Description
This Big Mac Pasta Salad is a delightful fusion of flavors and textures, combining the creamy richness of a classic Big Mac with the satisfying chew of al dente pasta. Each bite bursts with the tangy notes of pickles, the savory taste of ground beef, and the crunch of fresh lettuce, creating a refreshing yet indulgent dish.
Ingredients
Scale
- Pasta: 8 oz elbow macaroni, cooked al dente
- Ground Beef: 1 lb lean ground beef, browned and drained
- Vegetables:
- 1 cup shredded iceberg lettuce
- 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
- 1/4 cup diced pickles
- Dressing:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 2 tbsp yellow mustard
- 1 tbsp white vinegar
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- Cheese: 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions
- In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil and cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and rinse under cold water.
- In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, ground beef, shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, and pickles.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, ketchup, mustard, vinegar, garlic powder, and onion powder until smooth.
- Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and toss until everything is evenly coated.
- Fold in the shredded cheddar cheese and mix gently.
- Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
- Serve chilled, garnished with additional pickles or cheese if desired.
Notes
- This salad can be made a day in advance; just keep it covered in the refrigerator.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- For a lighter version, substitute Greek yogurt for mayonnaise.
- Feel free to add other toppings like bacon bits or diced onions for extra flavor.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: salad
- Method: mixing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 5 grams
- Sodium: 800 milligrams
- Fat: 30 grams
- Saturated Fat: 10 grams
- Unsaturated Fat: 15 grams
- Trans Fat: 0 grams
- Carbohydrates: 35 grams
- Fiber: 2 grams
- Protein: 20 grams
- Cholesterol: 60 milligrams
Keywords: Big Mac Pasta Salad, pasta salad, creamy salad, ground beef salad, summer salad, picnic food, easy salad recipe, American cuisine, quick meal, potluck dish, comfort food, cold salad, side dish