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This Big Mac Salad brings all the classic flavors of the iconic burger into a fresh, easy-to-make salad that is perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. It’s a fun way to enjoy those familiar tastes without the bun, making it lighter but just as satisfying.
I first tried this recipe when craving a Big Mac but wanting a healthier option. Since then, it’s become a favorite in my house because it feels indulgent without being heavy
Ingredients
- Six cups chopped iceberg lettuce: for a crisp and refreshing base choose fresh, pale green heads without brown edges
- One and a half pounds very lean ground beef: which provides protein without excess fat I recommend 90 percent lean for best texture
- One and a half cups shredded Colby jack cheese: adds creamy richness and mild flavor buy pre-shredded or shred your own for freshness
- One cup diced Roma tomatoes: to add juicy acidity and color look for firm tomatoes without blemishes
- One cup sliced red onion: gives a sharp bite and vibrant color choose firm onions without soft spots
- Half a cup diced dill pickles: which bring that signature tangy crunch reminiscent of a Big Mac
- Thousand Island dressing: completes the dish, providing sweet and tangy notes homemade or store-bought is fine depending on your preference
Instructions
- Scoop the Lettuce:
- Add the chopped iceberg lettuce to a large serving bowl. Make sure the lettuce is well chilled for the best crunch.
- Layer the Beef:
- Sprinkle the browned and drained ground beef evenly over the lettuce. Browning the beef well helps build that savory depth just like in the burger.
- Add Cheese and Veggies:
- Sprinkle shredded Colby jack cheese across the beef layer for gooey bites throughout. Dice the Roma tomatoes and scatter them on top for bursts of freshness. Add sliced red onions to provide a zesty contrast.
- Scatter the Pickles:
- Add diced dill pickles over the salad. These are essential for mimicking the Big Mac's signature flavor, so don’t skip them.
- Dress and Serve:
- Drizzle Thousand Island dressing generously or lightly over the salad depending on your taste. Toss gently if you want, or serve as is for a layered look. Serve immediately to enjoy peak freshness.
One of my favorite things about this salad is how it reminds me of summer barbecues where everyone grabs a plate and digs in family style. It’s casual and comforting but fresh and flavorful. Those pickles and dressing tie it all together magically.
Storage tips
Keep the components separate if you want to make this ahead. Store the ground beef and chopped veggies in airtight containers and dress just before serving to keep everything crisp and fresh. The salad is best eaten within a day or two but the beef can be frozen if needed.
Ingredient substitutions
Ground turkey or chicken can replace beef for a lighter option, though the flavor will be milder. Swap Colby jack with cheddar or Monterey Jack if you prefer. You can use green leaf lettuce instead of iceberg but the crunch won’t be quite the same.
Serving suggestions
Pair with crusty bread or garlic toast to round out the meal. A side of crispy oven-baked fries or sweet potato wedges makes this salad feel more like a full Big Mac experience. Add a cold soda or iced tea for a refreshing combo.
This Big Mac Salad is a perfect blend of familiar and fresh tastes with easy preparation. Enjoy it whenever you want that burger flavor without the bun.
FAQs about Recipes
- → What kind of lettuce works best?
Crisp iceberg lettuce provides a refreshing crunch that balances the hearty ingredients.
- → Can I use another type of cheese?
Colby jack adds mild flavor and creaminess, but cheddar or mozzarella also work well.
- → How should the ground beef be prepared?
Brown the lean ground beef thoroughly and drain excess fat for a lean, flavorful base.
- → What dressing complements this salad?
Thousand Island dressing offers a creamy, tangy element that enhances the overall taste.
- → Can I add more vegetables?
Yes, you can include extras like cucumbers or bell peppers to increase freshness and texture variety.