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This cheeseburger salad captures the fun of a classic burger in a fresh, bun-free bowl. It is perfect for anyone who loves the flavors of a Big Mac but prefers a lighter, low-carb meal. The recipe comes together in just 20 minutes, making it a quick and satisfying option for busy weeknights or casual lunches.
I first made this when I was craving a burger but didn’t want the heaviness of the bun or fries. It quickly became a favorite that my family requests whenever we want that classic burger taste without the extra carbs.
Ingredients
- Leans ground beef: one and a half pounds browned and drained adds protein and hearty flavor choose lean for a healthier dish
- Iceberg lettuce: six cups chopped provides a crisp and refreshing base for the salad choose fresh and vibrant heads for crunch
- Colby jack cheese: one and a half cups shredded adds creamy, mild flavor opt for freshly shredded cheese whenever possible
- Roma tomatoes: one cup diced bring juicy sweetness balance the savory elements pick firm and ripe tomatoes
- Red onion: one cup sliced adds sharpness and color select firm onions without soft spots
- Dill pickles: half a cup diced offer tang and crunch use good quality pickles with a bright flavor
- Thousand Island dressing: drizzled on top provides the classic Big Mac sauce taste choose your favorite brand or homemade for best results
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Scoop the lettuce:
- Add the chopped six cups of iceberg lettuce into an extra-large serving bowl. Make sure to chop uniformly so every bite is crisp and refreshing.
- Add the cooked beef:
- Sprinkle the browned and drained one and a half pounds of lean ground beef evenly over the lettuce. This adds the hearty, savory taste of a cheeseburger patty without the bun.
- Layer the toppings:
- Sprinkle the shredded one and a half cups of Colby jack cheese over the beef followed by one cup diced ripe Roma tomatoes then one cup sliced red onions and half a cup diced dill pickles. Toss gently to combine the flavors and textures.
- Dress and serve:
- Drizzle Thousand Island dressing over the salad to taste. Feel free to start with a small amount and add more as you like. Serve immediately for the best freshness and texture.
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Thousand Island dressing is my favorite part of this salad since it instantly brings the Big Mac flavors to life. I remember making this for a group of friends who were amazed at how close it tasted to the real thing but without the bun. It became a quick and easy crowd-pleaser from that moment on.
Storage tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days to maintain freshness. Keep the salad components separate if possible to prevent the lettuce from becoming soggy. If you have extra cooked ground beef, it freezes well and can be thawed later to speed up future meal prep.
Ingredient substitutions
Ground turkey or chicken can be used instead of beef for a lighter protein option though the flavor will change slightly. You can swap iceberg lettuce for romaine or mixed greens for added nutrients. Try a different cheese like sharp cheddar or mozzarella if you prefer. For dressing alternatives, a simple homemade mix of ketchup mayonnaise and a touch of pickle juice mimics Thousand Island dressing nicely.
Serving suggestions
Serve this salad as a light stand-alone meal or pair it with crispy baked fries or a fresh fruit salad to round out your lunch or dinner. It can also be made into a fun build-your-own bowl by keeping the toppings separate so everyone gets exactly what they want on their salad.
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Cultural context
The cheeseburger salad is a creative take on the iconic American burger. It embraces the classic flavors from one of the country’s most famous fast-food items but transforms it into a nutritious dish. It reflects a growing trend toward low-carb lifestyles and enjoying nostalgic flavors in a healthier way.
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I prepare the beef ahead of time?
Yes, browning the ground beef in advance and storing it in the fridge or freezer speeds up assembly and maintains flavor.
- → What dressing pairs well with this salad?
Thousand Island dressing complements the savory beef and fresh veggies perfectly, adding a creamy tang.
- → Can I substitute the cheese type?
Colby jack cheese adds mild creaminess, but you can swap it with cheddar or a cheese of your choice for varied flavor.
- → Is this salad suitable for gluten-free diets?
Yes, all ingredients are naturally gluten-free, making it a safe choice for gluten-sensitive individuals.
- → How should leftovers be stored?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator and consume within two days for best freshness.