without the processed ingredients.
Think seasoned ground beef, that signature “secret sauce” (often a blend of mayo, ketchup, mustard, and relish), shredded lettuce, diced onions, and pickles, all served over a base of roasted potatoes instead of a bun. You can make the meal even lighter by using a base of cauliflower rice or chopped salad greens.
It’s a creative method to enjoy familiar tastes in a lighter way, allowing for customization based on dietary needs and preferences. By swapping out the bun and fries for nutrient-rich alternatives, this recipe transforms a classic indulgence into a more balanced and wholesome option, perfect for a fun and guilt-free meal.
If you like this recipe, you will also love my Quick Crunchy Baked Chipotle Beef Tacos or my Arayes (Crispy Meat Stuffed Pitas).
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Easy Big Mac in a Bowl
Equipment
- large skillet
Ingredients
Potatoes:
- 1 large sweet potato, cubed small
- 1 large potato, cubed small
- 2 tbs olive oil
- 3/4 tsp each salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder + paprika
Ground Meat:
- 1 tbs olive oil
- 2 lbs ground beef
- 1½ tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp each garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, chili powder, dried oregano + cumin
- 1/3 cup low sodium chicken broth
Toppings:
- 1 cup shredded cheese
- 2 cups lettuce, shredded
- 8 oz tomatoes, diced
- 1/2 cup pickles, diced
- 2 avocados, mashed
- toasted sesame seeds
Big Mac Sauce:
- 1/3 cup mayonaise
- 1/3 cup pickle relish
- 3 tbs ketchup
- 1 tsp white wine vinegar
- 1 tbs honey
Instructions
Potatoes:
- Preheat oven to 400℉. Line a large rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Place the cubed potatoes on your baking sheet and drizzle with olive oil and seasonings. Toss with your hands to coat all of the potatoes. Spread them out evenly on the sheet and roast for 40-45 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Ground Meat:
- While the potatoes are cooking: Heat a large skillet over medium-high and add in the oil. Once its HOT, add ground meat in LARGE PIECES. The goal is to sear the meat and get and nice brown crust on each chunk of ground beef. Flip the pieces/chunks over and proceed to break up the meat with a wooden spoon. Add in the seasonings and mix. Once the meat is no longer pink add in the broth and cover with a lid. Lower the heat to a simmer and let the meat cook for 5 minutes.
Assembly:
- To each bowl, first add 1/4 of the roasted potatoes, ground beef, cheese, lettuce, tomatoes, mashed avocados, pickles, toasted sesame seeds and big mac sauce.
Notes
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge.
So good!! Was a little skeptical- but this was delicious! I pretty much made as stated in the recipe, just added a little diced onion to the ground beef. I also used Chosen Mayo and I don’t think you could taste the difference. My Husband and college aged son both agreed they’d like this again!
Very delicious, filling, and satisfying! Would prefer this over a fries n burger combo any day!
Same here Elsa! This is so much better for you and better tasting!
My 19 year old son said to put this meal in the rotation of meals. He only ate about half the ingredients, but loved the special sauce. I couldn’t convince him to have a bite of mine that had everything because of the avocado. He just doesn’t get how I can like the green stuff. I thought all of it together was awesome! Surprised it didn’t have any onions sauted with the ground beef. I guess with the onion salt it took care of that. For me and my crew we didn’t need to make 2 lbs of ground beef. 1 lb would be enough. The special sauce gets a high five from us. Thanks so much for the recipe!!
Hi Susan, I’m so glad the recipe was a winner with your son! Thank you for coming back and sharing your feedback!