Lorenzo Devereaux
Craving the iconic flavors of a Big Mac but want something lighter and fresher? The Big Mac Salad Bowl delivers all the bold, tangy, and cheesy goodness you love—minus the bun. Packed with crisp lettuce, juicy tomatoes, creamy pickles, and that irresistible seasoned beef, this salad is a game-changer for burger fans looking to keep things low-carb.
Every bite is loaded with texture: crunchy cucumbers, sharp cheddar, and a drizzle of creamy special sauce that ties everything together. Whether you’re meal-prepping for the week or making a quick dinner, this Big Mac Salad will satisfy your fast-food cravings in the healthiest way possible.
What Kind of Ground Beef Should I Use?
The best choice for this salad is lean ground beef, around 85/15, which balances flavor and juiciness without being too greasy. For an even healthier option, ground turkey or chicken works too, but the beef truly gives that authentic Big Mac taste.
Ingredients for the Big Mac Salad Bowl
- Ground Beef – The star of the dish, seasoned to mimic that classic burger flavor.
- Romaine or Iceberg Lettuce – Crisp and refreshing, it forms the perfect base.
- Cherry Tomatoes – Juicy bursts of sweetness to balance the savory beef.
- Red Onion – Adds a sharp crunch and tangy bite.
- Cheddar Cheese – Gives that signature cheesy richness.
- Dill Pickles – Essential for that Big Mac tangy kick.
- Cucumbers – Refreshing crunch that lightens every bite.
- Special Sauce (Big Mac-style) – A creamy, tangy dressing that ties everything together.
- Fresh Parsley – Optional but adds a pop of color and freshness.
How To Make the Big Mac Salad Bowl
Step 1: Cook the Beef to Perfection
In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned and crumbly. Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of garlic powder. Drain any excess fat to keep the salad light.
Step 2: Chop and Prep the Veggies
While the beef cooks, chop the lettuce, slice the cucumbers, halve the cherry tomatoes, and dice the red onion. Keep everything bite-sized for easy eating.
Step 3: Make the Special Sauce
Whisk together mayonnaise, ketchup, yellow mustard, finely chopped pickles, and a dash of paprika. This creamy sauce is what gives the salad its signature Big Mac flavor.
Step 4: Assemble the Salad
Start with a bed of lettuce, then layer cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, onions, and pickles. Pile the seasoned beef on top.
Step 5: Add Cheese and Sauce
Sprinkle shredded cheddar generously, then drizzle the special sauce over everything. Add a bit of chopped parsley if you like.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Toss lightly or serve layered, just like a deconstructed burger. Best enjoyed fresh while the beef is still warm.
Serving and Storing the Big Mac Salad Bowl
This salad is best served immediately while the beef is warm and the veggies stay crisp. If making ahead, store the beef, sauce, and vegetables separately to keep them fresh. Combine just before eating for the best texture.
Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 2 days, but keep the dressing in a separate container to prevent sogginess.
What to Serve With Big Mac Salad Bowl?
1. Garlic Parmesan Fries
A healthier baked version pairs perfectly with this burger-inspired salad.
2. Roasted Parmesan Green Beans
Crunchy and cheesy, they balance the richness of the beef.
3. Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Tenders
For an extra dose of protein, these are a fun side.
4. Cheesy Loaded Beef Fries
Because why not go all-in on the comfort food vibe?
5. Roasted Butternut Squash with Cranberries
Adds a sweet and savory twist that complements the tangy sauce.
6. Easy Homemade Naan Bread
Perfect for scooping up any extra sauce.
7. Classic Bangers and Mash
If you want a heartier meal, this pairs surprisingly well.
Want More Salad Bowl Ideas?
If you’re loving this Big Mac Salad Bowl, you’ll definitely want to try these other flavor-packed options:
- The Ultimate Italian Grinder Salad for a deli-inspired twist.
- Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl for a Mexican-style comfort bowl.
- Chimichurri Grilled Chicken Bowl with Garlic Sauce for a fresh, herby bite.
- Chipotle Chicken Bowl with Black Beans and Sweet Potatoes for smoky, bold flavors.
- Korean BBQ Beef Bowl with Corn Creamy Sauce if you love sweet and savory combos.
Save This Pin For Later
📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest healthy meals board so you can come back to it anytime.
And let me know in the comments how yours turned out—did you stick with the classic beef, or try ground turkey? Did you tweak the sauce to make it spicier?
I love seeing how you make these recipes your own. Questions are welcome too—let’s swap tips and make cooking fun!
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Big Mac Salad Bowl
Equipment
- Skillet
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 225 g ground beef
- 4 cups chopped romaine or iceberg lettuce
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 0.25 cup diced red onion
- 0.5 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 0.25 cup sliced dill pickles
- 0.5 cup sliced cucumbers
- 0.25 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp ketchup
- 1 tbsp yellow mustard
- 2 tbsp finely chopped pickles
- 0.25 tsp paprika
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions
- Cook ground beef in a skillet until browned, season, and drain excess fat.
- Chop lettuce, slice cucumbers, halve cherry tomatoes, and dice onion.
- Mix mayonnaise, ketchup, mustard, chopped pickles, and paprika to make sauce.
- Layer lettuce, cucumbers, tomatoes, onions, and pickles. Top with beef.
- Sprinkle cheddar and drizzle sauce. Garnish with parsley.