Big Mac Salad – All the Classic Burger Flavors in a Fresh, Low-Carb Bowl

 

 

If you love the famous Big Mac burger but want a lighter, fresher, and healthier alternative, this Big Mac Salad is the perfect recipe for you. It delivers all the iconic flavors you enjoy — juicy seasoned ground beef, crisp lettuce, melted cheese, tangy pickles, and creamy special sauce — but without the heavy bun. This dish is incredibly satisfying while still feeling fresh and balanced, making it a fantastic choice for lunch, dinner, or meal prep.

One of the best things about this salad is how easy and quick it is to prepare. It uses simple, everyday ingredients that come together to create a delicious combination of textures and flavors. The warm, savory beef pairs beautifully with the cool crunch of fresh vegetables, while the creamy dressing ties everything together into a rich and flavorful meal.

This recipe is also highly customizable. You can adjust ingredients based on your preferences, make it low-carb or keto-friendly, or even add extra toppings for more flavor. Whether you're trying to eat healthier, looking for a quick dinner idea, or simply craving burger flavors in a fresh new way, this Big Mac Salad is guaranteed to become a favorite.

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📝 Ingredients

🥩 Beef Layer

• 1 ½ lbs (680g) lean ground beef
• Salt and black pepper (to taste)
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
• ½ teaspoon onion powder (optional)

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🥗 Salad Base

• 6 cups iceberg lettuce (chopped)
• 1 ½ cups Colby Jack or cheddar cheese (shredded)
• 1 cup Roma tomatoes (diced)
• 1 cup red onion (thinly sliced)
• ½ cup dill pickles (diced or sliced)

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🥄 Special Dressing

• ½ cup Thousand Island dressing
  (Optional homemade version below)

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👨‍🍳 Instructions

1️⃣ Cook the Beef

• Heat a large skillet over medium heat.
• Add ground beef and cook until browned and fully cooked.
• Season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
• Drain excess fat and set aside to cool slightly.

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2️⃣ Prepare the Salad Base

• In a large bowl, add chopped lettuce.
• Sprinkle shredded cheese over the lettuce.
• Add diced tomatoes, sliced onions, and pickles.

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3️⃣ Assemble the Salad

• Add warm cooked beef over the salad mixture.
• Drizzle Thousand Island dressing evenly over the top.

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4️⃣ Toss and Serve

• Toss gently or serve layered for presentation.
• Serve immediately while the beef is still warm.

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🥄 Optional Homemade Big Mac Style Dressing

Mix together:

• ½ cup mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons ketchup
• 1 tablespoon mustard
• 2 tablespoons sweet pickle relish
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon vinegar

Mix well and chill for 15 minutes before serving.

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💡 Tips for the Best Big Mac Salad

✔ Use freshly shredded cheese for better melting and flavor.
✔ Serve beef slightly warm for the best texture contrast.
✔ Add sesame seeds for a real burger-style flavor.
✔ Store ingredients separately if meal prepping.

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🍽️ Serving Suggestions

This salad is delicious on its own but can also be served with:

• Toasted burger buns on the side
• Garlic bread
• Roasted potatoes or fries
• Avocado slices for extra creaminess

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