The Big Mac Salad is a genius twist on the classic McDonald’s Big Mac—without the bun but packed with all the flavors you love. This deconstructed burger bowl blends seasoned ground beef, crunchy lettuce, zesty pickles, shredded cheese, and a creamy, tangy “special sauce” to create a crave-worthy, low-carb meal.
Perfect for those following keto, paleo, or gluten-free diets, the Big Mac Salad is more than a gimmick—it’s a satisfying and nutritious option that doesn’t compromise on taste or nostalgia. Whether you’re meal-prepping for the week or whipping up a quick dinner, this salad is a winner.
Ingredients
For the Salad:
-
1 lb ground beef (85/15 or 90/10)
-
1 tsp onion powder
-
1 tsp garlic powder
-
Salt and black pepper to taste
-
1 head romaine lettuce (chopped)
-
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
-
½ cup dill pickles (chopped)
-
¼ cup red onion (finely diced)
-
1 medium tomato (optional, diced)
For the Big Mac Dressing:
-
½ cup mayonnaise
-
2 tbsp ketchup
-
1 tbsp yellow mustard
-
2 tsp white vinegar
-
2 tsp pickle relish
-
½ tsp paprika
-
½ tsp onion powder
-
½ tsp garlic powder
Optional Substitutions:
-
Ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a leaner option
-
Vegan mayo and plant-based meat for a vegan-friendly version
-
Lactose-free cheese or omit cheese entirely for dairy-sensitive diets
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
1. Cook the Ground Beef
-
In a skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef.
-
Season with onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
-
Cook for 7–10 minutes or until fully browned. Drain excess grease and set aside.
2. Prepare the Dressing
-
In a small bowl, mix together mayonnaise, ketchup, mustard, vinegar, relish, and spices.
-
Whisk until smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning as desired.
-
Refrigerate while assembling the salad to allow flavors to meld.
3. Assemble the Salad
-
In a large salad bowl, layer chopped romaine, cheese, pickles, red onion, and tomato.
-
Top with the cooked beef and drizzle with Big Mac dressing.
-
Toss gently or serve layered for a more dramatic presentation.
Pro Tips and Cooking Techniques
-
Use freshly chopped lettuce for the best crunch—avoid pre-shredded blends.
-
Don’t overcook the beef; it should be juicy, not dry.
-
Double the dressing if you like your salad saucy—it keeps well in the fridge for 5 days.
-
A cast-iron skillet adds a nice sear to the beef, intensifying the flavor.
-
For an extra kick, add a dash of hot sauce or cayenne pepper to the dressing.
Variations and Customizations
-
Vegetarian: Use lentil taco meat, tofu crumbles, or a plant-based ground meat substitute.
-
Gluten-Free: Ensure your condiments are certified gluten-free.
-
Low-Carb: This salad is inherently keto-friendly but skip tomatoes if you’re strict on carbs.
-
Bacon Big Mac Salad: Add crumbled cooked bacon for a smoky twist.
-
Southwest Style: Add avocado, grilled corn (if not low-carb), and cilantro for a Tex-Mex spin.
Serving Suggestions
-
Serve in a wide bowl or plate to showcase the colorful layers.
-
Garnish with sesame seeds to mimic the classic Big Mac bun flavor.
-
Pair with iced tea, sparkling water, or a low-carb beer.
-
Serve with a side of sweet potato fries or a keto-friendly bun on the side for a heartier meal.
Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving – serves 4)
-
Calories: 450
-
Protein: 28g
-
Carbohydrates: 8g
-
Fat: 35g
-
Fiber: 2g
-
Net Carbs: 6g
Nutritional values may vary based on ingredients and portions.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I make Big Mac Salad ahead of time?
Yes! Store the beef, veggies, and dressing separately in the fridge. Combine just before serving for best texture.
Q: How long does the dressing last?
The homemade dressing keeps for up to 5 days in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Q: Can I serve it warm or cold?
It’s best served with warm beef over cool, crisp lettuce, but the entire salad can also be served cold.
Q: What’s the best lettuce for this salad?
Romaine or iceberg are ideal due to their crisp texture.
Q: Can I freeze the cooked beef?
Yes, freeze cooked and seasoned beef for up to 2 months. Thaw and reheat before using.
Closing Thoughts
The Big Mac Salad is proof that comfort food can be both healthy and satisfying. With its juicy beef, tangy pickles, creamy dressing, and crisp lettuce, every bite is a nostalgic treat—without the carb crash.
Give it a try and don’t forget to customize it to your taste. Share your version with friends or on social media, and let us know how it turned out in the comments!
