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Big Mac Pasta Salad Recipe

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★★★★★

4.8 from 55 reviews

Big Mac Pasta Salad is a delicious twist on the classic burger flavors combined into a fresh and hearty pasta salad. Featuring seasoned ground beef, chickpea pasta, crisp romaine, tangy pickles, and a creamy, savory dressing inspired by Big Mac sauce, this recipe offers a satisfying and protein-rich meal with a perfect balance of flavors and textures.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Salad

  • 1 pound ground beef (can substitute with lean ground turkey)
  • 8 ounces chickpea pasta (gluten-free option)
  • 1 cup grape tomatoes (can substitute with cherry tomatoes)
  • 2 cups romaine lettuce (can use mixed greens)
  • 1 small red onion (can substitute with green onions)
  • 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese (optional to omit or use dairy-free cheese)
  • 1 cup dill pickles (can use sweet pickles)

For the Dressing

  • 1 cup Greek yogurt (can substitute with sour cream or non-dairy yogurt)
  • 1/4 cup light mayonnaise (can substitute with avocado)
  • 2 tablespoons ketchup (can use sugar-free)
  • 1 tablespoon yellow mustard (Dijon mustard adds extra flavor)
  • 2 tablespoons dill pickle juice (can use lemon juice)
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 tablespoon white sesame seeds (optional garnish)

Instructions

  1. Cook the Ground Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef. Cook, stirring frequently, for about 8-10 minutes until browned and no longer pink. Stir in Worcestershire sauce, mix well, then remove from heat and let cool.
  2. Cook the Pasta: Bring a pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the chickpea pasta and cook according to package instructions for 7-9 minutes until al dente. Drain and rinse the pasta under cold water to stop cooking and cool it.
  3. Prep Vegetables: Halve the grape tomatoes, chop the romaine lettuce, dice the red onion, and slice the dill pickles. Set all aside for assembling.
  4. Make the Dressing: In a mixing bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, light mayonnaise, ketchup, yellow mustard, and dill pickle juice until smooth. Add garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika, and mix thoroughly to combine all flavors.
  5. Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, add the cooked chickpea pasta, ground beef, tomatoes, lettuce, red onion, and sharp cheddar cheese. Gently fold to mix everything evenly without crushing the ingredients.
  6. Dress the Salad: Pour the prepared dressing over the salad mixture and toss gently to coat all the ingredients thoroughly while maintaining their texture.
  7. Serve: Garnish the salad with white sesame seeds if using. Serve immediately or refrigerate for about 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld before serving.

Notes

  • Add romaine lettuce just before serving to maintain maximum crunch and freshness.
  • Adjust seasoning in the dressing to personal taste preferences for added flavor intensity.
  • This salad can be served chilled, making it a great option for a make-ahead meal.
  • Ground turkey can be used as a leaner alternative to ground beef without compromising flavor.

Keywords: Big Mac Pasta Salad, ground beef pasta salad, chickpea pasta salad, easy salad recipe, summer pasta salad, creamy dressing pasta salad, American salad recipes

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