Name: Big Mac Bowls
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 tbsp olive oil; 1 large onion, finely diced; 500 g ground beef (mince beef); 1 tsp garlic granules; 1 tbsp yellow mustard; 1 iceberg lettuce, shredded; 200 g cherry tomatoes, halved; 8 gherkins (pickles), sliced; 100 g cheddar cheese, grated; 1 tbsp sesame seeds; 1 portion Big Mac sauce (homemade or store-bought)

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This Big Mac Bowls recipe is a fun and healthier twist on a fast-food classic. In just 15 minutes, I can enjoy all the iconic flavors of a Big Mac—savory beef, tangy pickles, crisp lettuce, and melty cheese—served as a fresh and satisfying salad bowl. It’s perfect for a quick dinner or a meal prep lunch that feels indulgent while still being balanced.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it brings all the nostalgia of a Big Mac without the heavy feeling of fast food. It’s ready in no time, making it ideal for busy weeknights. I can also prep the components ahead of time and build bowls whenever I need a quick meal. It’s versatile, filling, and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser at the dinner table. Big Mac Bowls

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 tbsp olive oil
1 large onion, finely diced
500 g mince beef (ground beef)
1 tsp garlic granules
1 tbsp yellow mustard
1 iceberg lettuce, shredded
200 g cherry tomatoes, halved
8 gherkins (pickles), sliced
100 g cheddar cheese, grated
1 tbsp sesame seeds
1 portion of Big Mac sauce (homemade or store-bought)

Directions

I heat the oil in a frying pan over medium-high heat and fry most of the diced onion for a few minutes until softened, saving a small amount for garnish.
I add the mince beef and garlic granules, cooking for about 5 minutes until the beef is browned.
I stir in the yellow mustard, season with salt and pepper, then set it aside to cool slightly.
I assemble the lettuce, cherry tomatoes, pickles, and cheese in bowls.
I top the bowls with the cooked beef, drizzle with Big Mac sauce, sprinkle over the reserved onion, and finish with sesame seeds.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 4 servings.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 5 minutes
Total time: 15 minutes

Variations

I like to switch things up by using ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter version. Sometimes I swap cheddar for American cheese slices for that true Big Mac flavor. If I want more crunch, I add shredded carrots or cucumbers. For a low-carb option, I skip the tomatoes and cheese and focus on extra veggies.

Storage/Reheating

I keep the components separate if I’m meal-prepping. The cooked beef can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheated in a skillet or microwave. The veggies stay crisp if stored separately, and I only add the sauce just before serving to keep everything fresh. Big Mac Bowls

FAQs

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, I prepare the beef and chop the veggies in advance, then assemble the bowls just before eating.

What can I use instead of Big Mac sauce?

If I don’t have the sauce ready, I mix mayonnaise, ketchup, mustard, and a bit of pickle juice for a quick alternative.

Is this recipe low-carb?

Yes, it’s naturally lower in carbs since it skips the burger bun, but the sauce and cheese do add some carbs.

Can I freeze the cooked beef?

Absolutely, I freeze the cooked and cooled beef in a sealed container for up to 3 months. When I need it, I thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat.

What can I serve with Big Mac Bowls?

I usually enjoy it on its own, but homemade fries, sweet potato wedges, or even a side of garlic bread make it extra filling.

Conclusion

This Big Mac Bowls recipe is a fast, fun, and healthier way to enjoy the flavors of a classic burger. I love how quick it comes together, how satisfying it is, and how easy it is to customize. Whether for a busy weeknight dinner or as part of my meal prep, it always delivers on taste and comfort.