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Easy Low-Carb Big Mac Salad Bowl Recipe with Secret Sauce You Must Try

low carb big mac salad bowl - featured image

A quick and satisfying low-carb salad bowl that captures the iconic Big Mac flavors without the bun, featuring juicy ground beef, crisp lettuce, and a tangy secret sauce.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb (450g) ground beef, preferably 80/20 for juiciness
  • 6 cups shredded iceberg lettuce
  • 1/2 cup finely chopped white onion
  • 1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1/4 cup dill pickle slices, chopped
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 2 tablespoons yellow mustard
  • 1 tablespoon dill pickle relish
  • 1 teaspoon white vinegar
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon paprika
  • Pinch of sugar

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Secret Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, yellow mustard, dill pickle relish, white vinegar, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and a pinch of sugar. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Set aside in the fridge to let flavors meld while you prepare the salad (about 5 minutes).
  2. Cook the Ground Beef: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it up with a spatula. Season with salt and pepper. Cook until browned and cooked through, about 8-10 minutes. Drain excess fat if desired.
  3. Prep the Veggies: While the beef cooks, wash and shred the iceberg lettuce, chop onions finely, and dice the pickles. Shred the cheddar cheese if not pre-shredded.
  4. Assemble the Salad Bowl: In a large bowl, combine shredded lettuce, cooked ground beef, onions, pickles, and cheese. Toss gently to mix evenly.
  5. Add the Secret Sauce: Drizzle the secret sauce over the salad bowl. Start with half; toss and taste, then add more if you want it saucier.
  6. Serve: Portion out into bowls or plates. Optionally garnish with extra pickle slices or a sprinkle of paprika for color.

Notes

Do not overcook the ground beef to keep it juicy. Finely chop onions to avoid overpowering raw onion bursts. Whisk the secret sauce vigorously for a smooth texture. If sauce is too thick, thin with a teaspoon of water or lemon juice. Prepare sauce ahead to deepen flavor. Leftovers keep well refrigerated for up to 2 days; reheat beef separately and add fresh lettuce and sauce before serving.

Nutrition

Keywords: low-carb, keto, Big Mac salad, secret sauce, ground beef salad, easy dinner, healthy comfort food