Big Mac Pasta Salad: A Fun Twist on a Classic Favorite
This Big Mac Pasta Salad combines the iconic flavors of a beloved fast-food favorite with the comforting goodness of pasta. It’s a delightful and refreshing dish perfect for potlucks, picnics, or a fun weeknight dinner.
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 30 mins
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- Elbow macaroni or rotini pasta
- Lean ground beef (or ground turkey or chicken)
- Shredded sharp cheddar cheese (or mozzarella or dairy-free cheese)
- Chopped iceberg or romaine lettuce (or baby spinach or arugula)
- Finely diced yellow onion (or red onion, optional)
- Dill pickles (or sweet pickles, if preferred)
- Mayonnaise
- Ketchup
- Mustard
- Garlic powder
- Onion powder
- Salt
- Pepper
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Begin by boiling a large pot of salted water. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.
- Brown the Beef: In a skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef. Cook until browned and no longer pink, breaking it apart with a spatula. Drain any excess fat.
- Mix the Dressing: In a bowl, combine mayonnaise, ketchup, mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Adjust the quantities to your taste – you want it creamy and tangy!
- Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add the cooked pasta, browned beef, cheddar cheese, lettuce, onion, and pickles. Pour the dressing over the top and mix well until everything is coated evenly.
- Chill: Cover the salad and place it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
- Serve: Before serving, give it a good stir. Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary, then enjoy your delicious Big Mac Pasta Salad!
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 5 g
- Sodium: 600 mg
- Fat: 25 g
- Saturated Fat: 10 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 40 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 25 g
- Cholesterol: 70 mg
Keywords: Customize your salad with your favorite veggies like diced tomatoes or bell peppers. This salad is perfect for meal prep and can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.