The Big Mac Salad gives you all the iconic flavors of a Big Mac—juicy beef, crisp lettuce, pickles, cheese, and that creamy “special sauce”—without the bun. It’s hearty, satisfying, and perfect for low-carb, keto, or lighter comfort-food cravings.
Ingredients (Serves 4)
Salad
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1 lb (450 g) ground beef
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1 tsp olive oil (if beef is lean)
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Salt & black pepper, to taste
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6 cups chopped romaine or iceberg lettuce
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1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
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½ cup diced tomatoes
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½ cup diced pickles
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¼ cup finely chopped onion
Big Mac–Style Dressing
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½ cup mayonnaise
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2 tbsp ketchup
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1 tbsp yellow mustard
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1 tbsp pickle relish
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1 tsp white vinegar
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½ tsp paprika
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¼ tsp garlic powder
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Beef
Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add ground beef, season with salt and pepper, and cook until browned. Drain excess fat and set aside.
Step 2: Make Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, ketchup, mustard, relish, vinegar, paprika, and garlic powder until smooth.
Step 3: Assemble Salad
Divide lettuce among bowls. Top with warm beef, cheese, tomatoes, pickles, and onions.
Step 4: Dress & Serve
Drizzle with Big Mac–style dressing and toss gently. Serve immediately.
Tips for Best Flavor
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Use iceberg for classic crunch.
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Add beef while warm to slightly melt the cheese.
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Chop toppings small for true Big Mac texture.
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Adjust sauce sweetness with extra relish or vinegar.
Q/A Section
Q1: Is this salad keto or low-carb?
A: Yes! Skip ketchup or use sugar-free ketchup for keto.
Q2: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: Prep ingredients ahead; assemble just before serving.
Q3: Can I use ground turkey?
A: Yes—ground turkey or chicken works well.
Q4: How do I make it Weight Watchers–friendly?
A: Use lean beef, reduced-fat cheese, and light mayo.
Q5: What can I add for extra crunch?
A: Sesame seeds or crushed low-carb crackers.
