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Big Mac Pasta Salad

Big Mac Pasta Salad: A Fun, Healthy Twist on a Classic

A delightful twist on our favorite burger, Big Mac Pasta Salad combines beef, veggies, and a creamy dressing for a crowd-pleasing dish.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Cooling Time 10 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 6 cups
Course: Salads
Cuisine: American
Calories: 320

Ingredients
  

For the Beef
  • 1 lb lean ground beef Can substitute with turkey or plant-based ground meat.
  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
For the Pasta
  • 8 oz chickpea pasta Alternative: regular pasta for non-gluten cases.
For the Vegetables
  • 1 cup grape tomatoes Halved.
  • 1 cup romaine lettuce Chopped.
  • 1/3 cup red onion Finely diced, can substitute with shallots.
  • 1/3 cup dill pickles Finely diced, can swap with sweet pickles.
For the Dressing
  • 3/4 cup nonfat plain Greek yogurt Alternative: regular yogurt or sour cream.
  • 1/4 cup light mayonnaise Can replace with avocado or dairy-free mayo.
  • 4 tbsp ketchup
  • 1.5 tbsp yellow mustard Dijon can be used for a sharper flavor.
  • 1.5 tbsp dill pickle juice Can replace with extra vinegar.
  • to taste garlic powder Part of spice mix.
  • to taste onion powder Part of spice mix.
  • to taste paprika Part of spice mix.
For the Topping
  • 1/2 cup sharp cheddar cheese Optional: can use mozzarella or omit for dairy-free.
  • to taste white sesame seeds For garnish.

Equipment

  • large skillet
  • Pot
  • mixing bowl
  • Colander
  • spatula
  • large wooden spoon

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. In a large skillet, heat over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook for 6–8 minutes, breaking it apart until browned. Stir in Worcestershire sauce, season with salt and pepper, then transfer to cool.
  2. In boiling salted water, cook chickpea pasta according to package instructions until al dente, usually 7–10 minutes. Drain and rinse under cool water to halt cooking. Allow to cool completely.
  3. Halve grape tomatoes, finely dice red onion and dill pickles, and chop romaine lettuce. Set veggies aside for assembly.
  4. In a bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, ketchup, mustard, dill pickle juice, and spices until smooth and creamy.
  5. In a large bowl, combine cooled pasta with ground beef, tomatoes, lettuce, onion, and pickles. Add cheese, mixing gently to combine.
  6. Drizzle dressing over salad mixture. Toss gently until all ingredients are coated in the dressing.
  7. Garnish with sesame seeds and serve immediately or refrigerate for later. This dish is perfect for potlucks or family dinners.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 320kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 22gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 7gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 450mgFiber: 5gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 20IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 10mgIron: 15mg

Notes

Ensure to brown the ground beef thoroughly and cool the pasta completely before mixing. Adjust dressing seasoning to taste and feel free to substitute ingredients as desired.

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