Big Mac Salad: Classic Flavor, No Bun Needed (Print Version)
Enjoy Big Mac flavor in a healthy, easy-to-make salad. This deconstructed classic delivers all the iconic taste without the bun, perfect for a quick meal.
# Recipe Info:
Prep Time: 15 Minutes minutes
Cook Time: 10 Minutes minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4 Servings
Difficulty: Beginner
Cuisine: American
Dietary: Gluten-Free
# Ingredients:
→ Crisp Salad Foundation
01 -
1 head iceberg lettuce, chopped
02 -
1/2 red onion, finely diced
→ Savory Beefy Core
03 -
1 lb lean ground beef (90/10)
04 -
1/2 tsp salt
05 -
1/4 tsp black pepper
→ Signature Tangy Dressing
06 -
1/2 cup mayonnaise
07 -
2 tbsp ketchup
08 -
1 tbsp yellow mustard
09 -
2 tbsp dill pickle relish
10 -
1 tsp white vinegar
11 -
1/2 tsp onion powder
12 -
1/4 tsp garlic powder
13 -
1/4 tsp paprika
14 -
1/2 tsp erythritol (or pinch of sugar)
→ Classic Toppings & Crunch
15 -
1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
16 -
1/2 cup dill pickle slices, chopped
17 -
1 tbsp toasted sesame seeds, for garnish
# Instructions:
01 -
In a small bowl, combine 1/2 cup mayonnaise, 2 tbsp ketchup, 1 tbsp yellow mustard, 2 tbsp dill pickle relish, 1 tsp white vinegar, 1/2 tsp onion powder, 1/4 tsp garlic powder, 1/4 tsp paprika, and 1/2 tsp erythritol (or pinch of sugar). Whisk until smooth and set aside. This signature dressing is crucial for your Big Mac Salad: All the Flavor, None of the Bun.
02 -
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add 1 lb lean ground beef (90/10) and cook for 8-10 minutes, breaking it apart, until browned and cooked through. Drain any excess fat. Season the beef with 1/2 tsp salt and 1/4 tsp black pepper, then set aside.
03 -
In a large salad bowl, combine 1 head iceberg lettuce, chopped, and 1/2 red onion, finely diced. This crisp salad foundation provides the perfect bed for the hearty components of your Big Mac Salad: All the Flavor, None of the Bun.
04 -
Add the cooked and seasoned ground beef to the salad bowl with the lettuce and red onion. Sprinkle 1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese and 1/2 cup dill pickle slices, chopped, over the beef and greens, distributing them evenly.
05 -
Pour the prepared Signature Tangy Dressing over the assembled salad ingredients. Gently toss everything together until all components are evenly coated with the dressing. Ensure every bite of your Big Mac Salad: All the Flavor, None of the Bun is bursting with flavor.
06 -
Divide the Big Mac Salad: All the Flavor, None of the Bun among four plates or bowls. Garnish each serving with 1 tbsp toasted sesame seeds for that classic Big Mac finish. Serve immediately and enjoy this satisfying meal.
# Notes:
01 -
For the best flavor, prepare the Signature Tangy Dressing at least 30 minutes ahead of time and chill it in the refrigerator to allow the flavors to meld and deepen.
02 -
Leftover Big Mac Salad components can be stored separately in airtight containers for up to 2-3 days. Dress just before serving to prevent the lettuce from wilting.
03 -
Feel free to substitute the lean ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option, or use a different cheese like Colby Jack or a dairy-free alternative.
04 -
Enhance the crunch by adding a handful of crushed potato chips or keto-friendly croutons just before serving. A side of sweet potato fries would also complement this dish beautifully.
# Tools You'll Need:
01 -
Large mixing bowl
02 -
Skillet
03 -
Whisk
04 -
Cutting board
05 -
Knife
06 -
Measuring cups
07 -
Measuring spoons
# Nutrition Facts (Per Serving):
Calories: 560 kcal
Total Fat: 43 g
Total Carbohydrate: 9 g
Protein: 33 g