This Keto Big Mac Salad Bowl is a delicious and low-carb twist on the classic fast-food favorite. Featuring layers of seasoned ground beef, melty cheese, crisp lettuce, and a homemade sugar-free “special sauce,” it’s a quick and satisfying meal perfect for busy weeknights.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Keto-Friendly: Packed with protein and healthy fats, it fits perfectly into a low-carb lifestyle.
Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for weeknight dinners.
Customizable: Adjust the ingredients and toppings to suit your taste.
Comfort Food Makeover: Enjoy the iconic flavors of a Big Mac without the carbs or guilt.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 lb ground beef
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
1/2 tsp paprika
4 oz cream cheese
1 head lettuce, chopped
1 small onion, diced
Pickle chips (as desired)

For the Special Sauce:

1/2 cup mayonnaise
1 1/2 tbsp yellow mustard
1 tbsp dill pickle relish
1 tsp vinegar

Directions

Cook the Ground Beef:
- In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain excess fat.
- Add garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika. Stir in cream cheese until melted and combined. Remove from heat.
Prepare the Special Sauce:
- In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, mustard, dill pickle relish, and vinegar until smooth. Adjust seasoning to taste.
Assemble the Salad:
- In a large bowl, layer chopped lettuce, diced onions, and cooked ground beef.
- Drizzle with special sauce and top with pickle chips.
Serve:
- Toss lightly to combine or serve layered for a fun presentation. Enjoy!

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes

Variations

Cheeseburger Style: Add shredded cheddar cheese or top with melted slices.
Spicy Kick: Mix a dash of hot sauce or cayenne pepper into the special sauce.
Vegetarian Option: Substitute ground beef with a plant-based protein.
Extra Crunch: Top with crumbled pork rinds or toasted nuts for texture.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store the salad components and sauce separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat the beef in a skillet or microwave. Assemble the salad fresh to maintain crispness.

FAQs

1. Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, prepare the components in advance and assemble just before serving for the best texture.

2. Is there a substitute for cream cheese?

Yes, use sour cream or a dollop of heavy cream for a similar creamy texture.

3. Can I use pre-cooked beef?

Certainly! Pre-cooked ground beef can save time; just warm it up with the seasonings.

4. Is the special sauce keto-friendly?

Yes, as long as you use sugar-free mayonnaise and dill pickle relish.

5. Can I add other vegetables?

Absolutely! Tomatoes, cucumbers, or shredded carrots are great additions.

6. What’s the best lettuce for this salad?

Iceberg or Romaine lettuce works best for its crunch and mild flavor.

7. Can I make this spicy?

Add diced jalapeños or mix hot sauce into the beef or special sauce for extra heat.

8. What’s a good side dish for this salad?

Serve with keto-friendly fries or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

9. How do I keep the salad fresh for leftovers?

Store lettuce separately from the beef and sauce to prevent it from wilting.

10. Can I double this recipe for a crowd?

Yes, simply scale up the ingredients proportionally for more servings.

Conclusion

This Keto Big Mac Salad Bowl is a flavorful, satisfying, and guilt-free way to enjoy the classic burger experience. Easy to make and packed with all the right textures and flavors, it’s a must-try for any low-carb enthusiast. Whip it up tonight and savor every bite!