Why You’ll Love This big mac salad recipe
- Ease of preparation: This big mac salad recipe is quick and simple to prepare, with straightforward steps like browning lean ground beef and assembling fresh ingredients, perfect for busy weekdays or last-minute meals. Minimal cooking time means you can enjoy a flavorful, satisfying meal without the fuss.
- Health benefits: Packed with nutrient-rich romaine lettuce and lean ground beef, this big mac salad recipe provides a balanced combination of protein, fiber, and essential vitamins. It offers a nutritious alternative to the classic burger by cutting carbs and including fresh vegetables to support wellness.
- Versatility: This big mac salad is highly adaptable. Swap lean ground beef for turkey or plant-based alternatives for a varied protein source. The recipe caters easily to gluten-free and low-carb diets while allowing you to add extras like bacon bits or extra veggies to suit your preferences.
- Distinctive flavor: Bringing the iconic taste of the Big Mac into a refreshing salad format, this recipe offers bold flavors from the special sauce, savory seasoned beef, tangy pickles, and sharp cheddar cheese. The crunch of romaine lettuce combined with the creamy dressing delivers a satisfying taste experience that makes this big mac salad stand out.
Jump To
- 1. Why You’ll Love This big mac salad recipe
- 2. Essential Ingredients for big mac salad recipe
- 3. How to Prepare the Perfect big mac salad recipe: Step-by-Step Guide
- 4. Dietary Substitutions to Customize Your big mac salad recipe
- 5. Mastering big mac salad recipe: Advanced Tips and Variations
- 6. How to Store big mac salad recipe: Best Practices
- 7. FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions About big mac salad recipe
- 8. big mac salad recipe
Essential Ingredients for big mac salad recipe
Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb (450 g) lean ground beef – serves as the protein base and provides authentic burger flavor
- 3 heads romaine lettuce, chopped and washed – adds crispness and freshness
- ½ cup freshly shredded cheddar cheese – offers creamy texture and sharpness
- 1 red onion, thinly sliced or ½ cup finely diced – brings mild pungency and crunch
- 3 Roma tomatoes, chopped (about ½ cup) – adds juiciness and color
- ½ cup dill pickles, sliced or minced – delivers tangy zest essential to Big Mac flavor
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (optional) – for garnish and added crunch
- Salt and pepper to taste – to season the beef and salad components
- Optional seasonings for beef: 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce, ½ teaspoon garlic powder, ½ teaspoon onion powder, seasoned salt or regular salt – to boost meaty flavor
Special Dietary Options:
- Vegan: Substitute lean ground beef with plant-based crumbles or cooked lentils, and replace cheddar cheese with vegan cheese alternatives.
- Gluten-free: Ensure the special sauce ingredients and pickles are certified gluten-free to maintain safe preparation.
- Low-calorie: Swap ground beef with lean ground turkey, and consider reduced-fat cheese or smaller cheese portions for a lighter meal.
How to Prepare the Perfect big mac salad recipe: Step-by-Step Guide
First Step: Prepare Ingredients
Start by washing and chopping 3 heads of romaine lettuce into bite-sized pieces. Slice the red onion thinly or finely dice about ½ cup for even distribution. Chop 3 Roma tomatoes into small chunks. Slice or mince ½ cup of dill pickles. Shred ½ cup of cheddar cheese freshly to enhance flavor and texture.
Second Step: Cook the Ground Beef
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add 1 lb (450 g) lean ground beef with an optional tablespoon of olive oil to prevent sticking. Let the meat sear without stirring for a few minutes to develop a brown crust, then break it apart with a spatula. Season with 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce, ½ teaspoon garlic powder, ½ teaspoon onion powder, salt, and pepper to taste. Continue cooking until fully browned with no pink inside, about 8–10 minutes. Drain excess fat and let it cool slightly to prevent wilting the lettuce when assembling.
Third Step: Make the Special Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together 1 cup mayonnaise, ¼ cup prepared French dressing or ketchup (or half and half), 2 tablespoons minced pickles, 2 tablespoons minced onion, and 1 tablespoon distilled white vinegar. Add 1 tablespoon yellow mustard if desired, and salt to taste. For best results, make the sauce a few hours ahead or the day before and refrigerate to let flavors meld.
Fourth Step: Assemble the Salad
In a large bowl or individual plates, layer the chopped romaine lettuce. Add the cooked ground beef on top, followed by the thinly sliced red onion, freshly shredded cheddar cheese, chopped tomatoes, and dill pickles. Drizzle the prepared special sauce over the salad evenly.
Final Step: Garnish and Serve
Sprinkle 1 tablespoon of sesame seeds over the salad for added crunch and presentation if using. Toss gently to combine all ingredients or serve the dressing on the side for guests to add as they prefer. Serve immediately for peak freshness.
To keep salads crisp for meal prep, layer ingredients in containers placing toppings below the lettuce and keep the special sauce separate until serving.
Dietary Substitutions to Customize Your big mac salad recipe
Protein and Main Component Alternatives
- Swap lean ground beef with lean ground turkey or chicken to reduce fat content while preserving protein.
- For a vegan option, substitute beef with seasoned plant-based crumbles or cooked lentils to keep the texture hearty and protein-rich.
- Try grilled shrimp or seared steak strips for a high-protein variation adding surf and turf flair to the salad.
Vegetable, Sauce, and Seasoning Modifications
- Replace iceberg or romaine lettuce with spinach, kale, or mixed greens for added nutrients and different textures.
- Use low-fat or vegan mayonnaise in the special sauce to reduce calories and accommodate dairy-free diets.
- Add extras like chopped cucumbers, grated carrots, or avocado slices to enrich flavor and increase fiber content.
- For an extra tangy kick, substitute dill pickles with tangy olives or banana peppers.
Mastering big mac salad recipe: Advanced Tips and Variations
- Pro cooking techniques: Brown the ground beef in batches to avoid steaming and get a richer, caramelized crust for maximum flavor.
- Flavor variations: Add smoked paprika, chipotle powder, or a pinch of cayenne to the beef seasoning for a smoky, spicy twist. Mix in fresh herbs like parsley or chives to brighten the salad.
- Presentation tips: Serve the salad in separate, clear glass bowls or jars highlighting layers for visual appeal. Top with sesame seeds or crispy fried onions to add texture.
- Make-ahead options: Prepare the cooked beef and special sauce in advance, store separately from fresh veggies to keep the salad crisp. Assemble right before serving to maintain freshness.
How to Store big mac salad recipe: Best Practices
| Storage Method | Guideline |
|---|---|
| Refrigeration | Store the salad ingredients separately in airtight containers. Keep lettuce dry and cold to maintain crispness for up to 2 days. Store cooked ground beef and special sauce in the refrigerator separately. |
| Freezing | Avoid freezing the assembled salad as lettuce and sauce texture will degrade. Freeze cooked ground beef alone for up to 3 months, thaw thoroughly before use. |
| Reheating | Reheat the cooked beef gently on the stove or microwave; add fresh veggies and sauce after warming. |
| Meal prep considerations | Keep components in separate containers; add dressing just before eating to prevent sogginess and preserve flavors and textures throughout the week. |
FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions About big mac salad recipe
What ingredients do I need to make a Big Mac Salad at home?
To make a Big Mac Salad, you’ll need romaine lettuce, lean ground beef or a substitute like ground turkey, shredded cheddar cheese, diced tomatoes, chopped onions, and sliced dill pickles. For the dressing, combine mayonnaise, prepared French dressing or ketchup, minced pickles, minced onion, and a splash of vinegar or pickle juice. These ingredients come together to recreate the flavors of a classic Big Mac without the bun, making it suitable for low-carb and gluten-free diets.
How do I prepare the ground beef for the Big Mac Salad?
Brown the lean ground beef in a skillet over medium-high heat until seared on the bottom, then break it apart and stir. Add Worcestershire sauce, seasoned salt, and pepper for extra flavor. Cook until fully browned and no longer pink inside. Drain any excess fat using paper towels before adding the beef to your salad. Properly cooked beef adds protein and the familiar taste that defines the Big Mac Salad.
Can I make the Big Mac Salad dressing ahead of time, and how long does it keep?
Yes, you can prepare the special sauce dressing several days in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. The dressing’s flavors tend to meld and improve with time. Just give it a good stir before using. Keeping the dressing separate from the salad until serving preserves the salad’s crisp texture.
What are some good substitutions for the cheese and meat in a Big Mac Salad?
If you prefer not to use cheddar cheese, alternatives like Swiss, Monterey Jack, or crumbled blue cheese work well. For meat, you can swap ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based options like tofu or tempeh. Adjust cooking times depending on your choice to maintain proper texture and flavor. These swaps allow customization while keeping the salad nutritious and satisfying.
How should I assemble and store Big Mac Salads for meal prep during the week?
Start with a base of chopped romaine lettuce in meal prep containers. Add cooked ground beef, shredded cheese, diced tomatoes, onions, and pickles. Keep the special sauce dressing in separate small containers to avoid sogginess. Store salads covered in the refrigerator and add the dressing just before eating. This method keeps salads fresh and convenient for lunches or quick meals throughout the week.
big mac salad recipe
- Total Time: 32 mins
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Low-carb, Gluten-free, High-protein
Description
🥗 Enjoy a high-protein, low-carb meal inspired by the classic Big Mac, without the bun.
🍤 This Big Mac Salad with steak and shrimp adds flavorful variety and a satisfying mix of textures for a nutritious dinner option.
Ingredients
1 lb lean ground beef for protein base
3 heads romaine lettuce, chopped and washed for freshness
1/2 cup freshly shredded cheddar cheese for creamy texture
1/2 cup red onion
3 Roma tomatoes, chopped
1/2 cup dill pickles
1 tablespoon sesame seeds for garnish
Salt and pepper for seasoning
1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce for beef
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder for beef
1/2 teaspoon onion powder for beef
seasoned salt or regular salt for beef
Instructions
First Step: Prepare Ingredients Start by washing and chopping 3 heads of romaine lettuce into bite-sized pieces. Slice the red onion thinly or finely dice about ½ cup for even distribution. Chop 3 Roma tomatoes into small chunks. Slice or mince ½ cup of dill pickles. Shred ½ cup of cheddar cheese freshly to enhance flavor and texture.
Second Step: Cook the Ground Beef Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add 1 lb (450 g) lean ground beef with an optional tablespoon of olive oil to prevent sticking. Let the meat sear without stirring for a few minutes to develop a brown crust, then break it apart with a spatula. Season with 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce, ½ teaspoon garlic powder, ½ teaspoon onion powder, salt, and pepper to taste. Continue cooking until fully browned with no pink inside, about 8–10 minutes. Drain excess fat and let it cool slightly to prevent wilting the lettuce when assembling.
Third Step: Make the Special Sauce In a small bowl, whisk together 1 cup mayonnaise, ¼ cup prepared French dressing or ketchup (or half and half), 2 tablespoons minced pickles, 2 tablespoons minced onion, and 1 tablespoon distilled white vinegar. Add 1 tablespoon yellow mustard if desired, and salt to taste. For best results, make the sauce a few hours ahead or the day before and refrigerate to let flavors meld.
Fourth Step: Assemble the Salad In a large bowl or individual plates, layer the chopped romaine lettuce. Add the cooked ground beef on top, followed by the thinly sliced red onion, freshly shredded cheddar cheese, chopped tomatoes, and dill pickles. Drizzle the prepared special sauce over the salad evenly.
Final Step: Garnish and Serve Sprinkle 1 tablespoon of sesame seeds over the salad for added crunch and presentation if using. Toss gently to combine all ingredients or serve the dressing on the side for guests to add as they prefer. Serve immediately for peak freshness. To keep salads crisp for meal prep, layer ingredients in containers placing toppings below the lettuce and keep the special sauce separate until serving.
Notes
🧀 Freshly grate the cheddar cheese for richer flavor and smoother texture.
🥩 Use Worcestershire sauce and seasonings like garlic and onion powder to boost the beef’s taste.
🥗 For meal prep, store dressing separately to keep lettuce crisp until serving.
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Dressing Chill Time: 2 hrs
- Cook Time: 15 mins
- Category: Salad, Low-Carb, High-Protein
- Method: Sautéing and Assembling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 medium bowl
- Calories: 525 kcal
- Sugar: 6.5 g
- Sodium: 954 mg
- Fat: 41 g
- Saturated Fat: 10 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 29 g
- Trans Fat: 0.5 g
- Carbohydrates: 13 g
- Fiber: 5 g
- Protein: 23 g
- Cholesterol: 78 mg
Keywords: Big Mac Salad, Steak and Shrimp, Low-Carb Meal, High-Protein