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Big Mac Pasta Salad

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

Big Mac Pasta Salad is a delicious twist on the classic burger dish, blending comfort food with quick, gluten-free options.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Cooling Time 10 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Salad
Cuisine: American
Calories: 320

Ingredients
  

For the Salad
  • 1 lb Lean Ground Beef Can substitute with turkey or plant-based meat
  • 8 oz Chickpea Pasta Can use regular pasta if gluten isn't a concern
  • 1 cup Grape Tomatoes May substitute with cherry or regular tomatoes
  • 2 cups Romaine Lettuce Iceberg lettuce can be used for a different texture
  • 1 small Red Onion Consider green onions or shallots for a milder flavor
  • 1 cup Sharp Cheddar Cheese Mild cheese or a vegan option can be used
  • 1/2 cup Dill Pickles Sweet pickles can be used for a contrast
For the Dressing
  • 1/2 cup Greek Yogurt Can substitute with sour cream or vegan yogurt
  • 1/4 cup Light Mayonnaise Can use more Greek yogurt or vegan mayonnaise
  • 2 tablespoons Ketchup Sugar-free ketchup is a healthier alternative
  • 1 tablespoon Yellow Mustard Dijon mustard can be used for a sharper flavor
  • 2 tablespoons Dill Pickle Juice Vinegar is a great alternative
  • 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder
  • 1 teaspoon Onion Powder
  • 1 teaspoon Paprika

Equipment

  • large skillet
  • Large pot
  • Colander
  • Medium Mixing Bowl
  • Large mixing bowl
  • spatula

Method
 

Preparation Steps
  1. In a large skillet over medium heat, add the lean ground beef and cook for about 6-8 minutes, breaking it apart until browned. Stir in 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce, simmer for another minute, then remove from heat to cool.
  2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, add chickpea pasta, and cook according to package instructions (8-10 minutes), then drain and rinse under cold water.
  3. Chop grape tomatoes, dice romaine lettuce, and finely chop red onion and dill pickles into uniform sizes.
  4. In a medium bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, light mayonnaise, ketchup, yellow mustard, dill pickle juice, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika until smooth.
  5. In a large bowl, combine cooled chickpea pasta, cooked ground beef, chopped veggies, and shredded cheddar cheese. Gently fold together.
  6. Drizzle the dressing over the pasta mixture and toss gently to coat all ingredients evenly.
  7. Fold in the prepared romaine lettuce just before serving to keep it crisp.
  8. Consider sprinkling white sesame seeds over the top for garnish. Serve chilled.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 320kcalCarbohydrates: 35gProtein: 20gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 1gCholesterol: 55mgSodium: 500mgPotassium: 400mgFiber: 8gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 150IUVitamin C: 18mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Ensure ground beef is fully cooked for safety. Chill pasta and add lettuce right before serving for the best texture.

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