Go Back

Big Mac Pasta Salad

This lighter Big Mac Pasta Salad combines nostalgic flavors with fresh ingredients, perfect for summer gatherings and meal prep.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Main Course, Salad
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Pasta and Protein
  • 10 oz medium size pasta, uncooked Use whole wheat pasta for a healthier option.
  • 1 lb ground chicken Can substitute with ground turkey or a plant-based alternative.
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
Vegetables and Dressing
  • 2 tsp olive oil, divided
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 1 small head iceberg lettuce, shredded
  • 1/2 cup pickles, chopped
  • 3/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
  • 1/4 cup mayo
  • 2 tbsp ketchup
  • 1.5 tbsp mustard
  • 1-2 tbsp pickle juice
  • 1/2 tsp paprika

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Cook the pasta al dente according to package instructions, then drain and set aside to cool slightly.
  2. In a medium skillet over medium heat, sauté the diced onions in 1 tsp of olive oil for about 5 minutes until they are translucent. Remove from heat and set aside.
  3. In the same skillet, add the remaining olive oil and cook the ground chicken until it's no longer pink, seasoning with salt, garlic powder, and onion powder.
  4. For the dressing, whisk together the Greek yogurt, mayo, ketchup, mustard, pickle juice, and paprika until smooth. Adjust taste as needed.
  5. In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta, shredded lettuce, cooked chicken, sautéed onions, cheddar cheese, and chopped pickles. Toss everything together with the dressing until well mixed.

Notes

This pasta salad keeps well in the refrigerator for about 3-4 days. Consider freezing portions, but note that the texture of the lettuce may change upon thawing. For the best results, allow the salad to chill for at least an hour before serving.