Description
The original Big Mac sandwich was introduced by McDonald’s franchisee Jim Delligatti in the nineteen sixties, quickly becoming one of the most recognizable fast-food items globally. Its signature taste is almost entirely due to the combination of the two beef patties, the melted cheese, and the secretive “Special Sauce.”
Ingredients
For the Bowl:
1 lb (450g) ground beef (80/20 works best)
Salt and pepper, to taste
1/2 tsp garlic powder (optional)
1/2 tsp onion powder (optional)
1 cup shredded lettuce
1/2 cup diced pickles
1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
For the “Special Sauce”:
1/4 cup mayonnaise
1 tbsp ketchup
1 tsp yellow mustard
1 tsp finely diced onion (or onion powder)
1 tsp sweet pickle relish
1/4 tsp garlic powder
1/4 tsp paprika
Instructions
Cook the Beef:
Heat a skillet over medium-high heat.
Add ground beef, season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
Cook until browned, breaking it into small crumbles, about 5–7 minutes. Drain excess fat if needed.
Make the Special Sauce:
In a small bowl, mix mayonnaise, ketchup, mustard, onion, relish, garlic powder, and paprika. Taste and adjust seasoning.
Assemble the Bowl:
In serving bowls, layer shredded lettuce, cooked ground beef, diced pickles, shredded cheese.
Drizzle generously with the special sauce.
Optional Toppings:
Sliced tomato, diced onions, or a fried egg for extra richness.
Notes
This deconstructed Big Mac is a lighter, low-carb twist on the classic burger. It’s perfect for meal prep—just keep the dressing separate until ready to serve. For variety, swap in ground turkey or chicken, add extra pickles for crunch, or top with shredded cheese for extra indulgence. It’s a fun way to enjoy all the flavors without the bun!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop + Assembly
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (~350 g)
- Calories: ~420 kcal
Keywords: keto-friendly cheeseburger salad, low-carb special sauce, deconstructed Big Mac recipe, easy weeknight meal, keto Big Mac bowl, cheeseburger salad