why make this recipe
Big Mac Pasta Salad brings the beloved flavors of a classic Big Mac burger into a fun and satisfying pasta dish. It’s a great choice for potlucks, picnics, or just a hearty family dinner. This recipe combines the taste of the iconic burger with easy-to-make pasta, making it a hit with both kids and adults alike. Plus, it’s packed with fresh ingredients, making it a delicious and filling meal that everyone will love.
how to make Big Mac Pasta Salad
Ingredients:
- 8 oz elbow macaroni
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup diced pickles
- 1 cup shredded lettuce
- 1 cup diced tomatoes
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 1 tbsp yellow mustard
- 1 tbsp white vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions:
- Cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and let cool.
- In a skillet, brown the ground beef until fully cooked, then drain excess fat.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooled macaroni, cooked ground beef, diced pickles, shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, and shredded cheddar cheese.
- In a separate bowl, mix together mayonnaise, ketchup, mustard, vinegar, salt, and pepper to create the dressing.
- Pour the dressing over the pasta salad and toss to combine.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving. Enjoy!
how to serve Big Mac Pasta Salad
Serve Big Mac Pasta Salad cold as a side dish or main dish. It pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, burgers, or even as a standalone meal. You can also garnish it with extra shredded lettuce or cheese on top for added freshness.
how to store Big Mac Pasta Salad
Store any leftover Big Mac Pasta Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to three days. Make sure to stir it well before serving again, as the dressing may settle.
tips to make Big Mac Pasta Salad
- Make sure to let the cooked macaroni cool completely before mixing it with other ingredients to prevent wilted lettuce.
- You can adjust the dressing ingredients to suit your taste; add more mustard if you like a tangier flavor.
- Feel free to add more veggies like onions or bell peppers for an extra crunch.
variation
You can easily customize Big Mac Pasta Salad by adding bacon bits or swapping the ground beef for ground turkey or a plant-based meat substitute to make it healthier or vegetarian.
FAQs
Can I make this pasta salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can make it a day in advance. Just keep it stored in the fridge until you’re ready to serve.
What can I serve with Big Mac Pasta Salad?
This salad pairs well with grilled chicken, burgers, or hot dogs. It’s also great on its own as a light meal.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! This pasta salad is perfect for meal prep. Just portion it into containers and store it in the refrigerator for quick lunches or easy dinners throughout the week.
Big Mac Pasta Salad
Ingredients
Pasta and Meats
- 8 oz elbow macaroni
- 1 lb ground beef Can substitute with ground turkey or plant-based meat for variations.
Vegetables and Toppings
- 1 cup diced pickles
- 1 cup shredded lettuce Ensure it's fresh and crisp.
- 1 cup diced tomatoes Fresh tomatoes are recommended.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Dressing
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 1 tbsp yellow mustard Adjust for tangier flavor.
- 1 tbsp white vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Preparation
- Cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and let cool.
- In a skillet, brown the ground beef until fully cooked, then drain excess fat.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooled macaroni, cooked ground beef, diced pickles, shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, and shredded cheddar cheese.
Making the Dressing
- In a separate bowl, mix together mayonnaise, ketchup, mustard, vinegar, salt, and pepper to create the dressing.
Combining
- Pour the dressing over the pasta salad and toss to combine.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.