Description
This Big Mac Salad is a delicious, low-carb twist on the classic fast-food favorite, featuring seasoned ground beef, crisp iceberg lettuce, sharp cheddar cheese, pickles, onions, and a tangy Thousand Island dressing. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s perfect for a quick and satisfying meal that captures all the iconic flavors without the bun.
Ingredients
Scale
Salad Ingredients
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 4 cups chopped iceberg lettuce
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup sliced pickles
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onions
- 1 cup diced tomatoes
Dressing
- 1/2 cup Thousand Island dressing
Seasonings
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt to taste
- Black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the Ground Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked, breaking it apart as it cooks. Once browned, drain excess fat to keep the salad light.
- Season the Beef: Return the skillet to heat, sprinkle garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper over the cooked beef. Stir well for a minute until the spices are fragrant and evenly distributed.
- Prepare the Lettuce: While the beef cooks, chop the iceberg lettuce into bite-sized pieces and place them in a large mixing bowl to create the fresh base of your salad.
- Add Vegetables and Cheese: Add the diced tomatoes, sliced pickles, shredded cheddar cheese, and finely chopped onions to the bowl with lettuce. Gently toss to combine the ingredients.
- Dress the Salad: Drizzle the Thousand Island dressing over the mixed salad and toss again carefully until everything is well coated with the creamy dressing.
- Serve: Serve immediately on individual plates or in a family-style bowl to enjoy the Big Mac flavors in a fresh, healthy salad format.
Notes
- You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner protein option.
- Adjust seasoning to taste, especially salt and pepper.
- For a spicier kick, add a dash of hot sauce or chili flakes to the beef.
- Use low-fat or light Thousand Island dressing to reduce calories further.
- Keep the salad chilled until serving for best freshness.
