Big Mac Salad Recipe: Guilt-Free Twist on a Fast Food Classic
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The iconic Big Mac, a sandwich that’s hard to resist, but not always the healthiest of options. But what if you could capture the essence of that signature flavor combination – the juicy beef, the creamy special sauce, the crunchy lettuce and pickles – in a salad? Welcome to the ultimate game-changer: a Big Mac-inspired salad that’s not only a healthier twist on the classic, but also a show-stopper at any potluck or dinner party.
With a few simple swaps and creative substitutions, we’re trading in the bun for a bed of crisp greens, swapping out the beef for leaner options, and adding in some sneaky veggies to boost the nutrition factor. Get ready to indulge in a salad that’s so good, you’ll never miss the original.
Betty Crocker Suddenly Pasta Salad, Classic, Twin Pack, 15.5 oz
$4.17 ($0.27 / ounce) (as of November 9, 2025 12:58 GMT -05:00 - More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 cups lettuce, chopped
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup pickles, chopped
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup Thousand Island dressing
- Sesame seed burger buns (optional, for croutons)
How to Make Big Mac Salad
In a skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat, breaking it into small pieces. Season the beef with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper, and cook until fully browned.
In a large bowl, combine the chopped lettuce, cherry tomatoes, pickles, shredded cheddar, and mozzarella.
Once the beef is cooked, let it cool slightly before adding it to the salad mixture. Drizzle with Thousand Island dressing and toss well to combine.
If you like, you can also add toasted sesame seed burger bun pieces for an extra crunch, being sure to break them into crouton-sized pieces. Serve immediately.
How to Serve Big Mac Salad
Big Mac salad is perfect for a quick lunch or a light dinner, making it suitable for any time of the day, especially during warm weather. To serve at home, you might accompany it with some crispy fries or garlic bread for added texture and heartiness.
This dish is great for casual family meals or laid-back dinners with friends, as it provides a fun and tasty alternative to traditional burgers without the bun.
