Big Mac Salad Recipe
Introduction
This Big Mac Salad captures all the flavors of the classic burger in a fresh, easy-to-make salad form. It’s a satisfying, low-carb alternative that’s perfect for lunch or dinner when you want something tasty and quick.
Ingredients
- 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
Instructions
- Step 1: Add the chopped iceberg lettuce to an extra-large serving bowl.
- Step 2: Sprinkle the cooked ground beef evenly over the lettuce.
- Step 3: Layer the shredded Colby jack cheese, diced Roma tomatoes, sliced red onion, and diced dill pickles over the beef. Toss gently to combine all ingredients.
- Step 4: Drizzle Thousand Island dressing over the salad to taste. Serve immediately for the best freshness and flavor.
Tips & Variations
- Use low-fat cheese or turkey ground meat for a lighter version.
- Add cooked bacon bits for extra crunch and smoky flavor.
- Try substituting the Thousand Island dressing with a homemade special sauce for a fresher taste.
Storage
Store any leftover salad components separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keep the dressing apart until ready to serve to prevent sogginess. Reassemble just before eating and enjoy cold or at room temperature.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I prepare the Big Mac Salad ahead of time?
Yes, but keep the lettuce, toppings, cooked beef, and dressing stored separately to maintain freshness. Combine and dress just before serving.
What can I use if I don’t have Thousand Island dressing?
You can substitute with a mix of mayonnaise, ketchup, a splash of vinegar, and a pinch of sugar to mimic the classic Thousand Island flavor.
PrintBig Mac Salad Recipe
A delicious and easy-to-make Big Mac Salad that captures all the classic flavors of a Big Mac burger in a fresh, low-carb salad form. Packed with lean ground beef, crisp iceberg lettuce, tangy pickles, and creamy Thousand Island dressing, this salad is perfect for a quick lunch or a satisfying dinner.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Salad
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Salad Ingredients
- 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
Dressing
- Thousand Island dressing, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Lettuce: Chop 6 cups of iceberg lettuce and add it to an extra-large serving bowl as the base of your salad.
- Cook the Ground Beef: Brown 1½ pounds of very lean ground beef in a skillet over medium-high heat until fully cooked. Drain excess fat to keep it lean. Then, sprinkle the cooked beef evenly over the chopped lettuce.
- Add Vegetables and Cheese: Evenly sprinkle 1½ cups shredded Colby jack cheese, 1 cup diced Roma tomatoes, 1 cup sliced red onions, and ½ cup diced dill pickles over the ground beef layer. Toss gently to combine all ingredients.
- Dress the Salad: Drizzle Thousand Island dressing over the top, as much or as little as you prefer. Serve immediately to enjoy the fresh and familiar flavors reminiscent of a Big Mac burger.
Notes
- For a lower calorie option, use a reduced-fat cheese or less cheese.
- You can substitute the Thousand Island dressing with a homemade version using mayonnaise, ketchup, and sweet pickle relish.
- This salad is best served fresh to maintain the crispness of the lettuce and other vegetables.
- Lean ground turkey or chicken can be used as an alternative to beef for a lighter salad.
Keywords: Big Mac Salad, ground beef salad, American salad, low carb salad, burger salad, easy dinner salad
