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Big Mac Pasta Salad

Big Mac Pasta Salad: The Ultimate Summer Comfort Dish

Enjoy a delicious twist on a classic with this Big Mac Pasta Salad, packed with flavor and perfect for summer gatherings.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Chilling Time 2 hours
Total Time 2 hours 50 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Salads
Cuisine: American
Calories: 300

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta Base
  • 12 ounces Rotini Pasta Can be swapped with short pasta like shells or farfalle for variation.
  • 1 pound Ground Beef Consider using ground turkey for a leaner alternative.
For the Dressing
  • 1 cup Mayonnaise Greek yogurt can be a healthier substitute.
  • 1/4 cup Ketchup Feel free to replace with barbecue sauce for a smoky twist.
  • 2 tablespoons Yellow Mustard Dijon mustard can be used for a more robust flavor.
  • 2 tablespoons Dill Pickle Juice Pickle relish makes a good substitute.
  • 1 teaspoon Onion Powder Fresh minced onion can be used for bolder flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder Use fresh minced garlic for more intensity.
  • 1 teaspoon Smoked Paprika Regular paprika may be used if you prefer a milder taste.
For the Mix-Ins
  • 1 cup Dill Pickles Other tangy pickles can work as substitutes.
  • 1 cup Shredded Cheddar Cheese Feel free to swap with mozzarella or Monterey Jack cheese.
  • 2 cups Shredded Iceberg Lettuce Use any lettuce variety but add right before serving.
  • 1 cup French Fried Onions Crushed chips can also bring a unique texture.

Equipment

  • Large skillet
  • Pot
  • Mixing bowl
  • baking sheet

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. In a large skillet, heat the pan over medium heat and add 1 pound of ground beef. Sauté for about 8-10 minutes, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon until browned and fully cooked. Drain the grease carefully and transfer the beef to a plate to cool slightly.
  2. While the beef is cooling, bring a substantial pot of salted water to a boil. Cook 12 ounces of rotini pasta according to package directions, typically around 8-10 minutes, until al dente. Once done, drain the pasta and rinse under cold water.
  3. In a medium mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of mayonnaise, ¼ cup of ketchup, 2 tablespoons of yellow mustard, and 2 tablespoons of dill pickle juice. Add 1 teaspoon each of onion powder, garlic powder, and smoked paprika; season to taste with salt and pepper. Whisk until smooth and creamy.
  4. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled rotini pasta, browned ground beef, and 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese. Gently mix the ingredients together.
  5. Pour the prepared dressing over the pasta mixture and toss thoroughly to coat each piece evenly. Cover the bowl and let the salad chill in the refrigerator for 1-2 hours.
  6. Just before serving, fold in 2 cups of shredded iceberg lettuce and 1 cup of French fried onions. Mix gently to combine without wilting the lettuce.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 300kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 15gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 2gCholesterol: 50mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 400mgFiber: 2gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 10IUVitamin C: 8mgCalcium: 15mgIron: 10mg

Notes

For best results, store shredded lettuce and onions separately until serving to maintain their crunch. Avoid freezing the salad due to the creamy dressing's texture.

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