Big Mac Salad – Cheeseburger Salad

Why You’ll Love Big Mac Salad – Cheeseburger Salad Recipe

This salad is perfect for when you’re craving a cheeseburger but want something lighter and more nutritious. It’s quick to make, customizable to your taste, and ideal for meal prep. You still get all the savory, tangy, cheesy flavors you love, but with fresh vegetables and fewer carbs.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Ground beef

• Salt and pepper

• Garlic powder

• Onion powder

• Iceberg or romaine lettuce, chopped

• Cheddar cheese, shredded or cubed

• Dill pickles, chopped

• Red onion, diced

• Cherry tomatoes, halved (optional)

• Sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)

For the dressing (special sauce):

• Mayonnaise

• Ketchup

• Yellow mustard

• Pickle relish

• White vinegar

• Paprika

Directions

1. In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Drain excess fat and set aside.

2. In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, ketchup, mustard, relish, vinegar, and paprika to make the dressing. Adjust seasoning to taste.

3. Arrange chopped lettuce in a large salad bowl or individual serving bowls.

4. Top with cooked ground beef, cheese, pickles, red onion, and cherry tomatoes if using.

5. Drizzle with the special sauce dressing and toss lightly.

6. Garnish with sesame seeds for a “burger bun” touch, if desired. Serve immediately.

Servings and timing

Serves 4.
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 10 minutes
Total time: 20 minutes

Variations

• Low-Fat Option: Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef.

• Spicy Kick: Add hot sauce or cayenne pepper to the dressing.

• Bacon Lovers: Top with crispy bacon bits for extra flavor.

• Cheese Swap: Try American cheese, pepper jack, or Swiss.

• Dressing Lightened Up: Use Greek yogurt in place of some mayonnaise.

Storage/Reheating

Store components separately for best freshness. Cooked beef can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated before serving. The dressing can be kept in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. Assemble the salad just before eating.

FAQs

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, just keep the ingredients separate and assemble when ready to serve.

What lettuce works best?

Iceberg or romaine lettuce provide the crisp texture most similar to a burger.

Can I make it vegetarian?

Yes, swap the ground beef for a plant-based ground meat alternative.

Is this salad keto-friendly?

Yes, as long as you use sugar-free ketchup and relish.

Can I use shredded lettuce?

Yes, shredded lettuce works well for a more “burger-like” feel.

Can I prepare the dressing in advance?

Absolutely, it even tastes better after chilling for a few hours.

How do I make it dairy-free?

Omit the cheese or use a dairy-free cheese substitute.

Can I serve it warm?

Yes, serve the beef warm over the cold salad for contrast.

Can I use leftover burgers?

Yes, chop up leftover burger patties and use them in place of ground beef.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, simply scale up the ingredients for larger gatherings.

Conclusion

Big Mac salad is a fresh, satisfying way to enjoy the flavors of a cheeseburger without the bun. With seasoned beef, crisp veggies, melty cheese, and tangy dressing, it’s quick, customizable, and perfect for a low-carb meal that doesn’t compromise on taste.