If you’re craving the nostalgic flavor of a Big Mac but want something lighter, fresher, and low in carbs, this Big Mac Salad Bowl might just be your new go-to meal. It’s a deconstructed version of the iconic burger, built as a hearty salad with seasoned ground beef, crisp lettuce, tangy pickles, and a creamy, flavorful sauce that mimics the original—without the bun or the drive-thru.
Whether you’re eating keto, trying to cut carbs, or just love a well-balanced salad that doesn’t sacrifice on flavor, this recipe hits all the right notes.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This dish brings together familiar ingredients in a new, healthier format:
- Flavor-packed: The homemade Big Mac sauce delivers all the richness you’d expect.
- Quick and easy: Perfect for weeknight dinners or simple meal prep.
- Customizable: Add or swap toppings based on your preferences.
- Low-carb alternative: No bun means fewer carbs but all the satisfaction.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s what goes into this Big Mac-inspired salad:
- 1/2 cup Big Mac sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 large iceberg lettuce, chopped
- 1/2 cup dill pickles, sliced
- 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
For the Big Mac Sauce:
If you’re making the sauce from scratch (recommended), combine:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons ketchup
- 2 tablespoons finely diced pickles
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon yellow mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
Whisk everything together until smooth and creamy.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Make the Sauce
Start by preparing the Big Mac sauce. Mix all the sauce ingredients in a bowl until well combined. Set aside in the fridge while you cook the beef and prep the salad. This allows the flavors to meld together for a richer taste.
2. Cook the Ground Beef
In a medium skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon or spatula. Cook until browned, about 7–9 minutes. Season with salt and pepper, stir well, and remove from heat.
Tip: Let the beef cool slightly before assembling the bowls to avoid wilting the lettuce.
3. Assemble the Salad Bowls
In four serving bowls, layer the ingredients in this order for the best texture and flavor balance:
- A generous base of chopped iceberg lettuce
- A handful of sliced dill pickles
- A few slices of red onion
- A sprinkle of shredded cheddar cheese
- Halved cherry tomatoes
- A scoop of warm ground beef on top
Drizzle the Big Mac sauce over each bowl just before serving.
Serving Suggestions
This salad is satisfying enough to serve on its own, but here are a few serving tips:
- For extra crunch, toss in a few low-carb croutons or roasted chickpeas.
- For meal prep, store components separately in the fridge and assemble when ready to eat.
- For added freshness, serve with a wedge of lemon or a side of cucumber slices.
Variations to Try
This salad is easy to adapt. Try some of these twists:
- Make it spicy: Add jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the beef or the dressing.
- Add avocado: For extra creaminess and healthy fats.
- Swap the protein: Use ground turkey or a plant-based meat substitute for a different flavor profile.
Tips for Best Results
- Chill the sauce: Letting the sauce rest helps bring out its flavor.
- Drain excess grease: If the beef is too oily, blot or drain before adding it to the bowls.
- Serve fresh: This salad is best enjoyed right after assembling to maintain crispness.
Final Thoughts
The Big Mac Salad Bowl combines comfort food nostalgia with fresh, clean ingredients. It’s a clever way to enjoy the flavors of a classic fast-food burger without the heaviness. Whether you’re following a low-carb lifestyle or just looking for a fun and flavorful lunch option, this salad fits right in.
It’s everything you love about a Big Mac—reimagined for your everyday kitchen.
Big Mac Salad
Ingredients
Method
- Make the Big Mac sauce by whisking together the mayonnaise, ketchup, diced pickles, lemon juice, sugar, mustard, onion powder, salt, and garlic powder.
- Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned. Season with salt and pepper and set aside.
- In four bowls, arrange layers of lettuce, pickles, onion, shredded cheddar cheese, cherry tomatoes, and the cooked beef. Drizzle the Big Mac sauce over the top and serve immediately.
Notes
- Feel free to customize the Big Mac sauce by adjusting the ingredients to your taste.
- This recipe is perfect for meal prepping and can be stored in the refrigerator for a few days.
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