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Flavorful Big Mac Smash Burger Salad Recipe with Creamy Thousand Island Dressing

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A fresh and lighter take on the classic Big Mac, this salad features crispy smashed beef patties, shredded lettuce, melty cheese, pickles, and a creamy homemade Thousand Island dressing. Perfect for a quick, satisfying meal without the bun.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb ground beef, 80/20 blend recommended
  • Salt and black pepper, freshly ground
  • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil or avocado oil
  • 6 cups shredded iceberg lettuce
  • 1 cup diced tomatoes
  • ½ cup finely chopped white onion
  • ½ cup sliced dill pickles
  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • ½ cup mayonnaise
  • 3 tablespoons ketchup
  • 1 tablespoon sweet pickle relish
  • 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Dressing: In a small bowl or jar, combine ½ cup mayonnaise, 3 tablespoons ketchup, 1 tablespoon sweet pickle relish, 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar, 1 teaspoon sugar, and ½ teaspoon garlic powder. Season with salt and pepper. Whisk or shake until smooth. Chill while you prepare the salad.
  2. Shape the Beef Patties: Divide the ground beef into 4 equal portions (about 4 oz each). Roll each portion loosely into a ball without overworking the meat. Season both sides generously with salt and pepper.
  3. Cook the Smash Burgers: Heat a cast iron skillet or heavy pan over medium-high heat and add 1 tablespoon oil. Once hot, place one beef ball in the pan. Using a spatula or burger press, smash it down firmly to about ¼-inch thickness. Cook undisturbed for 2-3 minutes until edges are brown and crispy. Flip and cook another 1-2 minutes until fully cooked. Repeat with remaining patties.
  4. Assemble the Salad Base: Mix shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, chopped onions, sliced pickles, and shredded cheddar cheese in a large bowl. Toss lightly to combine.
  5. Combine and Serve: Slice or crumble the cooked smash burger patties over the salad. Drizzle the creamy Thousand Island dressing generously on top. Toss gently or serve with dressing on the side.

Notes

Use a hot pan to get a crispy crust on the patties. Do not overcrowd the pan. Season patties just before cooking to keep them juicy. Let the dressing rest in the fridge for 15 minutes to meld flavors. Reheat patties in a skillet to maintain crisp edges; avoid microwaving.

Nutrition

Keywords: Big Mac salad, smash burger salad, Thousand Island dressing, low carb salad, quick dinner, burger without bun

Find it online: https://blingbite.com/flavorful-big-mac-smash-burger-salad-recipe-with-creamy-thousand-island-dressing-easy-and-perfect/