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Big Mac Pasta Salad

Big Mac Pasta Salad: Your New Favorite Comfort Food Dish

Discover the nostalgic flavors of Big Mac Pasta Salad, a delicious twist on a childhood favorite that’s quick and crowd-pleasing.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Salads
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

For the Salad
  • 1 pound lean ground beef Consider using turkey or plant-based meat for a lighter option.
  • 8 ounces chickpea pasta Regular pasta can be used for a non-gluten-free option.
  • 1 cup grape tomatoes Diced bell peppers can work as a substitute.
  • 2 cups romaine lettuce Spinach can be used for a milder flavor.
  • 1/2 cup red onion Sweet onions can offer a milder taste.
  • 1 cup dill pickles Relish or chopped green olives can be an option.
  • 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese Use mozzarella or a dairy-free cheese for alternatives.
For the Dressing
  • 1 cup Greek yogurt Sour cream can substitute for a richer flavor.
  • 1/4 cup light mayonnaise Opt for avocado mayo for a healthier choice.
  • 3 tablespoons ketchup Unsweetened tomato paste can be a lower-sugar alternative.
  • 1 tablespoon yellow mustard Dijon mustard can be used for a more refined flavor.
  • 2 tablespoons dill pickle juice Substitute with lemon juice for a fresh twist.
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder Fresh minced garlic can be used for a stronger flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder Shallots can substitute for a different flavor profile.
  • 1 teaspoon paprika Smoked paprika offers a unique twist.
  • 1 tablespoon white sesame seeds Chopped peanuts or sunflower seeds can be alternatives.

Equipment

  • Large skillet
  • Pot
  • Mixing Bowl
  • large bowl

Method
 

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Big Mac Pasta Salad
  1. In a large skillet over medium heat, add 1 pound of lean ground beef. Cook for about 7-10 minutes, breaking it apart, until the beef is fully browned and no longer pink. Stir in 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce, letting it cook for an additional minute. Once done, remove from heat and set aside to cool.
  2. Bring a pot of water to a boil, and add 8 ounces of chickpea pasta. Cook according to package instructions, usually about 8-10 minutes, until al dente. Once cooked, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water until it's cool to the touch.
  3. While the pasta cools, take 1 cup of grape tomatoes and halve them. Chop 2 cups of romaine lettuce into bite-size pieces, dice half a red onion, and chop 1 cup of dill pickles.
  4. In a mixing bowl, whisk together 1 cup of Greek yogurt, 1/4 cup of light mayonnaise, 3 tablespoons of ketchup, 1 tablespoon of yellow mustard, and 2 tablespoons of dill pickle juice until smooth. Add 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of onion powder, and 1 teaspoon of paprika.
  5. In a large bowl, combine the cooled chickpea pasta, cooked ground beef, halved tomatoes, chopped lettuce, diced red onion, 1 cup of shredded sharp cheddar cheese, and chopped dill pickles. Gently toss these ingredients together.
  6. Drizzle the homemade dressing over the pasta mixture, then toss gently to coat all the ingredients.
  7. If desired, sprinkle a tablespoon of white sesame seeds on top for added texture. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 1 hour before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 25gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 6gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 1500IUVitamin C: 25mgCalcium: 300mgIron: 3mg

Notes

For optimal freshness, store salad components separately and combine just before serving. Adjust dressing to your taste preferences.

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