why make this recipe
Homemade Big Mac Salad is a fun and tasty way to enjoy the flavors of a classic Big Mac without the extra carbs of a bun. It’s perfect for a quick dinner, a light lunch, or even a potluck. This salad is not only delicious but also packed with veggies, making it a healthier choice. Plus, you can whip it up in just a few minutes!
how to make Homemade Big Mac Salad
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef, cooked and drained
- 4 cups chopped iceberg lettuce
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup diced pickles
- 1/2 cup diced onions
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup Big Mac sauce
- Optional: sesame seeds for garnish
Big Mac Sauce ingredients:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp sweet pickle relish
- 1 tbsp yellow mustard
- 1 tsp white vinegar
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- Salt & pepper to taste
Directions:
- Make the sauce: In a bowl, mix all the Big Mac sauce ingredients until smooth.
- Cook beef: In a skillet, brown the ground beef and then drain any excess fat.
- Assemble salad: In a large bowl, combine the lettuce, cooked beef, cheese, pickles, onions, and tomatoes.
- Dress: Drizzle the Big Mac sauce over the salad and toss gently to combine.
- Serve: If you like, garnish with sesame seeds. Serve immediately.
how to serve Homemade Big Mac Salad
Serve this salad in large bowls or on plates. It can be a main dish on its own or a side for a big meal. You can also add extra toppings like croutons or avocado for more flavor and texture.
how to store Homemade Big Mac Salad
To store leftovers, keep the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’s best to store the dressing separately and add it just before serving to keep the lettuce crisp. Eat the leftovers within 2-3 days for the best taste.
tips to make Homemade Big Mac Salad
- Make the sauce ahead of time for added flavor.
- Use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
- Add your favorite veggies like bell peppers or cucumbers for extra crunch.
- Adjust the spice in the Big Mac sauce by adding a pinch of cayenne or hot sauce if you like some heat.
variation
You can also make this salad as a vegetarian dish by replacing the ground beef with lentils or black beans. For a keto-friendly version, skip the tomatoes and focus on leafy greens.
FAQs
Can I prepare the Big Mac Salad in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the ingredients in advance but mix the salad only when you’re ready to serve to keep the lettuce fresh.
What can I use instead of iceberg lettuce?
If you prefer, you can use romaine or mixed greens instead of iceberg lettuce.
Is Big Mac sauce gluten-free?
Yes, the ingredients in the Big Mac sauce are generally gluten-free, but always check labels to ensure there are no hidden gluten sources.
Big Mac Salad
Ingredients
For the salad
- 1 lb ground beef, cooked and drained Use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
- 4 cups chopped iceberg lettuce Can substitute with romaine or mixed greens.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup diced pickles
- 1/2 cup diced onions
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved Skip for a keto-friendly version.
- 1/2 cup Big Mac sauce Make the sauce ahead of time for added flavor.
- to taste sesame seeds for garnish Optional
For the Big Mac Sauce
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp sweet pickle relish
- 1 tbsp yellow mustard
- 1 tsp white vinegar
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- to taste salt & pepper
Instructions
Make the Sauce
- In a bowl, mix all the Big Mac sauce ingredients until smooth.
Cook Beef
- In a skillet, brown the ground beef and then drain any excess fat.
Assemble Salad
- In a large bowl, combine the lettuce, cooked beef, cheese, pickles, onions, and tomatoes.
Dress Salad
- Drizzle the Big Mac sauce over the salad and toss gently to combine.
Serve
- Garnish with sesame seeds if desired and serve immediately.