why make this recipe
Big Mac Pasta Salad is a fun and delicious twist on the classic fast-food favorite. It combines all the great flavors of a Big Mac into a pasta salad, making it perfect for picnics, potlucks, or a fun family dinner. It’s easy to make and sure to please everyone’s taste buds. Plus, it’s a great way to enjoy a hearty meal in a light and refreshing format.
how to make Big Mac Pasta Salad
Ingredients:
- 8 oz pasta
- 1 lb ground beef
- 2 cups shredded lettuce
- 1/2 cup diced pickles
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp ketchup
- 2 tbsp mustard
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tbsp sugar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions:
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and let it cool.
- In a skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain excess fat.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta, cooked beef, lettuce, and pickles.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, ketchup, mustard, vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper to make the dressing.
- Pour the dressing over the pasta salad and mix until well combined.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
how to serve Big Mac Pasta Salad
To serve Big Mac Pasta Salad, simply scoop it into bowls or onto plates. It can be enjoyed as a side dish for BBQs or as a main dish for lunch or dinner. You can also garnish it with extra shredded lettuce, diced pickles, or a sprinkle of sesame seeds for that extra touch.
how to store Big Mac Pasta Salad
Store leftover Big Mac Pasta Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for about 3 to 4 days. If you notice the pasta absorbing the dressing, you can mix in a little more mayo or a splash of vinegar when you serve it again.
tips to make Big Mac Pasta Salad
- Make sure to let the pasta cool completely before mixing it with the other ingredients to avoid wilted lettuce.
- For a creamier salad, you can add more mayonnaise or Greek yogurt.
- For extra flavor, consider adding shredded cheese or onions to the salad.
- Serve it cold; chilling enhances the flavors and makes it refreshing.
variation
You can easily customize Big Mac Pasta Salad by adding other ingredients like chopped tomatoes, shredded carrots, or even turkey instead of ground beef. You can also try adding a dash of hot sauce if you like some heat.
FAQs
Q: Can I use a different type of pasta?
A: Yes, you can use any pasta shape you like! Penne, fusilli, or rotini all work well.
Q: Is this salad good for meal prep?
A: Yes, Big Mac Pasta Salad is great for meal prep! Just store it in individual portions so you can grab it easily throughout the week.
Q: Can I make this salad vegan?
A: Absolutely! You can use plant-based ground meat, vegan mayo, and skip the cheese to make it vegan-friendly.
Big Mac Pasta Salad
Ingredients
Pasta and Beef
- 8 oz pasta Any pasta shape can be used, such as penne or rotini.
- 1 lb ground beef Cook until browned.
Vegetables
- 2 cups shredded lettuce Add extra for garnish if desired.
- 1/2 cup diced pickles Use dill pickles for traditional flavor.
Dressing
- 1 cup mayonnaise Can substitute with Greek yogurt for a healthier option.
- 2 tbsp ketchup
- 2 tbsp mustard
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar Adds tanginess to the dressing.
- 1 tbsp sugar Balances the acidity of the dressing.
- to taste Salt and pepper Adjust seasoning according to preference.
Instructions
Preparation
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and let it cool.
- In a skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain excess fat.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta, cooked beef, lettuce, and pickles.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, ketchup, mustard, vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper to make the dressing.
Mixing and Chilling
- Pour the dressing over the pasta salad and mix until well combined.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.