Big Mac Salad Recipe

Ingredients:

• For the Salad:
• 1 pound lean ground beef
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 8 cups chopped romaine lettuce
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 3/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup pickles, diced
• 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced
• For the Big Mac Sauce:
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons ketchup
• 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
• 1 tablespoon sweet pickle relish
• 1 teaspoon white vinegar
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

Directions:

1. Cook the Beef:

   In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef, breaking it up as it cooks. Season with salt and pepper. Once fully cooked, drain any excess fat and set aside to cool slightly.

2. Prepare the Salad:

   In a large bowl, combine the chopped romaine lettuce, cherry tomatoes, shredded cheddar cheese, diced pickles, and thinly sliced red onions.

3. Make the Big Mac Sauce:

   In a small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, ketchup, yellow mustard, sweet pickle relish, white vinegar, garlic powder, and onion powder. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

4. Assemble the Salad:

   Add the slightly cooled ground beef to the salad bowl.

5. Dress the Salad:

   Drizzle the homemade Big Mac sauce over the salad and toss until all ingredients are well coated.

6. Serve:

   Divide the salad among plates or meal prep containers if saving for later.

Variations & Tips:

• Meat Alternatives:

  Substitute ground beef with ground turkey or a plant-based meat alternative for a lighter or vegetarian version.

• Extra Crunch:

  Add a handful of crushed baked potato chips on top of each serving for extra texture.

• Homemade Touch:

  If time permits, make your own pickles a day ahead for a more homemade flavor.

• Advance Preparation:

  The Big Mac sauce can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. It’s also versatile as a dip for vegetables or a spread for sandwiches.

• Meal Prep Tip:

  Prepare the salad ahead of time but keep the dressing separate until ready to serve to maintain crispness.

Enjoy your delicious and refreshing Big Mac Salad!