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Big Mac Pasta Salad

Big Mac Pasta Salad: A Fun, Flavorful Twist on Comfort Food

Big Mac Pasta Salad combines classic flavors in a hearty dish that's quick to prepare, perfect for gatherings and weeknight dinners.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 6 cups
Course: Salad
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

For the Salad
  • 1 lb 96% lean ground beef Substitute with ground turkey or tofu for a lighter option.
  • 8 oz chickpea pasta Regular pasta can also be used.
  • 1 cup grape tomatoes Use cherry tomatoes if preferred.
  • 2 cups romaine lettuce Iceberg or spinach work well as substitutes.
  • 1/2 cup red onion Shallots or green onions are great alternatives.
  • 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese Swap for dairy-free cheese to make it vegan.
  • 1/4 cup dill pickles Sweet pickles can be used for a different twist.
For the Dressing
  • 1/2 cup nonfat plain Greek yogurt Sour cream can be substituted.
  • 1/4 cup light mayonnaise Use full-fat mayo or more yogurt for a healthier twist.
  • 2 tbsp no-sugar-added ketchup Regular ketchup is fine in moderation.
  • 1 tbsp yellow mustard Dijon mustard can elevate the dish.
  • 2 tbsp dill pickle juice Vinegar can serve as a substitute.
  • to taste garlic powder
  • to taste onion powder
  • to taste paprika

Equipment

  • Skillet
  • Pot
  • Mixing Bowl

Method
 

Step‑by‑Step Instructions
  1. In a large skillet, heat over medium-high heat and add the 96% lean ground beef, breaking it apart with a spatula. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until browned and fully cooked. Stir in Worcestershire sauce, then remove from heat and set aside to cool.
  2. While the beef is cooking, bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add chickpea pasta and cook according to package instructions (about 6-8 minutes). Drain the pasta and rinse under cold water.
  3. Chop the grape tomatoes, romaine lettuce, and red onion. Place all chopped vegetables in a large mixing bowl.
  4. In a separate bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, light mayonnaise, no-sugar-added ketchup, yellow mustard, dill pickle juice, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika until smooth.
  5. In the bowl with vegetables, add the cooled chickpea pasta and the browned ground beef. Incorporate sharp cheddar cheese and gently fold everything together.
  6. Drizzle the dressing over the salad mixture and toss gently to coat all ingredients.
  7. Fold in romaine lettuce just before serving. Transfer to a serving dish or bowls and enjoy it chilled or at room temperature.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 25gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 500mgFiber: 6gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 800IUVitamin C: 25mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 2.5mg

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Don't freeze due to dressing ingredients. Enjoy cold or at room temperature.

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