Print

Big Mac Pasta Salad Recipe

Big Mac Pasta Salad Recipe
Print Recipe

★★★★★

5.1 from 18 reviews

A delicious and hearty Big Mac Pasta Salad inspired by the classic burger, combining tender elbow macaroni, seasoned ground beef, crisp pickles, fresh vegetables, and a creamy dressing to create a perfect summertime side dish or light meal.

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta and Meat

  • 1 lb elbow macaroni (or pasta of choice)
  • 1 lb ground beef

Vegetables and Cheese

  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup diced pickles
  • 1/2 cup diced red onion
  • 1 cup shredded lettuce
  • 1/2 cup chopped tomatoes (optional)

Seasoning

  • Salt and pepper to taste

Dressing

  • For a classic Big Mac flavor, prepare the dressing (typically mayonnaise, mustard, ketchup, vinegar, and spices). Since the original recipe text doesn’t specify, assume:
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 2 tbsp ketchup
  • 1 tbsp yellow mustard
  • 1 tsp white vinegar
  • 1 tsp sugar
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Cook Pasta: Cook the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain thoroughly and rinse under cold water to halt the cooking process. Set aside to cool.
  2. Prepare Ground Beef: In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked through, breaking it apart with a spatula. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Drain off any excess grease and let the beef cool.
  3. Make Dressing: In a large mixing bowl, combine mayonnaise, ketchup, yellow mustard, white vinegar, sugar, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Whisk until smooth and well blended.
  4. Combine Pasta and Beef with Dressing: Add the cooled pasta and cooked ground beef to the bowl with the dressing and stir well to coat all ingredients evenly.
  5. Add Vegetables and Cheese: Gently fold in shredded cheddar cheese, diced pickles, diced red onion, shredded lettuce, and optional chopped tomatoes. Mix carefully to maintain the freshness of the vegetables while ensuring everything is coated with the dressing.
  6. Chill Before Serving: Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld together perfectly before serving.

Notes

  • Use rotini or shells as an alternative pasta to hold dressing better.
  • Customize the dressing to your taste; adding a bit of relish enhances the Big Mac flavor.
  • Add crumbled bacon or shredded cheese varieties for extra richness.
  • Make ahead and refrigerate up to 24 hours for best flavor absorption.
  • Serve chilled as a side dish to barbecues, picnics, or casual dinners.

Nutrition

Keywords: Big Mac Pasta Salad, Macaroni Salad, Ground Beef Salad, Summer Salad, Picnic Dish

Find it online: https://platedandproud.com/big-mac-pasta-salad-recipe/