Craving a Big Mac but trying to stay low-carb? This Big Mac salad is the perfect solution. It captures all the bold flavors of the famous fast-food burger without the carbs.
With seasoned ground beef, crispy lettuce, shredded cheese, and a tangy, creamy sauce, this salad is satisfying, delicious, and completely keto-friendly.
Why This Salad is Perfect for Keto
One of the hardest parts of following a keto diet is missing out on favorite comfort foods. But with the right recipes, you don’t have to feel deprived.
This Big Mac salad gives you everything you love about the iconic burger without the bun. It’s packed with healthy fats, protein, and flavor while keeping carbs to a minimum.
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The special sauce is what really brings this salad to life. Made with mayonnaise, mustard, pickles, vinegar, and spices, it mimics the famous Big Mac sauce with a keto-friendly twist.
The combination of tangy, creamy, and slightly smoky flavors makes every bite irresistible.
Easy to Make & Perfect for Meal Prep
This salad isn’t just delicious—it’s also incredibly easy to prepare. Whether you need a quick weeknight meal or a make-ahead lunch, this recipe fits the bill.
- For quick meals: Cook the ground beef ahead of time and store it in the fridge. When ready to eat, simply reheat it and toss it with fresh lettuce, pickles, cheese, and homemade sauce.
- For meal prep: Store all ingredients separately in airtight containers. Assemble just before serving to keep the lettuce crisp and the flavors fresh.
This method ensures you always have a keto-friendly meal ready to go without extra effort.
Ways to Customize Your Big Mac Salad
One of the best things about this salad is how easily it can be customized. Here are a few ideas to make it your own:
- Add bacon: Crumbled bacon adds extra crunch and flavor.
- Spice it up: A dash of hot sauce or cayenne pepper gives the dressing a little kick.
- Swap the cheese: Cheddar is traditional, but you can try Swiss, pepper jack, or blue cheese for a twist.
- Use different greens: Romaine works great, but butter lettuce or a mix of greens adds variety.
- Try a dairy-free version: Skip the cheese or use a dairy-free alternative.
Tips for the Best Flavor
To get the most out of this keto-friendly Big Mac salad, follow these simple tips:
- Season the ground beef well. A little garlic powder, salt, and black pepper enhance the flavor.
- Let the sauce sit. Allowing the dressing to chill for a bit helps the flavors meld together.
- Use high-quality ingredients. Fresh lettuce, real mayonnaise, and sharp cheddar cheese make a big difference.
The Perfect Keto Salad for Any Occasion
This Big Mac salad is more than just a tasty keto-friendly meal—it’s a fast, satisfying, and healthy way to enjoy a burger-inspired dish. Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch, an easy weeknight dinner, or a meal-prep idea, this salad checks all the boxes.
With its delicious combination of flavors and simple ingredients, it’s no surprise that this recipe has become a go-to for those following a low-carb lifestyle.
Next time a burger craving hits, skip the drive-thru and make this easy salad instead.
Keto Big Mac Salad Recipe
Ingredients
For the Sauce:
- ¾ cup mayonnaise
- 1 tbsp mustard
- 2 tbsp chopped dill pickles
- 1 tbsp white vinegar
- 1 tbsp chopped onions
- 2 tsp sweetener
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
For the Salad:
- 2 cups romaine lettuce
- ¼ lb ground beef fully cooked & seasoned
- ¼ cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 tbsp chopped pickles
- 2 tbsp chopped onions
- 2–3 tbsp prepared Mac Sauce
- Salt & pepper to taste
Instructions
For the Sauce:
- Combine all sauce ingredients in a bowl, stirring thoroughly until smooth and well blended.
- Transfer to a squeeze bottle or airtight container for easy use. Refrigerate until needed.
For the Salad:
- In a large mixing bowl, layer the chopped romaine, cooked ground beef, shredded cheddar cheese, pickles, and onions.
- Drizzle the prepared Mac Sauce over the salad and toss gently to evenly coat all ingredients.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste, then serve immediately.
Nutrition
Davin is a jack-of-all-trades but has professional training and experience in various home and garden subjects. He leans on other experts when needed and edits and fact-checks all articles.