Follow these steps to make a Big Mac Salad that’s bursting with flavor:
- Cook the Beef: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned and fully cooked, breaking it into crumbles with a spatula. Drain excess fat if necessary. Season lightly with salt and pepper.
- Prepare the Salad Base: In a large salad bowl, place the chopped iceberg lettuce as the foundation for your salad.
- Add the Toppings: Sprinkle shredded Colby Jack cheese evenly over the lettuce. Add diced tomatoes, sliced red onion, and diced dill pickles on top.
- Add the Beef: Top the salad with the cooked ground beef evenly over the vegetables and cheese.
- Dress and Serve: Drizzle Thousand Island dressing generously over the salad. Toss lightly if desired, or serve with the dressing on the side.
Serving and Storage
Serve the Big Mac Salad immediately for maximum freshness and crunch. It makes a hearty lunch or dinner for one to four people depending on portion size. For meal prep, store the salad and dressing separately in airtight containers to prevent sogginess. The salad will keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, but it’s best enjoyed fresh.
Tips
- Use Fresh Lettuce: Crisp iceberg lettuce gives the classic crunch reminiscent of a Big Mac. Romaine can be substituted if preferred.
- Customize the Dressing: Mix your own Thousand Island dressing using ketchup, mayo, relish, and a touch of vinegar for a fresher taste.
- Add Extra Flavor: Sprinkle a little garlic powder or smoked paprika into the ground beef while cooking for added depth.
- Make it Low-Carb: Serve without any croutons or bun bits to keep it keto-friendly.
- Meal Prep Friendly: Store all ingredients separately and assemble just before eating to keep textures fresh.
Conclusion
This Big Mac Salad brings all the indulgent flavors of a cheeseburger into a light, satisfying, and easy-to-make salad. Juicy ground beef, melted cheese, crisp lettuce, tangy pickles, and creamy dressing make each bite a flavor-packed experience. Perfect for low-carb meals, family dinners, or a fun lunch, this salad delivers Big Mac vibes without the bun.
Whether you’re trying to eat healthier or just love the flavor of a classic cheeseburger, this salad is simple, delicious, and completely customizable to your taste.
FAQ
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes! Cheddar, American, or Swiss cheese work well. Choose your favorite for a slightly different flavor.
Can I make this salad vegetarian?
Yes, substitute the ground beef with cooked plant-based crumbles or seasoned tofu for a vegetarian version.
Can I prep this salad ahead of time?
Yes, store the lettuce, vegetables, cheese, and cooked beef separately and combine just before serving to keep everything fresh.
What’s the best dressing for this salad?
Thousand Island is traditional, but you can also use a low-carb burger sauce or a creamy vinaigrette.
Is this salad keto-friendly?
Yes, it’s naturally low-carb as long as you use a low-carb dressing and skip any added bread or croutons.