Description
This Big Mac Pasta Salad combines the rich, savory flavors of a classic Big Mac with the delightful texture of al dente pasta. Each bite bursts with creamy dressing, crunchy pickles, and juicy ground beef, creating a satisfying and indulgent experience that will leave you craving more.
Ingredients
Scale
- Pasta: 8 oz elbow macaroni, cooked and drained
- Ground Beef: 1 lb lean ground beef, browned and drained
- Vegetables:
- 1 cup shredded lettuce
- 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
- 1/2 cup diced pickles
- Cheese: 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Dressing:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 2 tbsp yellow mustard
- 1 tbsp white vinegar
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
Instructions
- In a large pot, cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and rinse under cold water.
- In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked, about 6-8 minutes. Drain excess fat.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, ground beef, shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, diced pickles, and shredded cheddar cheese.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, ketchup, mustard, vinegar, garlic powder, and onion powder until smooth.
- Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and toss until everything is evenly coated.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
- Before serving, give the salad a good stir and adjust seasoning if necessary.
Notes
- This salad can be made a day in advance; just keep it covered in the refrigerator.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- For a lighter version, substitute Greek yogurt for mayonnaise.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: salad
- Method: mixing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 5 grams
- Sodium: 800 milligrams
- Fat: 30 grams
- Saturated Fat: 10 grams
- Unsaturated Fat: 15 grams
- Trans Fat: 0 grams
- Carbohydrates: 35 grams
- Fiber: 2 grams
- Protein: 20 grams
- Cholesterol: 70 milligrams
Keywords: Big Mac Pasta Salad, pasta salad, creamy salad, ground beef salad, summer salad, picnic food, easy salad recipe, comfort food, quick meal, American cuisine, potluck dish, cold pasta salad, Big Mac inspired