INTRODUCTION
Little Big Mac Bites are a delightful twist on a classic favorite. These bite-sized snacks pack all the flavors of a Big Mac but come in a healthier, smaller package. Not only are they fun to eat, but they can also fit into a balanced meal plan. Perfect for parties, game day, or a quick weekday dinner, these little bites are easy to prepare and are great for meal prep.
WHY YOU WILL LOVE THIS RECIPE
You will love these Little Big Mac Bites because they are a lighter option that still satisfies your cravings for comfort food. They are packed with protein from the ground sirloin and cheese, making them a great high protein meal. Plus, since they’re baked instead of fried, they are a healthier version compared to traditional burgers. These bites are not only tasty but also fantastic for meal prep. Make a batch ahead of time and enjoy them throughout the week as a quick meal or snack without derailing your health goals.
HOW TO MAKE Little Big Mac Bites
Get ready to indulge in a dish that is simple yet delicious. The following steps will guide you on how to make Little Big Mac Bites that everyone will love!
EQUIPMENT NEEDED
- Large, nonstick skillet
- 24-cup mini muffin pan
- Mixing bowl
- Wooden spoon
- Cooking spray
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 pound ground sirloin
- 3/4 teaspoon kosher salt, divided
- 3/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, divided
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
- 1 tablespoon sweet relish
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 2 teaspoons vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 3 cups shredded Cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup minced white onion
- 24 dill pickle slices
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds, or to taste
STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS:
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Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C). Lightly grease a 24-cup mini muffin pan with cooking spray.
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Heat a large, nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Add ground sirloin and cook, crumbling with a wooden spoon and stirring often until evenly browned, about 5 minutes.
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Sprinkle with 1/2 teaspoon salt and pepper, garlic powder, and Worcestershire sauce. Cook for 1 more minute, then remove from heat and set aside.
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In a bowl, stir together mayonnaise, mustard, relish, onion powder, paprika, vinegar, sugar, and the remaining salt and pepper until combined. Refrigerate the dipping sauce until ready to serve.
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Place about 1 tablespoon of cheese in the bottom of each muffin cup, working it against the sides if possible.
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Divide the meat mixture evenly among the muffin cups and top with minced onion.
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Add a slice of pickle to each cup and top with the remaining cheese. Sprinkle with sesame seeds.
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Bake in the preheated oven until the cheese begins to brown around the edges, about 15 to 20 minutes.
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Allow to set up in the pan for 3 to 5 minutes before removing to a paper towel-lined plate. Top with more sesame seeds if desired and serve with the Big Mac dipping sauce.
HOW TO SERVE Little Big Mac Bites
When serving Little Big Mac Bites, it’s best to keep portion control in mind. Each muffin cup can be a satisfying snack or a mini meal on its own. You can serve them with a side of fresh veggies or a light salad for a balanced plate. Consider using a whole grain or gluten-free option for the dipping sauce to enhance the health benefits. A side of carrots, celery sticks, or a leafy green salad will complement these bites well while keeping everything heart-healthy.
STORAGE & FREEZING: Little Big Mac Bites
Leftover Little Big Mac Bites can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. If you’d like to freeze them, allow them to cool completely before placing them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply reheat in the oven or microwave for a quick and satisfying meal.
SERVING SUGGESTIONS
These bites pair wonderfully with a light salad or some crispy vegetable sticks. A mixed greens salad with a vinaigrette dressing can add fiber and nutrients to your meal. You can also serve a fresh fruit platter for a sweet, lighter option to balance out the savory bites.
VARIATIONS
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Healthier Version: Use lean turkey or chicken instead of ground sirloin for a lower-fat option. You can also swap the regular mayonnaise for a low-fat or Greek yogurt version to reduce calories and fat.
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High-Protein or Low-Carb Version: For a low-carb twist, you can use ground turkey and skip the bun entirely. To add more protein, consider mixing in additional veggies such as chopped spinach or mushrooms.
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Air Fryer or Oven-Baked Version: If you prefer air-frying, preheat your air fryer to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C). Place the filled muffin cups in the air fryer basket and cook for 10-12 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
FAQs
1. How can I ensure these bites remain juicy?
Using ground sirloin and not overcooking them helps retain moisture. Additionally, letting the bites rest for a few minutes after baking can maintain their juiciness.
2. Can I make these bites gluten-free?
Yes! Simply use gluten-free breadcrumbs and ensure that all your condiments (like Worcestershire sauce and relish) are gluten-free as well.
3. How can I store any leftovers?
Store the bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in a microwave or oven before serving.
4. Are these bites suitable for a balanced meal?
Yes! They are high in protein and can be paired with vegetables to create a well-rounded, hearty meal that fits within healthy eating guidelines.
MAKE-AHEAD TIPS FOR Little Big Mac Bites
These Little Big Mac Bites are perfect for make-ahead meals! You can prepare the whole recipe and refrigerate the prepared muffin cups until you’re ready to bake them. This allows for quick dinners, especially during busy weekdays. You can make a double batch to enjoy throughout the week or freeze a portion for future light meals. Ready in just a few minutes once you pop them into the oven or air fryer, these bites save you time while keeping your meal plan on track.
By making these Little Big Mac Bites a part of your regular meal rotation, you will enjoy delicious flavors, uphold your health goals, and satisfy your hunger without guilt. Enjoy this balanced approach to enjoying a classic taste in a fun, healthy way!
Little Big Mac Bites
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C). Lightly grease a 24-cup mini muffin pan with cooking spray.
- Heat a large, nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Add ground sirloin and cook, crumbling with a wooden spoon and stirring often until evenly browned, about 5 minutes.
- Sprinkle with 1/2 teaspoon salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Worcestershire sauce. Cook for 1 more minute, then remove from heat and set aside.
- In a bowl, stir together mayonnaise, mustard, relish, onion powder, paprika, vinegar, sugar, and the remaining salt and pepper until combined. Refrigerate the dipping sauce until ready to serve.
- Place about 1 tablespoon of cheese in the bottom of each muffin cup, working it against the sides if possible.
- Divide the meat mixture evenly among the muffin cups and top with minced onion.
- Add a slice of pickle to each cup and top with the remaining cheese. Sprinkle with sesame seeds.
- Bake in the preheated oven until the cheese begins to brown around the edges, about 15 to 20 minutes.
- Allow to set up in the pan for 3 to 5 minutes before removing to a paper towel-lined plate. Top with more sesame seeds if desired and serve with the Big Mac dipping sauce.