Big Mac Salad Recipe – A Delicious Low-Carb Take on the Classic Burger

If you love the iconic flavors of a McDonald’s Big Mac, but want a healthier, low-carb alternative, then this Big Mac Salad Recipe is perfect for you! This keto-friendly, gluten-free dish captures the signature taste of a Big Mac without the extra carbs from the bun. Packed with seasoned ground beef, crisp lettuce, shredded cheese, pickles, onions, and a tangy homemade Big Mac sauce, this salad is a flavorful and satisfying meal.

In this guide, we’ll cover everything from choosing the best ingredients to making the perfect special sauce, along with tips for customizing the recipe to fit various dietary needs. Whether you’re on a keto diet, low-carb plan, or just looking for a delicious salad, this recipe is sure to become a household favorite!

Looking for other healthy alternatives? Check out our burger bowl recipe for another low-carb, high-protein meal idea!

Table of Contents

What is a Big Mac Salad?

A Big Mac Salad is a deconstructed, bun-free version of the classic McDonald’s Big Mac. Instead of sandwiching the ingredients between two sesame seed buns, we layer all the delicious components into a crisp and flavorful salad. It includes:

  • Seasoned ground beef – Mimicking the taste of a Big Mac patty
  • Crisp lettuce – A fresh base that adds crunch
  • Shredded cheese – Usually cheddar or American cheese for a classic touch
  • Diced onions & pickles – Essential for replicating the Big Mac flavor
  • Homemade Big Mac Sauce – The star of the salad, made from scratch!

By swapping out the bun for nutrient-rich lettuce, this salad offers a lower-carb, higher-protein alternative without sacrificing the famous Big Mac taste.

Why Choose a Big Mac Salad Over a Traditional Big Mac?

The Big Mac Salad isn’t just a healthier choice—it’s also versatile, customizable, and packed with flavor. Here’s why it’s a fantastic alternative:

FeatureBig Mac BurgerBig Mac Salad
CarbsHigh (from bun)Low-carb, keto-friendly
ProteinModerateHigh
Healthy FatsLimitedCustomizable with avocado, olive oil, etc.
CaloriesHighLower (depending on portion size)
Dietary FlexibilityLimitedEasily adjustable for keto, paleo, and gluten-free diets

If you’re cutting carbs, avoiding gluten, or just looking for a lighter meal, this Big Mac Salad Recipe is a great choice. Plus, it’s quick to make and perfect for meal prepping!

Ingredients for a Perfect Big Mac Salad

Ingredients for Big Mac Salad Recipe
All the fresh ingredients you need for a delicious Big Mac Salad.

To recreate the signature taste of a Big Mac in salad form, it’s important to use the right ingredients. The perfect Big Mac Salad Recipe is all about balance—a mix of savory, tangy, and creamy flavors with the right textures.

Essential Ingredients for the Salad Base

A great Big Mac Salad starts with fresh, crisp, and flavorful ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

  • Ground Beef (80/20 blend) – Provides juicy, flavorful meat similar to a classic Big Mac patty.
  • Iceberg Lettuce – The best choice for a Big Mac Salad because of its light, crunchy texture. You can also mix in romaine lettuce for extra nutrients.
  • Shredded Cheddar Cheese – Gives the salad a cheesy, creamy element that mimics the melted cheese on a Big Mac.
  • Diced White Onion – Adds a sharp, slightly sweet flavor that’s essential for authenticity.
  • Sliced Dill Pickles – Provides the tangy, salty crunch that’s a must-have in any Big Mac-inspired dish.
  • Sesame Seeds (Optional) – A sprinkle on top can give a nod to the sesame seed bun in a traditional Big Mac.

Pro Tip: If you’re making this salad for meal prep, store the lettuce, toppings, and sauce separately to keep it fresh!

The Secret Behind the Big Mac Sauce

The Big Mac Sauce is what truly brings this salad to life. Many assume it’s just Thousand Island dressing, but the real sauce is more tangy and savory.

Is Big Mac Sauce Just Thousand Island Dressing?
Not exactly! While similar, Big Mac Sauce contains a more balanced mix of sweet, tangy, and umami flavors. Thousand Island is often sweeter due to added ketchup and sugar.

Ingredients for Homemade Big Mac Sauce:

  • ½ cup mayonnaise (creamy base)
  • 2 tbsp dill pickle relish (tangy kick)
  • 1 tbsp yellow mustard (signature zing)
  • 1 tsp white vinegar (enhances tanginess)
  • ½ tsp paprika (adds depth)
  • ½ tsp garlic powder (for umami flavor)
  • ½ tsp onion powder (a subtle sweetness)

Want it spicier? Add a dash of hot sauce for extra heat!

Choosing the Right Pickles for Authentic Flavor

Pickles are an essential part of the Big Mac Salad Recipe. But not all pickles are created equal!

Best Pickles for Big Mac Salad:

Type of PickleFlavor ProfileBest Use in Big Mac Salad
Dill PicklesTangy, saltyMost authentic Big Mac taste
Bread & Butter PicklesSlightly sweetAdds a mild sweetness
Kosher PicklesGarlic-forwardGives a bold, zesty taste
GherkinsCrunchy, slightly tartGood for extra texture

Pro Tip: Chop your pickles into small pieces for even flavor distribution in every bite.

Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Big Mac Salad

Now that we’ve gathered all the essential ingredients, it’s time to put everything together! Follow these simple steps to create the perfect Big Mac Salad Recipe that’s packed with flavor, crunch, and the signature Big Mac taste—without the bun!

Step 1: Preparing the Lettuce and Vegetables

The base of the Big Mac Salad is fresh, crispy lettuce and flavorful toppings. Here’s how to prepare them:

Wash & Chop the Lettuce – Use iceberg lettuce for maximum crunch or mix it with romaine for extra nutrients. Chop into bite-sized pieces.

Dice the White Onion – Keep the pieces small to mimic the finely chopped onions in a Big Mac.

Slice the Dill Pickles – Chop them into thin, bite-sized pieces to distribute the tangy flavor evenly.

Shred the Cheddar Cheese – Use freshly shredded cheddar for the best texture and flavor. Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents, which can make it dry.

Optional Additions: Cherry tomatoes, shredded carrots, or avocado for extra freshness and creaminess.

Pro Tip: Keep the lettuce and veggies refrigerated until serving for maximum crunch!

Step 2: Cooking the Perfect Seasoned Ground Beef

The beef is what makes this salad taste like a real Big Mac. Here’s how to cook it for maximum flavor:

Ingredients for Seasoned Ground Beef:

  • 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend for juiciness)
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • ½ tsp garlic powder
  • ½ tsp onion powder
  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce (adds depth of flavor)
  • 1 tbsp yellow mustard (for a classic Big Mac taste)

Instructions:

  1. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  2. Add the ground beef, breaking it up with a spatula as it cooks.
  3. Sprinkle the salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder evenly over the meat.
  4. Stir in Worcestershire sauce and mustard for a rich, savory flavor.
  5. Cook for 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the beef is fully browned.
  6. Drain excess grease, then set aside to cool slightly before assembling the salad.

Pro Tip: Want even juicier beef? Add a tablespoon of beef broth while cooking to keep it moist!

Step 3: Assembling the Salad for the Best Flavor Balance

Once your ingredients are ready, it’s time to assemble the perfect Big Mac Salad!

How to Assemble:

  1. Start with a Base of Lettuce – Add about 2 cups of chopped lettuce to each bowl.
  2. Top with Cooked Ground Beef – Add ¼ cup to ½ cup of seasoned beef per serving.
  3. Sprinkle on the Cheese – A generous ¼ cup of shredded cheddar per bowl.
  4. Add Onions & Pickles – Distribute diced onions and sliced pickles evenly for tangy crunch.
  5. Drizzle with Big Mac Sauce – Pour 1-2 tbsp of homemade sauce over the salad.
  6. Garnish with Sesame Seeds (Optional) – For an extra Big Mac touch, sprinkle sesame seeds on top.

Serving Idea: Want to make it more authentic? Add toasted sesame seed croutons for crunch!

Big Mac Sauce – The Key to the Perfect Salad

A spoon pouring rich, creamy Big Mac Sauce over a fresh Big Mac Salad for the perfect fast-food-inspired flavor.
The perfect tangy Big Mac Sauce drizzled over a fresh salad.

The Big Mac Sauce is what gives the Big Mac Salad Recipe its signature taste. Many people think it’s just Thousand Island dressing, but the real Big Mac Sauce has a more complex balance of flavors—a mix of sweet, tangy, and savory with a smooth, creamy texture.

In this section, we’ll answer common questions about Big Mac Sauce, break down the best homemade recipe, and share tips for storage and extra uses beyond this salad.

Is Big Mac Sauce Just Thousand Island Dressing?

No! While both Big Mac Sauce and Thousand Island dressing have a mayo-based, tangy flavor, there are key differences:

FeatureBig Mac SauceThousand Island Dressing
BaseMayonnaiseMayonnaise
SweetnessMildSweeter (often with added ketchup)
TanginessMore balancedMore acidic
IngredientsYellow mustard, vinegar, paprikaKetchup, relish, Worcestershire sauce
Flavor ProfileSavory, tangy, creamySweeter with more tomato flavor

Big Mac Sauce = More tangy and savory.
Thousand Island = Sweeter with more tomato flavor.

Pro Tip: If you only have Thousand Island dressing, you can adjust it to taste more like Big Mac Sauce by adding mustard and vinegar!

Homemade Big Mac Sauce Recipe

The key to an authentic Big Mac Salad is making your own Big Mac Sauce at home. This quick and easy recipe gives you that classic flavor in just 5 minutes!

Ingredients:

  • ½ cup mayonnaise (full-fat for creaminess)
  • 2 tbsp dill pickle relish (for tangy crunch)
  • 1 tbsp yellow mustard (adds Big Mac flavor)
  • 1 tsp white vinegar (enhances tanginess)
  • ½ tsp paprika (gives mild smokiness)
  • ½ tsp garlic powder (adds umami flavor)
  • ½ tsp onion powder (for mild sweetness)

Instructions:

  1. Mix all ingredients in a small bowl until smooth and well combined.
  2. Let it sit for 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to blend.
  3. Taste and adjust: If you want it tangier, add a little more vinegar. For more sweetness, add a pinch of sugar.
  4. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 week.

Pro Tip: The sauce tastes even better the next day, so make it ahead of time if possible!

How to Use Big Mac Sauce Beyond This Salad

This creamy, tangy sauce isn’t just for Big Mac Salad! Here are some other delicious ways to use it:

As a Burger Sauce – Use it as a spread for homemade burgers.
Dipping Sauce for Fries – Perfect for crispy French fries or sweet potato fries.
Sandwich Spread – Try it on sandwiches, wraps, or even breakfast toast.
Dressing for Other Salads – Drizzle over coleslaw or grilled chicken salads.

Storage Tip: Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 7 days. Shake well before using!

Customizing Your Big Mac Salad

One of the best things about the Big Mac Salad Recipe is its versatility. Whether you’re following a keto, low-carb, paleo, or high-protein diet, this salad can be easily adjusted to fit your needs.

In this section, we’ll explore how to modify the recipe to make it even healthier, how to swap out ingredients for dietary preferences, and which toppings can enhance the flavor without adding unnecessary carbs.

Making It Healthier: Keto & Low-Carb Variations

This Big Mac Salad is already a great low-carb option, but you can make it even healthier with these tweaks:

Ingredient SwapWhy It Works
Use grass-fed beefContains more healthy fats & nutrients
Reduce cheeseLowers calories while keeping flavor
Swap iceberg for romaine or spinachAdds fiber, vitamins, and minerals
Make a dairy-free versionUse dairy-free cheese or omit cheese altogether
Use sugar-free relishKeeps it keto-friendly by removing added sugars

Pro Tip: If you’re on strict keto, make sure your pickles and relish don’t contain added sugars!

Adding Extra Toppings for More Flavor

While this salad already has tons of flavor, you can elevate it with extra toppings. Here are some delicious add-ons that keep it healthy and low-carb:

Avocado – Adds creaminess and healthy fats
Bacon Crumbles – Boosts flavor and crunch
Hard-Boiled Eggs – A great protein-packed addition
Sesame Seeds – A fun nod to the Big Mac bun
Crushed Pork Rinds – Acts as a low-carb crouton substitute

Want more spice? Add a dash of sriracha or red pepper flakes to your Big Mac Sauce!

Best Protein Alternatives: Chicken, Turkey, or Plant-Based Options

Not a fan of ground beef? No problem! Swap it out for a different protein to match your dietary needs.

Protein OptionBenefits
Ground TurkeyLeaner alternative to beef, still full of flavor
Grilled ChickenHigh-protein, low-fat option
Ground ChickenMilder taste, great with Big Mac Sauce
Plant-Based CrumblesPerfect for vegetarians & vegans
Black Beans or ChickpeasAdds plant-based protein and fiber

For a vegetarian version, use meatless crumbles and a dairy-free mayo in the sauce!

Serving and Pairing Ideas for Big Mac Salad

Big Mac Salad with keto fries and lemonade
A perfectly served Big Mac Salad with low-carb sides.

Now that your Big Mac Salad is ready, let’s talk about the best ways to serve and store it. Whether you’re making it for a quick lunch, meal prep, or a family dinner, there are plenty of delicious pairings and creative serving ideas to make it even more enjoyable.

Best Side Dishes to Serve with Big Mac Salad

Although this salad is satisfying on its own, pairing it with a low-carb side or a complementary dish can elevate your meal.

Side DishWhy It Works
Keto French Fries (Zucchini or Jicama Fries)A crispy, low-carb alternative to regular fries
Cheese CrispsCrunchy and full of flavor
Cabbage SlawA refreshing, tangy side
Avocado SlicesAdds creaminess and healthy fats
Roasted Brussels SproutsA hearty, flavorful veggie side

Want a true fast-food experience? Pair your salad with low-carb fries and a sugar-free lemonade!

How to Store Leftovers for Maximum Freshness

Since this salad contains fresh lettuce and sauce, proper storage is key to keeping it crispy and delicious.

Best Way to Store Leftovers:

  • Store ingredients separately: Keep the lettuce, beef, toppings, and Big Mac Sauce in different containers to prevent sogginess.
  • Use airtight containers: This helps keep ingredients fresh for up to 3 days.
  • Reheat the beef separately: Warm it up in a skillet or microwave before adding it to the salad.
  • Assemble just before eating: To avoid a wilted salad, wait until just before serving to mix everything together.

Meal Prep Tip: Pack everything in a mason jar or meal prep container for a quick and easy grab-and-go lunch!

Creative Ways to Repurpose Leftovers

If you have extra Big Mac Salad ingredients, you can transform them into new meals!

Big Mac Lettuce Wraps – Wrap the beef, cheese, and sauce in large lettuce leaves for a low-carb burger wrap.
Big Mac Bowl – Skip the lettuce and serve the ingredients over cauliflower rice for a heartier meal.
Stuffed Bell Peppers – Fill halved bell peppers with the leftover beef mixture and top with cheese, then bake.
Big Mac Quesadilla – Use low-carb tortillas to create a cheesy, Big Mac-inspired wrap.
Egg Scramble – Mix the beef and pickles into scrambled eggs for a protein-packed breakfast.

Don’t throw away extra sauce! It makes a great dip for veggies or a spread for sandwiches.

Why Hawaiians Love Mac Salad and How It Compares

Hawaiian Mac Salad is a staple in Hawaiian cuisine, often served as a side dish in plate lunches. While it may seem similar to a traditional American macaroni salad, there are key differences in flavor, texture, and preparation. Let’s dive into why Hawaiians love Mac Salad, how it differs from a Big Mac Salad, and how you can create a fusion recipe combining the two!

Cultural Significance of Mac Salad in Hawaii

Unlike the Big Mac Salad, which is a low-carb twist on a fast-food classic, Hawaiian Mac Salad has a long history in Hawaiian cuisine. It’s a comfort food that pairs well with dishes like teriyaki chicken, loco moco, and kalua pork.

Why Do Hawaiians Love Mac Salad?

Inspired by Japanese and American cuisines – Introduced by immigrants and adapted over time.
Creamy, simple, and satisfying – Made with elbow macaroni, mayo, vinegar, and grated onion for a smooth, tangy flavor.
Staple in plate lunches – A must-have side dish in Hawaiian BBQ and takeout meals.

Fun Fact: Traditional Hawaiian Mac Salad uses Best Foods or Hellmann’s mayonnaise for its rich, creamy texture.

Big Mac Salad vs. Hawaiian Mac Salad: Key Differences

While both salads are delicious, they have different ingredients and purposes.

FeatureBig Mac SaladHawaiian Mac Salad
BaseLettuceElbow macaroni
Main ProteinGround beefNo protein (served as a side)
DressingBig Mac SauceMayo-based dressing with vinegar
TextureCrunchyCreamy & soft
Flavor ProfileSavory, tangy, cheesyMild, slightly tangy, and creamy

Which one is healthier? Big Mac Salad is lower in carbs and higher in protein, while Hawaiian Mac Salad is richer and more indulgent.

Fusion Recipe: Combining the Best of Both Worlds

Want to combine Big Mac flavors with Hawaiian-style mac salad? Try this fusion version:

Big Mac Hawaiian Mac Salad Recipe

Cook 2 cups elbow macaroni and let cool.
Mix with Big Mac Sauce instead of traditional mac salad dressing.
Add diced pickles, shredded cheddar, and diced onions for a Big Mac touch.
Top with crumbled ground beef for extra protein.
Let it chill for an hour before serving for the best flavor.

Perfect for BBQs and potlucks—a fun twist on both Big Mac Salad and Hawaiian Mac Salad!

Nutritional Breakdown & Health Benefits of Big Mac Salad

The Big Mac Salad Recipe isn’t just delicious—it’s also a healthier alternative to a traditional Big Mac. By skipping the bun and processed ingredients, this salad provides better nutrition with fewer carbs while still delivering that signature fast-food taste.

In this section, we’ll analyze the nutritional profile of Big Mac Salad, compare it to a traditional Big Mac, and discuss how to make it even healthier.

Caloric Breakdown and Macronutrients

Here’s a side-by-side comparison of a McDonald’s Big Mac vs. a homemade Big Mac Salad:

NutrientMcDonald’s Big Mac (with bun)Big Mac Salad (without bun)
Calories563 kcal~380 kcal
Carbs45g~8g
Protein25g30g
Fats33g28g
Sugar9g~2g
Fiber3g4g

Why is Big Mac Salad healthier?
Lower in carbs – No bun = fewer refined carbs
Higher in protein – More satiating and muscle-friendly
More fiber – Helps with digestion and satiety
Less sugar – No high-fructose corn syrup from the bun or sauce

Pro Tip: To keep the calorie count lower, reduce the cheese and use leaner ground beef (90/10 or turkey).

Health Benefits of a Lettuce-Based Burger Alternative

Switching from a traditional Big Mac to a Big Mac Salad has several health benefits:

Supports Weight Loss – Lower in calories and carbs, making it great for keto, low-carb, and calorie-conscious diets.
High in Protein – Keeps you full longer and helps with muscle maintenance.
Better for Blood Sugar – Lower glycemic index = less impact on blood sugar levels.
More Nutrient-Dense – Includes fresh veggies, fiber, and protein without processed additives.

Want even more fiber? Add shredded purple cabbage or extra leafy greens for a nutrient boost!

How to Make It Even Healthier

Want to optimize your Big Mac Salad even further? Here are some easy swaps:

Swap ThisFor ThisWhy?
80/20 ground beefLean ground beef or turkeyReduces fat while keeping protein high
Regular mayoGreek yogurt or avocado mayoLowers calories & adds healthy fats
Cheddar cheeseDairy-free cheese or nutritional yeastVegan-friendly & lower in fat
Iceberg lettuceSpinach or kaleMore vitamins & minerals

For a dairy-free version: Use coconut yogurt in the sauce and omit the cheese!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Before we wrap up this Big Mac Salad Recipe, let’s go over some common questions people ask about Big Mac Sauce, ingredients, and why Hawaiian Mac Salad is so popular.

Is Big Mac Sauce Just Thousand Island Dressing?

No, Big Mac Sauce is not the same as Thousand Island dressing, though they share some ingredients. While Thousand Island dressing contains ketchup and often has a sweeter taste, Big Mac Sauce has a more balanced tangy and savory profile due to the addition of yellow mustard, white vinegar, and paprika. If you only have Thousand Island dressing on hand, you can modify it to taste more like Big Mac Sauce by adding mustard and vinegar to cut down on the sweetness.

What Is the Special Sauce on a Big Mac Made Of?

The special sauce used in a Big Mac is a creamy, tangy, and slightly sweet dressing that combines mayonnaise, dill pickle relish, yellow mustard, white vinegar, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder. These ingredients work together to create the signature Big Mac flavor. Many assume it’s just Thousand Island dressing, but the absence of ketchup and the use of mustard make it quite different.

What Kind of Pickle Is on a Big Mac?

Big Macs use thinly sliced dill pickles, which provide the perfect balance of tanginess and saltiness. These pickles add a crunchy texture and a subtle tartness that enhances the flavors of the burger. For the most authentic Big Mac Salad, it’s best to use dill pickles rather than sweet or bread-and-butter varieties, as those tend to have a sweeter taste.

Why Do Hawaiians Love Mac Salad?

Hawaiian Mac Salad is a staple in Hawaiian cuisine, often served as part of a plate lunch alongside rice and grilled meats. Its popularity stems from its mild, creamy flavor, which balances out the bold, savory flavors of Hawaiian BBQ dishes. Unlike traditional American macaroni salad, Hawaiian Mac Salad is typically made with elbow macaroni, mayonnaise, vinegar, and grated onion, giving it a smooth, tangy, and slightly sweet taste. Many locals see it as a comforting, nostalgic dish that has been enjoyed for generations.

Conclusion

The Big Mac Salad Recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy the classic Big Mac flavors without the extra carbs and processed ingredients. Whether you’re following a keto, low-carb, or gluten-free diet, this salad is a satisfying and delicious alternative.

By using seasoned ground beef, crisp lettuce, shredded cheese, diced onions, pickles, and homemade Big Mac Sauce, you can recreate the fast-food experience in a healthier, homemade way. Plus, with endless customization options, you can make it fit your dietary needs and personal taste preferences.

Looking for more healthy and delicious recipes? Don’t miss our Hawaiian Beef Stew Recipe or check out this Burger Bowl Recipe for another tasty low-carb option!

Fresh Big Mac Salad with homemade special sauce

Big Mac Salad Recipe (Keto & Low-Carb)

If you love the taste of a Big Mac but want a healthier, low-carb alternative, this Big Mac Salad is for you! Packed with seasoned ground beef, crisp lettuce, shredded cheese, pickles, onions, and a creamy homemade Big Mac sauce, this keto-friendly, gluten-free dish delivers all the flavor without the bun. Perfect for meal prep or a quick, satisfying dinner.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Course Main Course, Salad
Cuisine American
Servings 1
Calories 380 kcal

Equipment

  • Large Skillet – For cooking the seasoned ground beef
  • Spatula – To break apart and stir the beef while cooking
  • Mixing Bowls – For preparing the Big Mac Sauce and assembling the salad
  • Cutting Board & Knife – To chop lettuce, dice onions, and slice pickles
  • Measuring Cups & Spoons – For precise ingredient measurements
  • Grater or Shredder – To freshly shred the cheddar cheese (optional)
  • Serving Bowls – To plate and serve the salad

Ingredients
  

  • For the Salad Base:
  • 1 lb ground beef 80/20 blend
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • ½ tsp garlic powder
  • ½ tsp onion powder
  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tbsp yellow mustard
  • 1 head iceberg lettuce chopped
  • ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • ¼ cup diced white onion
  • ½ cup sliced dill pickles
  • 1 tbsp sesame seeds optional, for garnish
  • For the Big Mac Sauce:
  • ½ cup mayonnaise
  • 2 tbsp dill pickle relish
  • 1 tbsp yellow mustard
  • 1 tsp white vinegar
  • ½ tsp paprika
  • ½ tsp garlic powder
  • ½ tsp onion powder

Instructions
 

  • Prepare the Lettuce & Vegetables
  • Wash and chop the iceberg lettuce into bite-sized pieces.
  • Dice the white onion and slice the dill pickles.
  • Shred the cheddar cheese.
  • Cook the Ground Beef
  • Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  • Add the ground beef, breaking it up as it cooks.
  • Season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
  • Stir in Worcestershire sauce and mustard.
  • Cook for 6-8 minutes until browned. Drain excess grease and set aside.
  • Make the Big Mac Sauce
  • In a small bowl, mix mayonnaise, dill pickle relish, mustard, vinegar, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder.
  • Stir well until smooth. Let it sit for 10-15 minutes for the flavors to blend.
  • Assemble the Salad
  • In a large bowl, start with a bed of chopped lettuce.
  • Add the cooked ground beef on top.
  • Sprinkle with shredded cheddar, diced onions, and sliced pickles.
  • Drizzle with Big Mac Sauce.
  • Garnish with sesame seeds (optional).
  • Serve & Enjoy!

Notes

Meal Prep Tip: Store lettuce, beef, and sauce separately for the freshest leftovers.
Low-Carb Swap: Use sugar-free relish for a completely keto-friendly version.
Vegetarian Option: Substitute ground beef with plant-based crumbles.
Make It Spicy: Add a dash of hot sauce to the Big Mac Sauce for an extra kick!
Keyword Big Mac Salad Recipe, Healthy Big Mac Alternative, Keto Big Mac Salad, Low Carb Big Mac Salad

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