Big Mac Inspired Salad Bowl

Big Mac Salad brings all the iconic flavors of a classic burger in a bowl that is fresh and satisfying. With seasoned ground beef, crisp lettuce, tangy pickles, juicy tomatoes, and a creamy, tangy sauce, this recipe keeps things light, gluten-free, and simple for busy weeknights or meal prep. It delivers the nostalgia of fast food with a wholesome spin.

The first time I made this was to satisfy a late-night burger craving without the bun. Now it is my go-to salad for family cookouts and packed lunches since everyone gets to add their own toppings.

Ingredients

• Lean ground beef: brings savory richness and classic burger flavor. Choose high-quality beef for less grease and better taste
• Onion powder and garlic powder: add aromatic depth without the fuss of chopping fresh onions or garlic
• Salt and black pepper: season the beef perfectly every time
• Iceberg lettuce: is the original burger lettuce and keeps crunch even under the sauce. Go for a heavy, fresh head with no wilted leaves
• Tomatoes: add juiciness and a burst of color. Pick vibrant, firm tomatoes for best results
• Red onion: offers bite and a pop of purple. Thin slicing is key for balance
• Shredded cheddar cheese: delivers creaminess and gets slightly melty under warm meat. Sharp cheddar gives the most flavor
• Dill pickles: provide tang and that unmistakable burger zing. Use classic sandwich dills and slice them thick for bite
• Sesame seeds (optional): give that signature burger look and subtle crunch. Toast briefly for extra flavor
• For the special sauce
• Mayonnaise: forms the creamy base. Use full-fat for silkiness or lighter if preferred
• Ketchup plus yellow mustard: recreate the classic sweet-sour burger combo
• Sweet pickle relish: brings texture and a tangy twist
• White vinegar and paprika: add brightness and gentle spice
• Onion powder and garlic powder (for sauce): layer in more savory notes while a pinch of salt ties it together

Instructions

Cook the Beef:

In a large skillet over medium heat add the ground beef and stir in onion powder garlic powder salt and black pepper. Break the meat into crumbles and cook for about seven minutes until nicely browned with no pink remaining. Drain off any extra fat and let cool slightly to keep the lettuce crisp in the salad

Make the Special Sauce:

In a small mixing bowl whisk together mayonnaise ketchup yellow mustard sweet pickle relish white vinegar paprika onion powder garlic powder and a pinch of salt. Whisk until totally smooth and creamy. Chill until ready to use so the flavors come together

Prepare the Salad Base:

Chop the iceberg lettuce into bite-sized pieces removing any tough core. Dice the tomatoes and thinly slice the red onion. Slice the pickles. In a large salad bowl layer lettuce tomatoes onion cheddar cheese and pickles. This creates the perfect mix of flavors in every bite

Add the Beef:

Spoon the warm seasoned beef over the salad layers. Distribute evenly so every serving gets plenty

Drizzle and Toss:

Pour the special sauce generously over the top or serve it on the side for dipping and drizzling as you eat. Toss lightly so the greens stay crisp but everything is coated with sauce

Garnish and Serve:

Sprinkle sesame seeds across the top for that classic burger-shop touch. Serve right away while the beef is warm and the vegetables are fresh

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Once I caught my daughter sneaking extra sauce onto her plate so now I always make a little more. The tangy pickles and sharp cheddar remind me of summer barbecues growing up

Storage Tips

Big Mac Salad tastes best fresh but leftovers hold for up to two days in the fridge. Keep the beef and vegetables separate until ready to eat so everything stays crisp. Store the special sauce in a small covered container to keep it thick and creamy. I do not recommend freezing this salad because lettuce and fresh vegetables lose texture

Ingredient Substitutions

Try ground turkey chicken or plant-based meat for a lighter version that still brings flavor. Swap iceberg for romaine or mixed greens if that is what you have on hand. Dairy-free cheese or vegan mayo keeps things allergy friendly. For extra richness sliced avocado can replace some of the cheese and gives creaminess

Serving Suggestions

Serve as a main dish on busy nights or portion into mason jars for lunches to go. Pair with a cold iced tea or a simple side of potato wedges if you are craving something extra. At picnics set up a DIY salad bar so everyone can top their own bowl with extra pickles or jalapeños

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Big Mac Salad has a way of making even the busiest night feel a little more fun. I have brought it to potlucks more times than I can count because it disappears fast and someone always asks for the recipe. Try it once and you will see just how easy and craveable a burger in a bowl can be

Recipe Questions & Answers

→ Can I use turkey or chicken instead of beef?

Yes, ground turkey or chicken are excellent lean substitutes and will keep the flavors fresh and light.

→ What makes the special sauce distinctive?

The sauce blends mayonnaise, ketchup, mustard, relish, and spices, delivering a creamy, tangy accent to the salad.

→ Are there vegetarian options?

Plant-based ground meat alternatives work well, offering a delicious meatless twist while preserving the classic taste.

→ How should leftovers be stored?

Keep salad and beef separate in airtight containers in the fridge. Add the sauce just before serving for best texture.

→ Is this suitable for a gluten-free or low-carb diet?

Yes, this salad is both gluten-free and low-carb, relying on fresh vegetables and protein-rich beef without bread.