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Big Mac Pasta Salad

Big Mac Pasta Salad: A Fun Twist on a Classic Favorite

Big Mac Pasta Salad combines the flavors of a Big Mac into a refreshing pasta dish, perfect for potlucks and weeknight dinners.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Cooling Time 10 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Salads
Cuisine: American
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

For the Salad
  • 1 lb Ground Beef Can substitute with turkey or plant-based alternative.
  • 2 tbsp Worcestershire Sauce Use soy sauce or tamari for gluten-free.
  • 8 oz Chickpea Pasta Gluten-free high-protein alternative.
  • 1 cup Grape Tomatoes Can substitute with cherry tomatoes.
  • 2 cups Romaine Lettuce Can replace with spinach or mixed greens.
  • 1 medium Red Onion Green onions can be substituted.
  • 1 cup Sharp Cheddar Cheese Use dairy-free cheese for vegan.
  • 1 cup Dill Pickles Sweet pickles can be used for a different taste.
For the Dressing
  • 1 cup Greek Yogurt Use dairy-free yogurt for vegan.
  • 1/2 cup Light Mayonnaise Avocado mayo or vegan alternative can be used.
  • 1/4 cup No-Sugar-Added Ketchup Regular ketchup can be used if sugar content is not a concern.
  • 2 tbsp Yellow Mustard Dijon mustard can be used for sharper flavor.
  • 2 tbsp Dill Pickle Juice Use extra lemon juice for a different tang.
  • 1 tsp Garlic Powder Fresh minced garlic can be substituted.
  • 1 tsp Onion Powder Fresh onion can replace it if preferred.
  • 1 tsp Paprika Smoked paprika can add depth.
For Garnishing
  • 2 tbsp White Sesame Seeds Can be omitted or replaced with sunflower seeds.

Equipment

  • Skillet
  • Large pot
  • Mixing bowl
  • Whisk

Method
 

Preparation Steps
  1. In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned, about 6-8 minutes. Stir in the Worcestershire sauce and continue cooking for an additional minute. Remove from heat and set aside to cool.
  2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, and add the chickpea pasta. Cook according to package instructions, typically 8-10 minutes, until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop cooking. Allow to cool completely.
  3. While the pasta cools, halve the grape tomatoes and place in a large mixing bowl. Chop the romaine lettuce, dice the red onion, and slice the dill pickles. Add all chopped vegetables to the bowl.
  4. In a separate bowl, mix together Greek yogurt, light mayonnaise, no-sugar-added ketchup, yellow mustard, dill pickle juice, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika. Whisk until smooth.
  5. In the large bowl with the vegetables, add the cooled chickpea pasta and cooked ground beef. Toss gently to combine.
  6. Drizzle the creamy dressing over the salad, and gently toss to coat.
  7. Sprinkle sesame seeds over the top and serve immediately, or refrigerate for up to 3 hours.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 25gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 6gPolyunsaturated Fat: 4gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 500mgFiber: 8gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 15IUVitamin C: 25mgCalcium: 20mgIron: 15mg

Notes

Ensure ingredients are fresh for best flavor. Customize with more veggies or proteins as desired.

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