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Big Mac Pasta Salad

Big Mac Pasta Salad: A Refreshing Take on a Classic Favorite

Big Mac Pasta Salad combines the classic flavors of a Big Mac into a refreshing, easy-to-make pasta dish that's perfect for gatherings.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Chill Time 2 hours
Total Time 2 hours 35 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Salads
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

For the Salad
  • 1 lb Ground Beef Use lean ground beef for a healthier option.
  • 12 oz Rotini Pasta Can substitute with short pasta like bowtie or penne.
  • 2 cups Shredded Iceberg Lettuce Add just before serving to prevent sogginess.
  • 1 cup Chopped Dill Pickles Use dill spears or slices based on preference.
  • 1 cup Shredded Cheddar Cheese Can use Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack for variety.
For the Dressing
  • 1 cup Mayonnaise Substitute with Greek yogurt for a lighter option.
  • 1 tbsp Ketchup Adds delicious tomato flavor.
  • 2 tbsp Yellow Mustard Essential for that Big Mac taste!
  • 2 tbsp Dill Pickle Juice Vital for authenticity.
  • 1 tsp Onion Powder Can use garlic powder for an extra kick.
  • 1 tsp Garlic Powder Fresh minced garlic works well too.
  • 1 tsp Smoked Paprika Replace with regular paprika if desired.
For Garnish
  • 1 cup French Fried Onions Can substitute with crushed tortilla chips or omit for fewer carbs.

Equipment

  • Medium skillet
  • Large pot
  • Mixing bowl
  • Whisk
  • Spatula

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. In a medium skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef. Cook for 8–10 minutes, breaking it apart with a spatula until it's browned. Drain excess grease and let cool.
  2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and add the rotini pasta. Cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 8–10 minutes. Drain and rinse under cold water.
  3. In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, ketchup, yellow mustard, dill pickle juice, onion powder, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and remaining salt and pepper until smooth. Stir in the chopped dill pickles.
  4. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled rotini pasta, browned ground beef, and shredded cheddar cheese. Fold everything together using a spatula.
  5. Pour the prepared dressing over the pasta mixture, tossing until well coated. Refrigerate for 1–2 hours to chill.
  6. Just before serving, fold in the shredded iceberg lettuce and sprinkle with French fried onions.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 15gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gTrans Fat: 1gCholesterol: 45mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 250mgFiber: 2gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Make ahead for enhanced flavors, and add greens just before serving to keep fresh. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

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