Big Mac Salad Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Big Mac Salad is a delicious twist on a classic favorite, offering all the flavors you know and love without the heaviness of a traditional burger. The hearty combination of ground beef, cheese, and pickles is perfectly balanced with the fresh, crisp lettuce, making each bite irresistible. Plus, it’s quick and easy to prepare, taking only 20 minutes from start to finish. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner, a potluck, or just a simple meal, this salad is sure to become a new favorite!

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 6 cups chopped iceberg lettuce

• 1½ pounds very lean ground beef, browned and drained

• 1½ cups shredded Colby jack cheese

• 1 cup diced Roma tomatoes

• 1 cup sliced red onion

• ½ cup diced dill pickles

• Thousand Island dressing

Directions

1. Add the chopped lettuce to an extra-large serving bowl.

2. Sprinkle the cooked ground beef over the lettuce.

3. Sprinkle the shredded cheese, diced tomatoes, sliced onion, and diced dill pickles over the ground beef.

4. Toss to combine all the ingredients together.

5. Drizzle as much or as little Thousand Island dressing over the top as desired. Serve immediately.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 8

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Cook Time: 10 minutes

• Total Time: 20 minutes

Variations

• Protein Options: You can substitute the ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based protein for a lighter or vegetarian option.

• Dressing Alternatives: While Thousand Island dressing is classic, you can try other options like ranch, French dressing, or a homemade creamy dressing to mix things up.

• Cheese Variations: If you prefer, swap out Colby jack cheese for cheddar, mozzarella, or any cheese of your choice.

• Additions: Consider adding  avocado, or even sautéed mushrooms for extra flavor and texture.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: This salad is best served fresh but can be stored in the fridge for 1-2 days. If storing leftovers, keep the dressing separate to avoid wilting the lettuce.

• Reheating: If you have leftover ground beef, it can be reheated in the microwave or on the stovetop. However, it’s best to eat the salad cold, so reassemble the salad and add fresh dressing when serving.

FAQs

1. Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare all the ingredients ahead of time and store them separately in the fridge. Assemble the salad just before serving for the freshest taste.

2. What other types of lettuce can I use?

While iceberg lettuce is preferred for its crunchiness, you can use romaine, spinach, or mixed greens as alternatives.

3. Can I make this salad keto-friendly?

Yes, this salad is already low-carb. Just make sure to use a sugar-free dressing to keep it within keto guidelines.

4. How can I make this salad spicier?

Add some sliced jalapeños or a few dashes of hot sauce to give the salad an extra kick.

5. Can I use ground beef that’s not lean?

For a healthier option, it’s best to use very lean ground beef or drain any excess fat from regular ground beef before using it in the salad.

6. Can I make the dressing from scratch?

Yes, you can easily make Thousand Island dressing at home using mayonnaise, ketchup, relish, and a few spices.

7. Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free since it doesn’t contain any wheat-based ingredients.

8. How many servings does this recipe make?

This recipe serves about 8 people, depending on portion sizes.

9. Can I make a smaller batch of this salad?

Certainly! You can adjust the ingredient quantities to fit your desired number of servings.

10. What should I serve with this salad?

This salad pairs well with a light side, such as roasted vegetables, a baked potato, or a simple fruit salad.

Conclusion

This Big Mac Salad brings together the flavors of a classic Big Mac in a fresh, satisfying way. It’s an easy-to-make, customizable dish that’s perfect for meal prep or a weeknight dinner. Whether you’re craving something quick or trying to avoid the carbs from a traditional burger, this salad is a great option for anyone looking to enjoy the deliciousness of a Big Mac in a healthier, more vibrant form.