High-Protein Big Mac Bowl
This High-Protein Big Mac Bowl delivers all the classic Big Mac flavors in a healthier, protein-packed meal. Featuring lean ground beef, crisp lettuce, fresh vegetables, cheese, and a creamy homemade Big Mac-style sauce, it’s perfect for meal prep or a satisfying low-carb dinner.
Ingredients
For the Bowl
- 1 lb (450 g) lean ground beef (93% lean)
- 1 tsp olive oil (optional)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 6 cups chopped romaine lettuce
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup dill pickle slices, chopped
- ½ cup diced red onion
- 1 cup shredded reduced-fat cheddar cheese
High-Protein Big Mac Sauce
- ¾ cup plain nonfat Greek yogurt
- 2 tbsp light mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp sugar-free ketchup
- 1 tbsp yellow mustard
- 2 tbsp finely chopped dill pickles or pickle relish
- 1 tsp pickle juice
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp paprika
Optional Toppings
- Sesame seeds
- Sliced jalapeños
- Diced tomatoes
- Avocado
- Chopped green onions
Instructions
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the ground beef and season with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Cook for 6–8 minutes, breaking the meat apart, until browned and fully cooked. Drain any excess fat if needed.
- While the beef cooks, whisk together all of the sauce ingredients until smooth. Refrigerate until ready to use.
- Divide the chopped romaine among four serving bowls.
- Top each bowl with the cooked beef, tomatoes, pickles, red onion, and shredded cheddar cheese.
- Drizzle generously with the Big Mac sauce.
- Sprinkle with sesame seeds and any additional toppings, then serve immediately.
Tips
- Use 93–96% lean ground beef for the highest protein and lower fat.
- Swap ground turkey or chicken for an even leaner option.
- Make the sauce a day ahead to let the flavors develop.
- For extra crunch, add shredded cabbage.
Serving Suggestions
- Roasted broccoli
- Air Fryer French Fries
- Sweet potato fries
- Dill pickle spears
- Sparkling water or iced tea
Storage
- Refrigerator: Store the cooked beef, vegetables, and sauce separately in airtight containers for up to 4 days.
- Meal Prep: Assemble the bowls without the sauce and add the dressing just before serving.
- Freezer: Freeze only the cooked beef for up to 3 months.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Servings: 4
Nutrition (Approximate Per Serving)
- Calories: 420
- Protein: 37 g
- Carbohydrates: 12 g
- Fat: 24 g
- Fiber: 3 g