When a craving for a Big Mac hits, you know exactly what you’re in for; savoury beef, tangy pickles, cheese, crisp lettuce, and that unmistakable sauce. My Big Mac Salad takes all of those iconic flavours and layers them into a lighter, low-carb bowl that feels just as satisfying as the fast food classic. It’s quick to make, fun to eat, and the kind of dinner you’ll come back to again and again. With fresh veggies, seasoned beef, and a healthier version of the famous mac sauce, this salad proves you can have comfort food and still keep things simple and balanced.

What I love most about this big mac salad recipe is how it gives you everything you crave from a burger, but in a lighter, fresher way. On nights when I’m craving comfort food but don’t want something heavy, I reach for meals like this that still feel indulgent but keep things simpler. My Skillet Lasagna works the same magic with noodles, sauce, and cheese all in one pan. This salad has the same balance of comfort and ease, but with a fun twist similar to my Homemade Hamburger Helper.

😍 Why You’ll Love This Big Mac Salad

Low-carb twist: all the flavour of a Big Mac without the bun.
Quick & weeknight-friendly: ready in just 20 minutes with minimal effort.
Crowd-pleaser: familiar flavours everyone loves, served in a fresh new way.
Customizable: swap the protein, adjust the toppings, or make it dairy-free to fit your needs and preferences.

🍔 Ingredients To Make This Big Mac Salad Recipe

For the Beef:

Olive oil: used to sauté the beef until browned and juicy.
Ground beef (or turkey): savoury, hearty, and the protein base of the salad.
Salt: enhances and balances the flavour of the beef.
Pepper: adds mild heat and depth.
Garlic powder: infuses the beef with subtle, savoury flavour.

For the Mac Sauce:

Plain Greek yogurt (or mayo): creamy base, with Greek yogurt as a lighter, protein-packed option.
Sweet pickle relish: adds that signature Big Mac tang and sweetness.
Ketchup: gives colour and balances the sauce with a touch of sweetness.
Yellow mustard: sharp bite to cut through the richness.
Pickle juice: briny tang that keeps the sauce lively.
White vinegar: balances with brightness and acidity.
White onion: finely chopped for a sharp, fresh bite.
Garlic: minced, for depth and aroma.
Salt: keeps the flavours balanced.
Black pepper: adds a little warmth and complexity.

For the Salad:

Romaine lettuce: crisp, refreshing base that holds up well to the toppings.
Dill pickles: tangy crunch nd a Big Mac must-have.
White onion: sharp and fresh.
Sharp cheddar cheese: because every Big Mac needs cheese!
Tomato: juicy, refreshing bursts to balance the richness.
Sesame seeds (optional): a fun nod to the sesame seed bun.

✔️ How To Make Big Mac Salad

To start, place a medium skillet over medium heat and drizzle in the olive oil. Once the oil is hot, add the ground beef and break it up with a spoon. Cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it begins to brown. Sprinkle in the garlic powder, salt, and pepper, then continue cooking until the beef is fully browned and no pink remains. Remove from the heat and set aside.

Next, make the mac sauce. In a small bowl, combine the Greek yogurt (or mayo), sweet pickle relish, ketchup, mustard, pickle juice, vinegar, onion, garlic, salt, and pepper. Stir well until smooth and creamy, then taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.

Now it’s time to build the salad. Start with a base of shredded romaine on a large platter or in individual bowls. Top with the seasoned ground beef, chopped pickles, onion, cheddar, and tomatoes. Drizzle generously with the mac sauce and finish with a sprinkle of sesame seeds for that signature Big Mac touch.

Give everything a quick toss before serving and enjoy right away while the beef is still warm. See the recipe in action here.

🗒️ Variations

Pickle lover’s edition: double up on the dill pickles or add different varieties of pickles.
Make it spicy: add diced jalapeños to the salad if you want a little kick.

🗒️ Substitutions

Meat sub: use ground turkey for a lighter option, or a plant-based ground beef alternative.
Dairy-free: swap out the cheddar for your favourite dairy-free shredded cheese and use vegan mayo instead of the Greek yogurt.

🍴 Leftovers? Lucky you.

If you happen to have leftover Big Mac Salad, store the components separately for best results. Keep the cooked beef and mac sauce in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 4 days.

🤔 FAQ’S

👩🏻‍🍳 Hungry For More? 

If you loved this Big Mac Salad, then make sure to check out a few of my other favourites you may also love:

• Crispy Smashed Potatoes with Lemon Dill & Chive Dressing
• Caesar Pasta Salad
• Lemon Herb Pasta Salad
• Crispy Rice Salad with Peanut Lime Dressing
• Spring Roll Salad

💌 Let’s Stay Connected

Keep in touch with me on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, and Pinterest! If you do make this Big Mac Salad recipe (or any recipe of mine) don’t forget to leave a review.