How to Make Big Mac Salad with Homemade Copycat Sauce

If you love the taste of a classic McDonald’s Big Mac but want a healthier, low-carb alternative, this Big Mac Salad with homemade copycat sauce is the perfect recipe for you. Packed with seasoned ground beef, crisp lettuce, tangy pickles, shredded cheese, and topped with a creamy “special sauce,” it delivers all the flavors of the iconic burger—without the bun.

Whether you’re following a keto diet, looking for a gluten-free meal, or simply craving a fun twist on a cheeseburger, this salad is quick, easy, and family-friendly. With just a few simple ingredients, you can enjoy the taste of your favorite fast-food classic right at home in under 30 minutes.

Why You’ll Love This Big Mac Salad

If you’re craving the taste of a McDonald’s Big Mac but want something lighter and healthier, this salad is going to be your new favorite. It’s the best of both worlds—bold burger flavor with the freshness of a salad bowl. Here’s why this recipe deserves a spot in your weekly meal rotation:

A Healthier Twist on the Classic Burger

Traditional Big Macs are delicious but high in carbs and calories because of the bun and extra toppings. By turning it into a salad, you keep the juicy beef, crunchy lettuce, cheese, and tangy pickles, while cutting out the unnecessary carbs. It’s perfect for anyone on a low-carb or keto lifestyle.

All the Flavors of a Big Mac in a Bowl

Every bite of this salad captures the signature Big Mac taste—from the seasoned ground beef to the shredded cheddar and that unforgettable copycat special sauce. You won’t even miss the bun because the layers of fresh ingredients come together just like the real deal.

Quick and Easy Weeknight Meal

This recipe is a lifesaver on busy nights. With just a handful of pantry staples and fresh produce, you can have a full meal ready in under 30 minutes. No complicated steps or fancy cooking skills required—just simple, family-friendly goodness.

Perfect for Meal Prep and Family Dinners

Big Mac Salad isn’t just tasty—it’s versatile. You can prepare the beef and sauce ahead of time, then assemble the salads whenever you need them. It’s also a fun recipe to serve family-style, where everyone can build their own cheeseburger bowl with their favorite toppings.

Essential Ingredients for Big Mac Salad

To create a salad that tastes just like the famous McDonald’s Big Mac, you’ll need a mix of fresh veggies, seasoned ground beef, shredded cheese, and of course, the signature homemade copycat Big Mac sauce. Here’s everything you’ll need:

Ground Beef and Seasonings

• 1 lb (450 g) ground beef – lean beef works best to keep the salad lighter, but you can use regular for more flavor.
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp onion powder

👉 Tip: A nonstick skillet or cast-iron pan works well to brown the beef evenly. Use a wooden spoon or spatula to break it into small crumbles while cooking.

Fresh Salad Base

• 1 medium head iceberg lettuce (about 6 cups chopped) – crisp and refreshing, the perfect base for this salad.
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese – sharp cheddar gives the best flavor.
• ½ cup dill pickles, diced – adds the tangy crunch you expect in a Big Mac.
• ½ cup diced onions – white or yellow onions for that burger-style bite.
• (Optional) 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved – not in the original, but great for extra freshness.

👉 Tip: Use a large cutting board, sharp chef’s knife, and salad spinner (if you wash your lettuce) to keep everything crisp and ready.

Utensils needed:

• Cutting board
• Sharp chef’s knife
• Salad spinner or colander (for rinsing lettuce)
• Large salad bowl (for mixing the base)

Homemade Copycat Big Mac Sauce

This creamy, tangy sauce is the heart of the recipe and what makes it taste like the real deal.

• ½ cup mayonnaise
• 2 tbsp ketchup
• 1 tbsp yellow mustard
• 2 tbsp sweet pickle relish
• 1 tsp white vinegar
• ½ tsp paprika
• ¼ tsp garlic powder
• ¼ tsp onion powder

Utensils needed:

• Small mixing bowl
• Measuring spoons
• Whisk or fork
• Silicone spatula (to scrape down the bowl)

👉 Tip: Whisk the ingredients together in a small mixing bowl until smooth. A silicone whisk works best for creamy sauces. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.

Optional Toppings and Variations

• Sesame seeds – sprinkle over the top to mimic the iconic Big Mac bun.
• Avocado slices – adds creaminess and healthy fats.
• Ground turkey or chicken – swap for beef if you prefer a lighter protein option.
• Shredded lettuce cups or low-carb tortillas – turn it into wraps for easy serving.

Step-by-Step Recipe for Big Mac Salad

Making this Big Mac Salad at home is simple and quick. Just follow these steps, and in under 30 minutes, you’ll have a fresh, flavorful “burger in a bowl.”

1. Cook the Ground Beef

• Heat a skillet or frying pan over medium heat.
• Add 1 lb (450 g) ground beef and break it apart with a wooden spoon or spatula.
• Season with 1 tsp garlic powder, 1 tsp onion powder, salt, and pepper.
• Cook until the beef is browned and no longer pink (about 7–8 minutes).
• If there’s excess fat, drain it using a colander.
• Transfer the cooked beef to a medium bowl and set aside.

Utensils needed: Skillet, spatula, colander, medium bowl.

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2. Prepare the Salad Base

• Rinse and chop 1 head of iceberg lettuce into bite-sized pieces.
• Dice ½ cup dill pickles, ½ cup onions, and 1 medium tomato (optional).
• Place everything into a large salad bowl along with 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese.
• Toss gently to combine.

Utensils needed: Cutting board, chef’s knife, salad spinner/colander, large salad bowl.

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3. Make the Copycat Big Mac Sauce

• In a small mixing bowl, combine:
  • ½ cup mayonnaise
  • 2 tbsp ketchup (or sugar-free ketchup for keto)
  • 1 tbsp yellow mustard
  • 1 tbsp sweet pickle relish
  • 1 tsp white vinegar
  • ½ tsp smoked paprika
  • ½ tsp garlic powder
  • ½ tsp onion powder
• Whisk until smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust seasonings if needed.

Utensils needed: Small bowl, measuring spoons, whisk or fork, spatula.

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4. Assemble the Big Mac Salad

• Layer the chopped lettuce and veggie mix at the bottom of the serving bowl.
• Add the warm ground beef on top.
• Sprinkle with extra cheese and diced pickles if desired.
• Drizzle generously with the homemade Big Mac sauce.
• Garnish with sesame seeds, avocado slices, or bacon crumbles for extra flavor.

Utensils needed: Serving bowl, ladle/spoon for beef, spoon for sauce.

Delicious Variations and Serving Ideas

One of the best things about this Big Mac Salad is how versatile it is. With a few simple tweaks, you can adapt the recipe to fit different diets, preferences, and occasions. Here are some creative variations and serving ideas to try:

Low-Carb and Keto Options

• Use sugar-free ketchup and a keto-friendly relish in the sauce to keep carbs to a minimum.
• Swap cheddar cheese for a lower-carb cheese option or go lighter with just a sprinkle.
• Add avocado slices for healthy fats that make the salad even more filling.

Tip: For strict keto, avoid adding tomatoes or tortilla strips.

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Big Mac Salad Wraps

• Turn your salad into a wrap or handheld meal by scooping the beef, toppings, and sauce into large lettuce leaves (like iceberg or romaine).
• Alternatively, use a low-carb tortilla or wrap for a portable version—perfect for lunches on the go.

Tip: Wraps are also great for picky eaters or kids who may prefer holding their food.

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Vegetarian or Turkey Versions

• Replace ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter, leaner option.
• For a vegetarian twist, try plant-based ground beef alternatives—the flavor works just as well with the sauce and toppings.
• Add extra veggies like grilled mushrooms, roasted bell peppers, or zucchini for more flavor and nutrition.

Tip: Smoked paprika or liquid smoke can help mimic that classic grilled flavor in vegetarian versions.

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Family-Style Salad Bar

• Serve the ingredients separately in bowls and let everyone build their own salad.
• Offer extras like jalapeños, olives, shredded carrots, or different cheeses so guests can customize their bowls.
• This works especially well for gatherings, potlucks, or family dinners where preferences vary.

Tip: Keep the sauce in a squeeze bottle so everyone can drizzle the exact amount they want.

Tips for Storage, Meal Prep, and Leftovers

This Big Mac Salad with homemade copycat sauce is not only quick to make but also great for meal prep. With the right storage methods, you can keep the ingredients fresh and enjoy this salad throughout the week.

Storing the Beef and Sauce Separately

• Keep the cooked ground beef in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days.
• Store the Big Mac sauce in a separate sealed jar or container for up to 1 week.
• Avoid mixing the beef, lettuce, and sauce until you’re ready to serve—this prevents sogginess.

Utensils needed: Airtight containers, glass jars with lids, ladle or spoon.

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How to Meal Prep Big Mac Salad

• Portion the lettuce, pickles, cheese, and onions into individual containers or meal prep bowls.
• Keep the beef and sauce in separate smaller containers so you can reheat and drizzle fresh when serving.
• Add optional toppings (like sesame seeds or avocado) right before eating to keep them from browning or losing texture.

Tip: Mason jars also work well—layer lettuce at the bottom, toppings in the middle, and keep beef/sauce aside until serving.

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Best Way to Reheat Ground Beef

• Reheat beef in the microwave for 1–2 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• For best results, use a skillet on the stovetop over medium heat for 3–4 minutes to bring back flavor and texture.
• Avoid reheating lettuce or sauce—only add them fresh once the beef is warmed.

Utensils needed: Microwave-safe dish, skillet, spatula.

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Freezing Tips and What to Avoid

• Do freeze the cooked beef—it lasts up to 2 months in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• Don’t freeze the lettuce, cheese, or sauce, as they lose texture and flavor when thawed.
• For easy meal prep, freeze beef in single-serving portions so you can quickly defrost only what you need.

Utensils needed: Freezer-safe bags or containers, labeling tape, marker for dates.