why make this recipe
Big Mac Pasta Salad is a fun and delicious twist on the classic Big Mac burger. It combines all your favorite flavors from the famous fast-food sandwich into a refreshing pasta salad. This dish is perfect for cookouts, picnics, or just a simple weeknight dinner. It’s easy to make and can be a hit with both kids and adults. Plus, you can prepare it ahead of time, which makes it a convenient option for busy days.
how to make Big Mac Pasta Salad
Ingredients :
- 2 cups pasta
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup shredded lettuce
- 1 cup diced tomatoes
- 1/2 cup diced pickles
- 1/2 cup cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 1 tablespoon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions :
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions; drain and cool.
- In a skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat and season with salt and pepper. Drain excess fat.
- In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, ground beef, lettuce, tomatoes, pickles, and cheese.
- In a separate bowl, mix mayonnaise, ketchup, and mustard together.
- Pour the dressing over the pasta salad and toss to combine.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
how to serve Big Mac Pasta Salad
You can serve Big Mac Pasta Salad in individual bowls or on a large platter. Garnish with a little extra shredded lettuce on top to make it look nice. This salad goes well with garlic bread or grilled burgers and hot dogs. It’s perfect for parties, game days, or any gathering!
how to store Big Mac Pasta Salad
Store any leftover Big Mac Pasta Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It should stay fresh for about 3 to 4 days. Just give it a good stir before serving again to mix the dressing back in.
tips to make Big Mac Pasta Salad
- You can use any type of pasta you like, such as rotini or penne.
- Add more veggies like onions or bell peppers for extra crunch and flavor.
- For a lighter version, you can substitute Greek yogurt for mayonnaise.
- Serve it with extra dressing on the side for those who want more flavor.
variation
You can easily make this recipe vegetarian by replacing the ground beef with cooked lentils or a plant-based meat alternative. You can also add in your favorite cheeseburger toppings like bacon bits or avocado for added taste.
FAQs
Can I make this pasta salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare Big Mac Pasta Salad a day in advance. Just keep it covered in the fridge until you’re ready to serve.
What type of pasta works best?
You can use any short pasta like rotini, penne, or fusilli. They hold up well and mix nicely with the other ingredients.
Can I freeze Big Mac Pasta Salad?
It’s not recommended to freeze this pasta salad because the veggies and dressing may not hold up well in the freezer. It’s best enjoyed fresh or after a few days in the fridge.
Big Mac Pasta Salad
Ingredients
Method
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions; drain and cool.
- In a skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat and season with salt and pepper. Drain excess fat.
- In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, ground beef, lettuce, tomatoes, pickles, and cheese.
- In a separate bowl, mix mayonnaise, ketchup, and mustard together.
- Pour the dressing over the pasta salad and toss to combine.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.