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Big Mac Salad Recipe

4.4 from 140 reviews

A delicious and easy-to-make Big Mac Salad that captures the iconic flavors of the classic Big Mac burger without the bun. Featuring seasoned ground beef, crisp iceberg lettuce, shredded cheddar cheese, pickles, onions, toasted sesame seeds, and a tangy special sauce, this salad is perfect for a low-carb lunch or dinner option.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 1 lb ground beef (85/15)
  • 1 large head iceberg lettuce, chopped
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup chopped dill pickles
  • 1/4 cup finely diced white onion
  • 2 tablespoons sesame seeds, toasted

Special Sauce

  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 2 tablespoons sugar-free ketchup
  • 2 tablespoons dill pickle relish
  • 1 teaspoon yellow mustard
  • 1 teaspoon white wine vinegar
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon paprika

Instructions

  1. Cook the ground beef: Heat a skillet over medium heat and add the ground beef. Cook it for 6-8 minutes until it is browned and fully cooked, breaking it apart as it cooks. Once done, drain excess fat and allow it to cool slightly.
  2. Prepare the special sauce: In a bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sugar-free ketchup, dill pickle relish, yellow mustard, white wine vinegar, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika until smooth and well combined.
  3. Prep the vegetables: Chop the iceberg lettuce into bite-sized pieces, finely dice the white onion, and chop the dill pickles into small pieces to evenly distribute flavor throughout the salad.
  4. Assemble the salad: In a large salad bowl or serving dish, layer the chopped lettuce first, followed by the cooked ground beef, shredded cheddar cheese, diced onions, and chopped pickles. Drizzle the special sauce evenly over the top, then sprinkle toasted sesame seeds for that signature Big Mac touch.
  5. Serve or store: Serve the salad immediately for the freshest taste. Alternatively, store the salad components separately in airtight containers for meal prep and combine when ready to eat.

Notes

  • For a lower-fat option, use leaner ground beef or ground turkey instead of 85/15 beef.
  • The special sauce can be made in advance and refrigerated for up to 3 days.
  • Toast sesame seeds in a dry pan over medium heat for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until golden and fragrant.
  • To make this salad keto-friendly, omit the sugar-free ketchup or ensure it contains very low sugar.
  • Store leftovers in separate containers to preserve freshness and prevent sogginess.

Keywords: Big Mac Salad, low carb salad, healthy Big Mac, ground beef salad, keto salad, quick dinner recipe, easy salad