Big Mac Salad

Looking for a salad that delivers all the juicy, tangy, and crave-worthy flavors of your favorite burger—without the drive-thru guilt? This Big Mac Salad is absolutely dreamy: think savory ground beef, crunchy lettuce, melty cheddar, zesty pickles, and a creamy, homemade "special sauce" that tastes just like the fast food icon.

Every bite is bursting with bold, nostalgic flavor, but it’s lighter, fresher, and comes together in just 30 minutes. It’s the perfect quick weeknight dinner or crowd-pleasing potluck dish that’ll have everyone going back for seconds.

Inspired by classic American flavors and made in my own kitchen, this Big Mac Salad has quickly become a family favorite—no bun (or drive-thru) required!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

• All the Big Mac flavor—none of the bun!
• Super quick and easy for busy weeknights
• Loaded with protein and low in carbs
• Crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for gatherings or meal prep

Key Ingredients for Big Mac Salad

See recipe card below for full list of measurements, ingredients, and instructions.

Lean Ground Beef

This hearty protein is the star of the show, delivering that signature savory bite you love in a classic Big Mac. Opt for 90% lean beef for a lighter option that still packs plenty of flavor. You can also substitute with ground turkey or plant-based crumbles for different dietary needs, but be sure to season well for the best taste.

Romaine Lettuce

Romaine gives the salad a crisp, refreshing crunch that holds up well under the warm beef and creamy dressing. Chop it into bite-sized pieces for easy eating. Iceberg lettuce is a classic Big Mac choice and works beautifully too.

Cheddar Cheese

Shredded sharp cheddar adds creamy, melty richness to every bite. For extra authenticity, use American cheese, or try a dairy-free alternative for a vegan twist.

Dill Pickles

Tangy, crunchy dill pickles provide that unmistakable burger zing and cut through the richness of the beef and cheese. Use sliced pickles or chopped spears, and try bread-and-butter pickles for a sweeter note if you prefer.

Big Mac "Special Sauce" Dressing

This creamy, tangy dressing is what brings the whole salad together! It’s made from mayonnaise, ketchup, pickle relish, and a hint of vinegar and mustard. Feel free to adjust the ratios to taste, or use a light mayo for fewer calories.

Instructions for Big Mac Salad

See recipe card below for full list of measurements, ingredients, and instructions.

Brown the Beef

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef, breaking it up with a spatula. Season with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Cook until browned and cooked through—about 6-8 minutes. Drain any excess fat and set aside to cool slightly.

Make the Special Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, ketchup, pickle relish, yellow mustard, white vinegar, paprika, and garlic powder. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. For a lighter option, use light mayonnaise or Greek yogurt.

Prep the Veggies

While the beef cools, chop the romaine lettuce, halve the cherry tomatoes, and slice the pickles and red onion. If using, shred or julienne the carrots. Lay out all your salad fixings for easy assembly.

Assemble the Salad

In a large bowl or on a platter, layer the romaine lettuce, beef, cherry tomatoes, cheddar cheese, pickles, red onion, and carrots. Drizzle generously with the special sauce dressing.

Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle sesame seeds on top for that classic burger bun vibe. Toss gently to coat everything in dressing, or serve with the dressing on the side for dipping. Enjoy right away!

Recipe Variations

Go Low-Carb or Keto

Skip the carrots and use a sugar-free ketchup and mayo in your special sauce to keep your salad extra low in carbs—perfect for keto meal plans. You can also check out this comprehensive keto salad guide for more ideas.

Make It Vegetarian

Swap the ground beef for a plant-based meat alternative or cooked lentils. Just season well for that signature burger flavor—smoked paprika or a dash of soy sauce works wonders!

Add More Crunch

Toss in chopped iceberg lettuce, shredded cabbage, or even some roasted sunflower seeds for extra bite and texture.

Spice It Up

Add sliced jalapeños or a squirt of sriracha to the dressing for a little heat. You can also stir in a dash of hot sauce to the beef while cooking.

Lighten Things Up

Substitute Greek yogurt for some or all of the mayonnaise in the dressing for a tangier, lighter touch that still tastes creamy and delicious. For more healthy swaps, check out Healthy Salad Dressings.

Serving Suggestions

Make it a meal by serving your Big Mac Salad with a side of oven-baked fries or sweet potato wedges, and a tall glass of iced tea. Garnish each bowl with extra sesame seeds, more pickles, or a sprinkle of green onions for fresh flavor. For a picnic vibe, pair with classic coleslaw or a tangy cucumber salad.

Storage and Reheating

Store leftover salad and dressing separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. Keep the beef and veggies chilled, and only add dressing when ready to serve to prevent sogginess. To reheat, warm the beef in the microwave for 30-60 seconds, then build your salad fresh. Freezing is not recommended, as the vegetables will lose their texture.

Frequently Asked Questions About Big Mac Salad (FAQ)

Q: Can I meal prep Big Mac Salad ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! Cook the beef and prep the veggies and dressing in advance. Store each component separately, then assemble just before eating for best flavor and texture.

Q: Is Big Mac Salad gluten-free?
A: Yes, as long as you use gluten-free condiments (double-check your ketchup, mustard, and relish), this salad is naturally gluten-free.

Q: Can I make the special sauce healthier?
A: Yes! Use light mayo or Greek yogurt in place of regular mayo, and opt for low-sugar ketchup to lighten up the dressing without sacrificing flavor.

This Big Mac Salad is everything you love about the classic burger—crave-worthy, satisfying, and so easy to make at home. Give it a try, and let me know how you like it in the comments below! Don’t forget to leave a rating and share your own creative variations so everyone can enjoy this fun, delicious twist.