Big Mac Salad
Enjoy all the iconic flavors of a Big Mac—without the bun! This low-carb, high-protein salad combines seasoned ground beef, crisp lettuce, tangy pickles, and a creamy homemade burger sauce. Perfect for keto or balanced eating.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef 80/20 preferred for flavor
- 1 head iceberg lettuce chopped
- ½ cup dill pickles chopped
- ½ cup onions diced
- ½ cup cherry tomatoes optional, halved
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds for garnish
- ½ cup mayonnaise for sauce
- 2 tablespoons sugar-free ketchup for sauce
- 1 teaspoon mustard for sauce
- 1 tablespoon white vinegar for sauce
- 2 tablespoons dill pickles finely chopped, for sauce
- ¼ teaspoon onion powder for sauce
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder for beef
- ¼ teaspoon onion powder for beef
- salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder until browned. Drain excess fat.
- In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, ketchup, mustard, vinegar, chopped pickles, and onion powder to make the burger sauce. Set aside.
- Chop the lettuce and prep the vegetables: dice onions, chop pickles, and halve cherry tomatoes if using.
- In a large bowl or serving dish, layer the chopped lettuce as the base.
- Top with the cooked ground beef, shredded cheddar cheese, pickles, onions, and cherry tomatoes.
- Drizzle the burger sauce over the salad or serve on the side.
- Sprinkle with sesame seeds just before serving for a classic burger touch.
Notes
For meal prep, store beef, veggies, and dressing separately to maintain freshness. Add chopped boiled eggs or grilled chicken for extra protein. Dairy-free? Use a plant-based cheese or omit. For crunch, add keto croutons or crushed pork rinds.