The easiest, 25-minute dinner recipe and meal prep go-to!
Oh, Jimmy Buffet. How we miss you! This one's for you.
Who doesn't love a good cheeseburger (excluding those with dietary restrictions)? Especially when you hear a classic such as "Cheeseburger in Paradise" come on the radio. (Who hasn't been playing that in honor of the legendary Mr. Buffet?) I certainly have - that includes this past Monday, September 18th, for National Cheeseburger Day. Fitting that an American classic has a song AND a holiday in it's honor. However, some days I really want to fulfill my burger craving, but need a lightened version. My "Big Mac" bowl recipe does just that: gives me the burger I'm dreaming of, but lets me "have it my way." (Yes, another burger pun.)
The Big Mac, a legendary burger from the iconic fast-food chain McDonald's, has been satisfying cravings and filling stomachs for decades. Its signature combination of two beef patties, special sauce, lettuce, cheese, pickles, and onions, all sandwiched between a sesame seed bun, is a taste that many of us associate with fond memories of fast food indulgence. However, for those looking to enjoy the nostalgic flavors of a Big Mac without the guilt, there's a healthier alternative - the Big Mac Bowl.
If you're watching your calorie intake or trying to make more mindful choices when it comes to food, the Big Mac Bowl is a game-changer. It takes all the delicious components of a Big Mac and transforms them into a satisfying salad that's not only lower in calories but also high in nutrition. For those who crave the classic taste of a Big Mac but want to keep things on the healthier side, I've got the perfect solution for you - the Big Mac bowl. This delicious creation captures all the iconic flavors of a Big Mac but in a low-carb, Keto-friendly package. Say goodbye to the bun and hello to a salad that's both satisfying and guilt-free. Due to the combination of simple ingredients, the quick cooking time, the ability to make ahead and store, the taste, and the side of nostalgia, I hope you will love my recipe, too. Let's dive into the recipe!
Before we get started, here's a quick look at what you'll need to whip up this scrumptious Big Mac Bowl:
Ingredients:
For the "Big Mac" Sauce:
1/2 cup of mayo
2 tablespoons of yellow mustard
1 teaspoon of white vinegar
1 teaspoon of paprika
1 teaspoon of onion powder
1 teaspoon of garlic powder
1/4 cup of chopped dill pickles
For a lighter "Big Mac" Sauce:
Use the rest of the previously listed ingredients, eliminate the regular mayo, and swap in one of the following:
Greek yogurt: For creaminess and tanginess.
Light mayonnaise: To give the sauce its characteristic texture.
Please note that it must be full-fat mayo for it to be a true Keto recipe.
For the Meat Mixture:
1 pound of ground hamburger (Swaps: ground turkey, or a plant-based alternative like tofu crumbles, if you prefer a meatless option.)
1/2 cup of chopped white onion (Can also use red onion, depending on your preference.)
1 teaspoon of garlic powder
1 teaspoon of salt
1/2 teaspoon of pepper
1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce
For the Salad:
Shredded lettuce (Fresh, crisp iceberg lettuce is the classic choice for a Big Mac Salad, but you can also use a mix of romaine and iceberg lettuce for added flavor and nutrition.)
Dill pickles
Shredded cheddar cheese (You can opt for reduced-fat cheddar or a dairy-free alternative if you prefer.)
Optional Topping:
Sesame Seeds: For that classic Big Mac bun flavor, you'll need sesame seeds to sprinkle on top of your salad.
Directions:
1. Prepare the "Big Mac" Sauce:
In a bowl, combine the mayo, yellow mustard, white vinegar, paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, and chopped dill pickles. Mix everything together until well combined. Set this delicious sauce aside for later.
2. Cook the Meat Mixture:
In a skillet, brown the ground hamburger over medium-high heat. As it cooks, add in the chopped onions, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and Worcestershire sauce. Allow everything to simmer together, creating a flavorful meat mixture. Once it's ready, remove it from heat, drain any excess grease, and let it cool for a moment.
3. Build Your Salad:
Start by adding a generous portion of shredded lettuce to your salad bowl. This serves as the perfect base for your Big Mac-inspired creation.
Now, cover the lettuce with the delectable meat mixture you prepared earlier. This is where the magic begins, as the seasoned ground hamburger takes center stage.
Adorn your salad with shredded cheddar cheese, adding a creamy and savory element that'll have your taste buds dancing.
For that signature, Big Mac zing, top it all off with dill pickles.
Finally, drizzle your "Big Mac" sauce over the salad, ensuring every bite is bursting with flavor.
Optional: top with a sprinkle of Sesame Seeds.
4. Enjoy Your Low-Carb Delight:
Your Big Mac Bowl is ready to be enjoyed! With all the classic flavors you love in a Big Mac but without the carbs from the bun, this salad is a true winner. It's a delicious, low-carb, and keto-friendly option that will leave you satisfied and craving more.
The Big Mac Bowl is a fantastic way to indulge in the flavors of a beloved fast-food classic while keeping your carb count in check. Whether you're following a low-carb, keto, or Weight Watchers diet, this recipe offers a tasty alternative that's perfect for lunch or dinner. So, why not give it a try and savor the flavor of a Big Mac in a healthier way? Your taste buds and waistline will thank you. Best of all, it is sure to be a family favorite, as no one would assume it was a healthier alternative when the biggest draw is its taste.
Bon Appetit!
Until we talk again -
Thank you for being here with me Among the Caffeine & Chaos.
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