Big Mac Salad Recipe You’ll Crave – Fresh, Easy & Delicious

If you love a Big Mac but want something lighter, this Big Mac salad recipe is the perfect answer. It’s loaded with all the flavors you know and love—juicy beef, tangy pickles, fresh lettuce—just without the bun.

“Healthy recipes don’t have to be boring. This Big Mac salad gives you all the fast-food taste in a fresh, homemade version.”

My Experience with This Big Mac Salad Recipe

I first made this Big Mac salad recipe during a low-carb challenge. It was so good that even my fast-food-loving friends asked for seconds. The homemade dressing truly makes it taste like the real thing.

Big Mac Salad Recipe

A low-carb, flavorful salad with all the taste of a Big Mac—without the bun.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 10 minutes mins

Total Time 20 minutes mins

Course Lunch, Salad

Cuisine American

Servings 4 servings

Calories 480 kcal

Equipment

• 1 Skillet
• 1 Cutting Board
• 1 Knife
• 1 Mixing Bowl

Ingredients

  

For the Salad:

• 1 lb ground beef (sub: ground turkey)
• 1 head romaine lettuce chopped
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (sub: mozzarella)
• 1 cup diced tomatoes
• 1/2 cup dill pickles chopped
• 1/4 cup diced red onions

For the Dressing:

• 1/2 cup mayonnaise (sub: Greek yogurt)
• 2 tbsp ketchup
• 1 tbsp yellow mustard
• 1 tbsp pickle juice
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• Salt & pepper to taste

Instructions

 

• Cook the beef: In a skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef until browned. Drain excess fat.
• Season: Add salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Stir well.
• Make the dressing: In a small bowl, mix mayonnaise, ketchup, mustard, pickle juice, and garlic powder.
• Prep the veggies: Chop lettuce, tomatoes, pickles, and onions.
• Assemble: Layer lettuce in bowls, add beef, cheese, tomatoes, pickles, and onions.
• Dress it up: Drizzle the dressing over each salad.
• Serve: Enjoy immediately for the best taste.

Notes

For the best taste, prepare the beef fresh and keep dressing separate until serving.

Keyword Big Mac salad recipe, cheeseburger salad, low carb salad

My Top 7 Tips for a Big Mac Salad Recipe

1. Use lean beef – Reduces excess grease.
2. Chop veggies evenly – For better texture in every bite.
3. Serve warm beef – Enhances flavor.
4. Toast spices – Brings out aroma.
5. Double the dressing – Store for future salads.
6. Make it ahead – Store components separately.
7. Check nutrition facts – USDA FoodData Central has exact values for each ingredient.

Big Mac Salad Recipe Variations to Try

• Low-Calorie Version – Use Greek yogurt instead of mayo.
• Spicy Big Mac Salad – Add jalapeños and hot sauce.
• Cheeseburger Salad – Swap cheddar for American cheese slices.
• Vegan Big Mac Salad – Use plant-based beef and vegan mayo.
• Double Big Mac Salad – Add extra beef and cheese for a hearty meal.

How to Store Your Big Mac Salad Recipe

• Fridge: Store salad components separately in airtight containers for up to 3 days.
• Freezer: Only freeze cooked beef; thaw before use.
• Meal Prep Tip: Keep dressing in a jar and drizzle right before serving.

Perfect Pairings

• Sweet potato fries
• Iced tea
• Garlic bread

Troubleshooting Tips

• Salad too watery? Pat lettuce dry before use.
• Beef too bland? Add more seasoning or a dash of Worcestershire sauce.

Nutrition Table (Per Serving)

Conclusion

If you enjoyed this Big Mac Salad recipe, you’ll love exploring more comfort food favorites. For a creamy and cheesy twist, check out our Southern Mac and Cheese Recipe – it’s rich, baked to perfection, and full of flavor. Or, try the classic Mac and Cheese Recipe: A Delicious and Comforting Classic for the ultimate nostalgic dish. Both pair perfectly with a fresh salad for a balanced, satisfying meal.

Explore more recipes here → SpoonnSpice

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