Description
This Easy Big Mac Salad is a quick and satisfying dish inspired by the classic burger, combining seasoned ground beef with fresh romaine lettuce, tangy pickles, creamy cheddar cheese, and a flavorful homemade Big Mac-style dressing. Ready in just 25 minutes, it’s perfect for a low-carb dinner that delivers all the beloved flavors without the bun.
Ingredients
Scale
Beef Mixture
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
Salad
- 6 cups chopped romaine lettuce
- 1/2 cup sliced pickles
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup thinly sliced onions
Dressing
- 1/3 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp ketchup
- 1 tbsp mustard
- 1 tsp vinegar
- 1 tsp paprika
Instructions
- Heat Oil and Brown Beef: Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat until shimmering. Add the ground beef and cook, stirring occasionally, until it’s fully browned and no longer pink inside, about 5-7 minutes.
- Season the Beef: Sprinkle garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper over the beef. Stir to coat the meat evenly with the spices and cook for another 2 minutes to develop flavor.
- Prepare the Salad Base: Remove the skillet from heat. Arrange the chopped romaine lettuce on serving plates or in bowls to create the salad base.
- Assemble the Salad: Spoon the seasoned beef mixture over the beds of lettuce. Then top each portion with sliced pickles, shredded cheddar cheese, and thinly sliced onions to replicate the classic Big Mac components.
- Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, ketchup, mustard, vinegar, and paprika until smooth and creamy. This dressing mimics the signature Big Mac sauce.
- Serve: Drizzle the dressing evenly over the salads just before serving to keep the lettuce crisp and fresh. Enjoy immediately for best texture and flavor.
Notes
- Using lean ground beef reduces fat content and keeps the dish healthier.
- For a lower calorie option, opt for reduced-fat mayonnaise or substitute with Greek yogurt.
- The dressing can be prepared ahead and refrigerated for up to 2 days.
- Add sliced tomatoes for extra freshness if desired.
- This salad is naturally low carb and can be adjusted to fit gluten-free or low-sodium diets by choosing appropriate condiments.
