Name: Keto Big Mac Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3/4 cup (224 g) mayonnaise; 4 teaspoons yellow mustard; 2 tablespoons chopped dill pickles; 1 tablespoon white vinegar; 1 tablespoon chopped onion; 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1 teaspoon sweetener (like erythritol or your choice); 1 pound (453.59 g) lean ground beef; 1 tablespoon kosher salt; 1 tablespoon ground black pepper; 4 cups (288 g) chopped iceberg lettuce; 1/2 cup (80 g) chopped onion; 1 cup (113 g) shredded sharp cheddar cheese; 1/4 cup (35.75 g) chopped dill pickles

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how this recipe takes the nostalgia of a fast-food burger and transforms it into a keto-friendly meal that doesn’t compromise on flavor. It’s quick to make, packed with protein and healthy fats, and perfect for meal prep. Plus, that homemade Big Mac sauce? It’s the secret weapon that ties it all together and keeps me coming back for more.

Keto Big Mac Salad

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Big Mac Sauce:

mayonnaise
yellow mustard
hearty pickles, chopped
white vinegar
onion, finely chopped
smoked paprika
(Optional) a small pinch of low-carb sweetener for balance

For the Salad:

lean ground beef
kosher salt
black pepper
iceberg lettuce, chopped
onion, chopped and halved
sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
dill pickles, chopped

Directions

Make the Big Mac sauce by combining mayonnaise, mustard, chopped pickles, vinegar, chopped onion, smoked paprika, and a touch of sweetener if desired. Mix well and set aside while prepping the rest.
Brown the beef: Heat a skillet over medium heat and cook the ground beef, breaking it into pieces. Once nearly cooked, season with salt and pepper and cook through until nicely browned.
Prep the veggies: While the beef cooks, chop the lettuce, onion, and pickles. Shred the cheddar if it’s not pre-shredded.
Assemble the salad: Divide the chopped lettuce among four bowls. Top with onions, pickles, cheddar cheese, and the hot ground beef.
Add the sauce: Drizzle each bowl with a generous spoonful of the Big Mac sauce just before serving.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 10 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes

Variations

I like to mix things up depending on my cravings. Sometimes I swap the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a leaner version. Adding chopped tomatoes or avocado adds freshness and creaminess. And when I want a spicier kick, I stir a bit of hot sauce into the Big Mac dressing or sprinkle crushed red pepper over the salad.

Storage/Reheating

I store the components separately if I’m making this ahead. The cooked beef keeps well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days and reheats easily in a skillet or microwave. The sauce stays good in the fridge for about a week. I always keep the lettuce and toppings fresh and crisp in separate containers and assemble just before eating.

FAQs

What makes this salad keto-friendly?

It’s low in carbs and high in fats and protein, skipping the burger bun and sugary sauces that would normally knock it out of keto range.

Can I make this salad dairy-free?

Yes, I just leave out the cheese or use a dairy-free shredded alternative.

Is this good for meal prep?

Absolutely. I cook the beef and prepare the sauce in advance, then just assemble when I’m ready to eat.

Can I use a different kind of lettuce?

Yes, while I like iceberg for its crunch, romaine or a spring mix also work well here.

Can I make this vegetarian?

Sure, just substitute the ground beef with a seasoned plant-based ground meat alternative or even grilled mushrooms for a savory option.

Keto Big Mac Salad

Conclusion

This Keto Big Mac Salad is my go-to when I’m craving something indulgent but still want to stick to my goals. It’s fast, flavorful, and so satisfying that I never miss the bun. With that creamy, tangy sauce tying it all together, every bite hits the spot.