Big Mac-Inspired Pasta Salad: A Delicious Twist on a Classic Burger

If you love the bold flavors of a Big Mac, you’re going to fall in love with this pasta salad. Sweet, tangy, and packed with all the familiar textures and tastes of a classic burger, this dish transforms a fast-food favorite into a fresh, family-friendly meal. Perfect for BBQs, potlucks, or weeknight dinners, this pasta salad is both satisfying and easy to make.

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Why You’ll Love This Pasta Salad

This Big Mac-inspired pasta salad captures all the elements of the famous burger but in a lighter, more versatile form. Tender pasta combines with juicy ground beef, crisp lettuce, diced pickles, and cherry tomatoes, all coated in a creamy, flavorful dressing. It’s a meal that’s ready in just over 30 minutes, making it a convenient option for busy households.

Not only is it flavorful, but it’s also fully customizable. You can adjust the sweetness of the dressing, swap in your favorite pasta shapes, or even use non-fat yogurt instead of mayonnaise for a lighter version. Whether served warm or at room temperature, this pasta salad never disappoints.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe calls for simple, everyday ingredients you likely already have on hand:

For the salad:

• 1 lb ground beef, cooked and crumbled
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• 16 oz rotini pasta (fusilli or penne also work well)
• 2 cups diced cheddar cheese
• 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 ½ cups diced dill pickles
• ½ cup diced red onion
• 2 cups shredded lettuce

For the dressing:

• 1 cup mayonnaise
• ¼ cup sweet pickle relish
• 1 ½ tablespoons yellow mustard
• ½ teaspoon apple cider vinegar
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder

How to Make Big Mac Pasta Salad

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Begin by preparing the pasta according to package instructions. Make sure to cook it until al dente, so it holds its shape and texture when mixed with the other ingredients. Once cooked, rinse under cool water and drain thoroughly. Set aside to cool slightly.

Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef

In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked, breaking it into small pieces as it cooks. Drain any excess grease, then season with garlic powder. The seasoned beef adds that savory, meaty component that makes this salad taste like a burger in every bite.

Step 3: Prepare the Dressing

While the pasta and beef are cooking, whisk together the mayonnaise, sweet pickle relish, mustard, apple cider vinegar, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder in a small bowl. This creamy, tangy dressing is the heart of the salad, giving it that unmistakable Big Mac flavor.

Step 4: Combine the Ingredients

In a large serving bowl, toss the cooked pasta, browned beef, and dressing together until everything is evenly coated. Add the diced cheddar, cherry tomatoes, pickles, red onion, and shredded lettuce, folding gently to combine. This layering of textures—creamy, crunchy, and soft—is what makes the salad so irresistible.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

This pasta salad can be served warm, right after mixing, or allowed to sit at room temperature to let the flavors meld together. It’s a versatile dish that pairs perfectly with grilled meats, sandwiches, or as a standalone meal for lunch or dinner.

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Tips for the Best Big Mac Pasta Salad

• Use a sturdy pasta: Rotini, fusilli, or penne hold up well to dressing and won’t turn mushy.
• Adjust the sweetness: If you prefer a sweeter dressing, add 1–2 teaspoons of honey, maple syrup, or sugar to taste.
• Make it ahead: This salad can be prepared a few hours in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Just toss before serving.
• Healthier swap: Substitute non-fat yogurt for mayonnaise for a lighter version without sacrificing creaminess.
• Customization: Feel free to add or swap ingredients like bell peppers, bacon bits, or even shredded carrots to suit your taste.

Storage and Make-Ahead Instructions

Big Mac pasta salad stores well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. It is not recommended to freeze this salad, as the fresh vegetables and dressing may become watery upon thawing. For best results, add lettuce just before serving if preparing ahead of time.

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