Healthy Big Mac Salad

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

The Big Mac Salad gives you all the indulgence of a Big Mac without the bun and extra calories. The seasoned beef brings the savory flavor, while the fresh veggies offer a nice crunch. The creamy dressing ties everything together perfectly, making this salad both filling and flavorful. It's quick to prepare, perfect for meal prep, and will definitely satisfy your Big Mac cravings in a lighter, healthier way!

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

• 1 tablespoon garlic powder

• 1 tablespoon onion powder

• 1 teaspoon salt

• 1 teaspoon black pepper

• 8 cups iceberg lettuce, chopped

• ½ cup red onion, thinly sliced

• ½ cup pickles, chopped

• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

• ¼ cup sesame seeds (optional)

For the Dressing:

• ½ cup mayonnaise

• 2 tablespoon Dijon mustard

• 2 tablespoon ketchup

• 1 tablespoon white vinegar

• ½ teaspoon garlic powder

• ¼ teaspoon salt

• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

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

Directions

1. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and fully cooked (about 7-10 minutes). Drain any excess fat.

2. Stir in Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Cook for another 2 minutes to allow the spices to blend into the beef. Remove from heat and set aside.

3. In a large bowl, combine chopped lettuce, red onion, pickles, and shredded cheddar cheese.

4. In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, ketchup, white vinegar, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper to make the dressing.

5. To assemble, add the cooked beef mixture to the salad and toss to combine. Drizzle with the dressing and mix well.

6. Top with sesame seeds if desired and serve immediately.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4-6 people and takes about 25 minutes to prepare.

Variations

• Make it vegetarian: Use a plant-based ground beef substitute or even chickpeas for a vegetarian option.

• Add extra veggies: If you want more veggies, try adding shredded carrots, cucumbers, or bell peppers.

Storage/Reheating

Store any leftover Big Mac Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. The salad may soften a little over time, but the flavors will continue to develop. It’s best to store the dressing separately and drizzle it on just before serving to keep the lettuce fresh. To reheat the beef, simply microwave it until warmed through or warm it in a skillet.

FAQs

1. Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the beef and dressing ahead of time and store them separately in the fridge. Assemble the salad just before serving.

2. Is this salad keto-friendly?

Yes, this salad is low-carb and keto-friendly as it uses lettuce in place of a bun and doesn’t include any high-carb ingredients.

3. Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken would work well as a leaner alternative to beef.

4. How can I make this salad spicier?

To add some heat, try adding jalapeños or a few dashes of hot sauce to the salad or dressing.

6. Can I make the dressing without mayonnaise?

If you're not a fan of mayonnaise, you can use Greek yogurt or sour cream as a substitute for a tangy flavor.

7. Is this salad good for meal prep?

Yes, this salad can be great for meal prep! Just keep the dressing separate and add it right before eating.

8. What can I serve with this salad?

You could pair it with a side of roasted vegetables, a low-carb soup, or even some keto-friendly bread for a more filling meal.

9. Can I make this vegetarian?

Yes, substitute the ground beef with plant-based meat or even use chickpeas as a protein source to make it vegetarian.

10. How do I store leftovers?

Store the salad components (lettuce, beef, and toppings) separately in airtight containers. Keep the dressing in a separate container and combine everything when you're ready to eat.

Conclusion

This Big Mac Salad is a tasty, healthier alternative to the traditional Big Mac. With the same familiar flavors, you get a fresh, satisfying meal that's easy to make and customize to your liking. Whether you're following a keto diet, want a lighter version of your favorite fast food, or just need a quick and delicious dinner, this recipe is sure to hit the spot. Enjoy!