Name: Big Mac Salad
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb lean ground beef; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 1 tsp onion powder; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 head iceberg lettuce, chopped; 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded; 1/2 cup dill pickles, diced; 1/4 cup red onion, diced; 1/2 cup Thousand Island dressing (or homemade special sauce)

Why You’ll Love Big Mac Salad Recipe

This salad gives you the crave‑worthy taste of a Big Mac packed into every forkful without the bread. It’s loaded with juicy seasoned beef, crunchy veggies and a creamy dressing that brings everything together, making it ideal for people who want classic burger flavor with a lighter twist.

Ingredients

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

1 pound ground beef
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
1½ teaspoons Montreal steak seasoning (optional but adds extra flavor)
1 head iceberg lettuce, chopped (about 6 cups)
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
½ cup dill pickles, sliced
½ cup diced red onion
1 cup grape tomatoes, halved
1 tablespoon sesame seeds (for a “bun” vibe)
¾ cup Thousand Island salad dressing or Big Mac‑style sauce

Directions

Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef, salt, black pepper and steak seasoning. Cook until the beef is browned and cooked through, breaking it up as it cooks. Drain excess grease and let the meat cool slightly.
In a large bowl, layer the chopped iceberg lettuce, shredded cheddar cheese, sliced pickles, diced red onion and grape tomatoes.
Add the cooked ground beef on top of the salad ingredients.
Drizzle the Thousand Island dressing (or your favorite creamy dressing) over the salad.
Toss gently to combine and sprinkle with sesame seeds for that signature touch. Serve immediately.

Servings and timing

Servings: About 6 servings
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 10 minutes
Total time: ~25 minutes

Variations

Spicy Big Mac Salad: Add diced pickled jalapeños or a drizzle of sriracha to the dressing for heat.
Turkey or Chicken Version: Swap the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter protein option.
Chipotle Ranch Twist: Replace Thousand Island with chipotle ranch dressing for a smoky twist.
Extra Veggies: Add cucumbers or shredded carrots for more crunch and color.

Storage/Reheating

Refrigerator: Store leftover salad in an airtight container for up to 2 days. To keep the lettuce crisp, store the dressing separately until ready to serve.
Reheating: If you prefer warm beef, reheat the cooked ground beef in the microwave or skillet before adding it to freshly prepared salad greens.

FAQs

What dressing should I use for Big Mac Salad?

You can use Thousand Island dressing or a creamy Big Mac‑style sauce to replicate the classic burger flavor.

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes — cook the beef and chop the veggies in advance, then assemble just before eating to keep everything fresh.

Is this salad low carb?

Yes, this salad is naturally low in carbohydrates, especially if you use low‑sugar dressing.

Can I use a different lettuce?

Absolutely! Romaine or mixed greens are great alternatives if you prefer more texture or nutrition.

How do I make it vegetarian?

Replace the ground beef with plant‑based crumbles or cooked lentils for a vegetarian version.

Can I add bacon?

Yes, crispy bacon bits make a delicious addition for extra flavor and crunch.

Can I serve this as a meal prep lunch?

Yes, store components separately (lettuce, toppings, dressing) and assemble before eating for the best texture.

What cheese works best?

Shredded cheddar is classic, but Colby Jack or pepper jack add great flavor too.

Can I make my own Big Mac sauce?

Yes — a blend of mayo, ketchup, mustard and relish mimics Big Mac sauce well.

Is sesame seed garnish necessary?

It’s optional, but sesame seeds add a fun nod to the classic Big Mac bun.

Conclusion

Big Mac Salad is a delicious, satisfying way to enjoy all the nostalgic flavors of a Big Mac without the bun. With simple ingredients, quick prep and plenty of customization options, it’s a go‑to for easy weeknight dinners or meal prep. Whether you’re craving burger flavor or just looking for a fun salad twist, this recipe delivers.