Big Mac Salad Recipe

Introduction

The Big Mac Salad brings all the beloved flavors of the classic burger into a fresh, easy-to-eat salad form. Packed with seasoned ground beef, crisp lettuce, tangy pickles, and a creamy special dressing, this dish is perfect for a satisfying lunch or dinner.

Ingredients

• 1 lb lean ground beef
• Salt, pepper, and garlic powder to taste
• ¼ cup toasted sesame seeds
• 4 cups chopped romaine lettuce
• 4 cups chopped iceberg lettuce
• 2 plum tomatoes, chopped
• 1 ½ cups grated sharp cheddar cheese
• ½ cup sliced dill pickles
• ½ cup very finely chopped onion
• 4 tablespoons mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons ketchup
• 2 tablespoons dill pickles, finely chopped or relish
• 2 teaspoons pickle juice
• Black pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Step 1: Brown the ground beef in a medium-sized frying pan over medium-high heat. Season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder to taste. Drain excess fat if necessary.
2. Step 2: Toast the sesame seeds in a dry pan over medium heat for 3 to 5 minutes, until golden brown. Set aside to cool.
3. Step 3: In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, ketchup, finely chopped pickles or relish, pickle juice, and black pepper. Set the dressing aside.
4. Step 4: Wash and chop the romaine and iceberg lettuces. Dry thoroughly using a salad spinner or paper towels, then transfer to a large bowl.
5. Step 5: Chop the plum tomatoes and finely chop the onions. Slice the dill pickles and grate the cheddar cheese.
6. Step 6: Divide the lettuce evenly into 4 or 6 serving bowls. Layer the browned beef on top, followed by tomatoes, pickles, cheese, and onions.
7. Step 7: Drizzle the dressing over each salad and garnish with the toasted sesame seeds. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Tips & Variations

• For extra crunch, add a handful of crushed potato chips or crispy fried onions just before serving.
• Swap sharp cheddar for American cheese or a blend of your favorite cheeses for a different flavor profile.
• If you prefer a lighter dressing, substitute half the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt.
• Use homemade dill pickle relish or finely chop whole pickles to control sweetness and texture in the dressing.

Storage

Store any leftover salad components separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keep the dressing refrigerated as well. Assemble just before serving to maintain crispness. Reheat the ground beef gently in a microwave or on the stove if desired, but do not reheat the salad greens.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make the Big Mac Salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the ground beef and dressing in advance and store them separately. Keep the lettuce and fresh vegetables refrigerated and assemble the salad just before serving to keep it crisp.

What can I use instead of ground beef?

You can substitute ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based ground meat alternative for a different twist or to suit dietary preferences.

Big Mac Salad Recipe

Print Recipe

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4.9 from 685 reviews

A flavorful and satisfying Big Mac Salad inspired by the classic burger, combining lean ground beef, fresh lettuce, tomatoes, pickles, sharp cheddar cheese, and a tangy homemade dressing topped with toasted sesame seeds.

• Author: Nora
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 4–6 servings 1x
• Category: Salad
• Method: Frying
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Salad Ingredients

• 1 lb lean ground beef
• Salt, pepper, and garlic powder to taste
• ¼ cup toasted sesame seeds
• 4 cups chopped romaine lettuce
• 4 cups chopped iceberg lettuce
• 2 plum tomatoes, chopped
• 1 ½ cups grated sharp cheddar cheese
• ½ cup sliced dill pickles
• ½ cup very finely chopped onion

Dressing Ingredients

• 4 tablespoons mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons ketchup
• 2 tablespoons dill pickles, finely chopped or relish
• 2 teaspoons pickle juice
• Black pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Brown the Beef: In a medium-sized frying pan over medium-high heat, brown the lean ground beef. Season it with salt, pepper, and garlic powder to taste. Once cooked through, drain excess fat if necessary.
2. Toast Sesame Seeds: In a dry pan over medium heat, toast the sesame seeds for 3-5 minutes until they turn golden brown. Remove from heat and set aside to cool.
3. Prepare Dressing: In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, ketchup, finely chopped pickles or relish, pickle juice, and black pepper. Whisk or stir well until smooth. Set aside.
4. Prepare Lettuce: Wash and chop the romaine and iceberg lettuces. Use a salad spinner to remove excess water or pat dry with paper towels. Transfer the lettuce to a large salad bowl.
5. Prep Vegetables and Cheese: Chop the plum tomatoes and finely chop the onions. Slice the dill pickles and grate the sharp cheddar cheese.
6. Assemble the Salad: Divide the chopped lettuces into 4 or 6 serving bowls. Layer the browned ground beef evenly over the lettuce. Then add layers of tomatoes, pickles, cheddar cheese, and onions.
7. Add Dressing and Garnish: Drizzle the prepared Big Mac-style dressing over each salad. Finally, sprinkle the toasted sesame seeds on top as a garnish. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Notes

• For a leaner option, use extra lean ground beef and thoroughly drain fat after cooking.
• Adjust seasoning in the beef according to your preference.
• To make the dressing spicier, add a dash of hot sauce or cayenne pepper.
• Use freshly grated cheddar cheese for best flavor and texture.
• Serve this salad chilled or at room temperature for optimal taste.

Keywords: Big Mac Salad, Ground Beef Salad, Hamburger Salad, American Salad, Low Carb Salad, Easy Salad Recipe