🖋️ Written by Olivia
There’s something about fast food nostalgia that never fades. Growing up, Friday nights were all about grabbing burgers and fries with my family—and nothing beat that classic Big Mac flavor. But let’s be honest: the carb crash afterward? Not so fun.
That’s exactly why I started making this Low Carb Keto Big Mac Salad at home. It’s got all the flavors I loved—juicy beef, creamy sauce, crunchy pickles—without the bun or the bloat. And now? My family begs for it just as much as the real thing.
Whether you’re on keto, eating gluten-free, or just want a fast meal that feels indulgent, this salad nails it. It’s fresh, filling, and takes under 20 minutes. Oh, and if you love low-carb wins like this one, don’t miss our Keto Tuna Melt Poppers and Gluten-Free Chicken Taquitos—they’re equally game-changing.
Ready to make your burger dreams come true? Let’s go.
Low Carb Keto Big Mac Salad Flavor Without the Bun
Craving that fast-food flavor without wrecking your macros? This Low Carb Keto Big Mac Salad delivers every bite of satisfaction without the carb crash. From seasoned ground beef to sharp cheddar and that iconic tangy dressing, it tastes like the real deal—but better for you.
The star of the show is the homemade keto-friendly version of the “special sauce.” It’s creamy, zesty, and made without the hidden sugars found in fast-food versions. Pair that with crispy lettuce, crunchy pickles, and juicy beef, and you’ve got a low-carb lunch or dinner that keeps you full for hours.
If you’ve tried our Keto Crack Chicken in the Crock Pot or Keto Tuna Melt Poppers, you know we don’t mess around when it comes to keto flavor bombs.
Fast, Easy, and Totally Satisfying
You don’t need a chef’s skills or a long grocery list to make this salad. Everything comes together in under 20 minutes, using just a handful of ingredients. It’s the perfect solution for busy weeknights, lazy Sundays, or anytime you want real food fast.
Here’s why it works:
- One skillet, one bowl—minimal cleanup
- No fancy tools needed
- Budget-friendly ingredients
- Customizable for picky eaters and macro goals
Pro tip: For extra crunch, toss in some air-fried cheese crisps or crushed Low Carb Grilled Cheese Burrito leftovers.
It’s not just a keto salad, it’s your answer to cravings—without compromise.
How to Make Low Carb Keto Big Mac Salad: Step-by-Step
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 for flavor)
- 1 head iceberg lettuce (or romaine), chopped
- ½ cup diced pickles
- ¼ cup diced white onion
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ¼ cup sugar-free Thousand Island dressing
- 1 tbsp mustard (yellow or Dijon)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Sesame seeds (optional, for that classic look)
Instructions
Step 1 – Cook the beef
Brown your ground beef over medium heat. Crumble it as it cooks. Drain some fat (not all—it adds flavor).
Step 2 – Season the beef
Add garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir and set aside.
Step 3 – Prep the veggies
Dice lettuce, pickles, and onion. Toss them into a big mixing bowl.
Step 4 – Make the dressing
Mix the Thousand Island dressing with mustard. Taste it. Add more mustard if you like a punchier bite.
Step 5 – Assemble the salad
Add your seasoned beef to the veggies. Drizzle on the sauce. Toss gently. Sprinkle on shredded cheese and sesame seeds.
Step 6 – Serve fresh
Eat immediately. If you wait too long, someone will steal your bowl.
How to Store This Salad
- Store ingredients separately if you’re meal-prepping.
- Keep the dressing in a jar and the beef in an airtight container.
- When ready to eat, reheat the beef and toss everything together.
Want more prep-friendly ideas? Our Low Carb Grilled Cheese Burrito also stores beautifully.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the beef: Dry, rubbery beef ruins the vibe. Cook just until no pink remains.
- Skipping the pickles: They’re non-negotiable. Trust us.
- Drowning it in sauce: Start with a little, then add more.
You can’t undo a sauce avalanche.
- Using wilted lettuce: Crisp lettuce = crunch heaven. Soggy lettuce = sadness.
Alternatives
No Thousand Island? Mix mayo, sugar-free ketchup, and relish for a quick hack.
Vegetarian? Swap beef for crumbled tofu or tempeh. Dairy-free?
Skip the cheese or use a plant-based version. Want more heat? Add jalapeños or hot sauce.
The world is your low-carb oyster.
🔹 FAQs About Low Carb Keto Big Mac Salad
What is a Low Carb Keto Big Mac Salad made of?
It includes ground beef, lettuce, pickles, onions, cheddar cheese, and a sugar-free “special sauce” to mimic Big Mac flavors—without the bun or carbs.
How many carbs are in a Keto Big Mac Salad?
Most versions have between 5 to 7 net carbs per serving, depending on your brand of dressing and cheese. Always check labels to track your exact macros.
Can I meal prep a Low Carb Big Mac Salad?
Yes. Store the beef, vegetables, and dressing separately. Assemble just before eating to keep it fresh and avoid soggy lettuce.
Is Thousand Island dressing keto?
Traditional store-bought versions often contain sugar. Look for sugar-free options or make your own with mayo, sugar-free ketchup, and pickle relish.
What can I use instead of beef in this keto salad?
Ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based crumbles can be used. Just adjust seasoning and fat content to stay keto.
Can I eat this salad on a strict ketogenic diet?
Absolutely. It’s high in fat, moderate in protein, and low in carbs—making it perfect for keto meal plans.
How do I make the keto Big Mac sauce from scratch?
Mix mayonnaise, sugar-free ketchup, pickle relish, mustard, garlic powder, and a dash of vinegar or paprika for a tangy homemade version.
What are some low-carb toppings to add to this salad?
Avocado, crispy bacon, jalapeños, or shredded cabbage all work well to boost fat content and crunch.
How do I keep my lettuce from getting soggy?
Use dry, freshly chopped lettuce and store dressing separately until ready to serve. Romaine or iceberg holds up best.
Is this salad gluten-free?
Yes, as long as all ingredients (especially the dressing) are certified gluten-free. It contains no bread or wheat products.
Can I freeze the cooked beef for later use?
Yes. Cook and cool the beef, then store in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 2 months. Thaw and reheat as needed.
What makes this salad taste like a Big Mac without the bun?
It’s the combination of seasoned beef, pickles, onions, cheddar, and that iconic sauce. You get all the flavor, minus the bun and carbs.
Final Thoughts
This Low Carb Keto Big Mac Salad is proof that eating healthy doesn’t mean sacrificing flavor. It’s fast, filling, and tastes like a cheat meal—without the guilt.
Make it once, and you’ll never look at a drive-thru the same way again. Now go forth and salad.
Hungry for more? Discover fresh recipes every day on BestyRecipe’s Pinterest & Facebook!
