Big Mac Salad Bowl

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A Big Mac Salad Bowl is the perfect way to enjoy all the bold, nostalgic flavors of your favorite fast-food burger in a lighter, low-carb form. This salad layers crisp lettuce, seasoned ground beef, shredded cheese, pickles, onions, and a creamy special sauce over a bed of greens for a satisfying and flavorful meal.

Each bite of this salad brings you that tangy, savory Big Mac experience but with a freshness and crunch that feels wholesome and filling. Whether you’re following a keto lifestyle or just want a fun twist on dinner, this recipe is a total crowd-pleaser.

Why You’ll Love This Big Mac Salad Bowl

This salad combines the ease of a weeknight dinner with the joy of indulging in your favorite comfort food. It’s ready in about 20 minutes, requires just one skillet for cooking the beef, and is customizable with your favorite burger toppings. Plus, it’s naturally gluten-free and a fantastic way to sneak more vegetables into your day.

Do I Really Need the Special Sauce?

Absolutely. The creamy, tangy sauce is what ties this dish together and makes it taste just like the real thing. You can whip it up in minutes with pantry staples like mayo, ketchup, mustard, and relish. Leaving it out would make it just another taco salad — and we’re aiming for Big Mac magic here.

Ingredients for the Big Mac Salad Bowl

Ground beef forms the hearty base of this salad, bringing that familiar savory bite to every forkful. Crisp iceberg lettuce adds the perfect refreshing crunch that’s essential for a Big Mac vibe. Shredded cheddar cheese brings creamy, salty richness that melts slightly on the warm beef. Pickles add the tang and pop of acidity that balance the richness beautifully. Finely diced onions lend a sweet sharpness and a little bite to the overall flavor. And of course, the special sauce — creamy, zesty, and just a little sweet — ties it all together for an authentic Big Mac experience.

How To Make the Big Mac Salad Bowl

Step 1: Cook the Beef

In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned and no longer pink, breaking it into crumbles as it cooks. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 2: Prepare the Special Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, ketchup, yellow mustard, sweet pickle relish, a dash of white vinegar, and a pinch of paprika until smooth. Set aside.

Step 3: Assemble the Salad Base

On a large platter or individual bowls, layer the chopped iceberg lettuce as your base.

Step 4: Add the Toppings

Sprinkle the warm cooked beef evenly over the lettuce. Scatter shredded cheddar cheese, diced pickles, and onions over the top.

Step 5: Drizzle the Sauce

Generously drizzle the special sauce over the salad or serve it on the side for dipping. Serve immediately and enjoy!

How to Serve and Store the Big Mac Salad Bowl

This Big Mac Salad Bowl serves about four people as a main dish, making it perfect for a family meal or casual get-together. Serve it fresh and warm right after assembling so the beef is still juicy and the cheese is slightly melty. If you’re making it ahead, keep the components separate and assemble just before serving to maintain the best texture.

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days, though the lettuce may lose some of its crispness. Store the special sauce separately and drizzle just before eating for the freshest result.

What to Serve With the Big Mac Salad Bowl?

French Fries or Sweet Potato Fries

Pair with crispy baked fries to lean into that classic burger meal feel.

Onion Rings

Golden and crunchy onion rings complement the flavors beautifully.

Garlic Breadsticks

Warm breadsticks are perfect for soaking up any extra sauce.

Coleslaw

A tangy, creamy slaw makes a refreshing contrast to the richness of the beef and cheese.

Tomato Soup

A simple bowl of tomato soup on the side adds warmth and depth.

Dill Pickle Spears

Extra pickles are always welcome for pickle lovers.

Sparkling Lemonade

Bright and bubbly lemonade cuts through the richness for a refreshing sip between bites.

Want More Salad Ideas?

If you love this Big Mac Salad Bowl, here are a few more fresh and creative salads to try next:

• Classic Caprese Salad Recipe for a bright, summery plate of tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil.
• Herby Chicken Meatball Bowl with fresh greens and tender chicken meatballs.
• Buffalo Chicken Cottage Cheese Bowl for a spicy, creamy twist on a high-protein salad.
• Creamy Tomato Spinach Pasta if you’re craving something warm and comforting alongside your greens.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you double up on pickles? Use romaine instead of iceberg? I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too — let’s help each other cook smarter.

Explore beautifully curated health-boosting salads and more on Janet Dishes on Pinterest and discover your next favorite meal!

Conclusion

This Big Mac Salad Bowl is proof that you don’t need a drive-thru to enjoy those iconic flavors you crave. With simple ingredients and a quick prep, you can have a healthy, satisfying dinner that hits all the right notes — tangy, savory, crunchy, and fresh. Make it tonight and enjoy the best of both worlds: comfort food and nutritious salad in one irresistible bowl.

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