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Big Mac Pasta Salad

Big Mac Pasta Salad: A Flavorful Twist on a Classic Dish

Big Mac Pasta Salad is a delightful twist combining classic flavors into a healthy, crowd-pleasing dish that showcases lean beef and crisp veggies.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Cooling Time 5 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Salads
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 8 ounces Chickpea Pasta A gluten-free base; regular pasta can be used if gluten isn’t a concern.
For the Beef
  • 1 pound Lean Ground Beef Choose 96% lean to keep it lighter.
  • 2 tablespoons Worcestershire Sauce Soy sauce can be a flavorful alternative.
For the Salad
  • 1 cup Grape Tomatoes Slice them in half for easy bites.
  • 2 cups Romaine Lettuce Spinach can be substituted.
  • 1 medium Red Onion Opt for green onions for a milder flavor.
  • 1 cup Dill Pickles Relish can be used if pickles are not available.
For the Dressing
  • 1 cup Greek Yogurt Regular yogurt can be used as an alternative.
  • 1/2 cup Light Mayonnaise Substitute with more Greek yogurt for a lighter option.
  • 1 tablespoon Ketchup Consider using no-sugar-added versions.
  • 1 tablespoon Yellow Mustard
  • 2 tablespoons Dill Pickle Juice
  • 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder
  • 1 teaspoon Onion Powder
  • 1 teaspoon Paprika
Optional Garnish
  • 1 tablespoon White Sesame Seeds Feel free to skip for simplicity.

Equipment

  • Large Skillet
  • Pot
  • Mixing Bowl
  • Strainer
  • Knife
  • cutting board

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. In a large skillet over medium heat, add the lean ground beef and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in Worcestershire sauce and let it simmer for an additional minute. Remove from heat and cool.
  2. Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and add chickpea pasta. Cook according to package instructions, about 6-8 minutes, until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water.
  3. Chop grape tomatoes in half, dice romaine lettuce, red onion, and dill pickles.
  4. In a bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, light mayonnaise, ketchup, yellow mustard, dill pickle juice, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika until smooth.
  5. In a large bowl, combine cooled pasta, cooked ground beef, chopped tomatoes, romaine lettuce, diced onion, and cheddar cheese. Mix gently.
  6. Drizzle prepared dressing over the salad mixture and toss gently to coat.
  7. Add chopped romaine lettuce just before serving and top with sesame seeds if desired. Serve in a large bowl.
  8. For leftovers, transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 25gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 3gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 500mgFiber: 5gSugar: 6gVitamin A: 30IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 10mgIron: 15mg

Notes

Using 96% lean ground beef keeps it flavorful yet healthier. Rinse chickpea pasta after cooking to prevent mushiness. Add lettuce just before serving to maintain freshness.

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