Big Mac Salad Recipe: Best 10-Min Keto Meal (Low-Carb!)

Craving the bold flavors of a Big Mac without the guilt? This Big Mac Salad is your dream come true — a plant-based version of the fast food classic turned into a nourishing bowl. It packs all the iconic tastes you love, from tangy pickles to savory vegan ground beef, layered over crisp lettuce and drizzled with a creamy, dairy-free sauce.

Perfect for busy days, this low-carb Big Mac bowl is not only vegan and keto-friendly, but also ready in just 10 minutes. Whether you’re following a plant-based lifestyle or simply looking for a healthier twist on your favorite burger, this quick and satisfying salad delivers all the comfort with none of the compromise. For more plant-based meal ideas, explore our vegan recipes collection.

Why You’ll Love This Big Mac Salad

1. Plant-Based and Dairy-Free

Unlike the traditional version, this Big Mac Salad is entirely plant-based and free from dairy. It’s made with wholesome ingredients like vegan ground beef, dairy-free cheese, and a creamy cashew or vegan mayo-based sauce. Whether you’re fully vegan or simply avoiding animal products, this salad delivers rich, indulgent flavor without compromise. Try pairing it with our vegan bang bang sauce for an extra flavor kick.

2. Keto and Low-Carb

Looking for a meal that keeps carbs low without sacrificing taste? This low-carb Big Mac bowl skips the bun but keeps all the flavor. It’s perfect for those following a keto lifestyle or watching their carb intake, offering a delicious alternative to traditional fast food without the carb crash. Check out our keto sub in a tub recipe for another low-carb meal idea.

3. High Protein with Vegan Ground Beef

This salad isn’t just satisfying—it’s packed with plant-based protein. The use of vegan ground beef (or a high-protein lentil or walnut mix) makes this Big Mac Salad hearty enough for lunch or dinner. Add some nutritional yeast or hemp seeds, and you’ve got a powerful, protein-rich meal that fuels you through the day. For another protein-packed option, try our best protein cookie recipe.

4. Meal-Prep Friendly

One of the best things about this recipe? It’s easy to prep in advance. Store the components separately—salad in one container, sauce in another—and you’ve got a ready-to-go meal for the week. It’s perfect for busy schedules and makes sticking to your plant-based or keto goals even easier. Use these meal prep containers to keep your ingredients fresh.

5. Quick 10-Minute Lunch or Dinner Idea

Short on time? No problem. This Big Mac Salad comes together in just 10 minutes, making it an ideal solution for fast, wholesome meals. Whether you’re making lunch between meetings or need a speedy dinner after a long day, this recipe is a go-to you’ll want to make again and again. For another quick meal, try our how to make taco dip.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Making a Big Mac Salad at home is all about using fresh, plant-based staples that come together quickly and taste incredible. Here’s what you’ll need to build your bowl:

• Chopped lettuce – Crisp iceberg or romaine lettuce forms the perfect base, giving this Big Mac Salad that signature crunch.
• Vegan ground beef or lentil-walnut mix – For a hearty, meaty texture without animal products. Use your favorite plant-based meat brand or make your own with cooked lentils, walnuts, and spices.
• Vegan cheese (optional) – Adds a melty, indulgent layer of flavor. Choose a dairy-free shredded cheddar or American-style alternative.
• Pickles – A must-have for that classic Big Mac tang. Use chopped dill pickles or pickle slices to add a sharp bite.
• Cherry tomatoes – Juicy and sweet, these brighten up the salad and add color, balancing the savory elements.
• Red onions – Thinly sliced for a mild kick and extra crunch in every bite.
• Dairy-free Big Mac sauce – The star of the show. This creamy, tangy dressing ties everything together and brings authentic flavor to your plant-based bowl.

For a perfectly crisp salad, consider using a salad spinner to dry your lettuce thoroughly.

How to Make Vegan Big Mac Sauce

1. Start with a base of cashew mayo or vegan mayo. Choose your favorite plant-based mayo. Cashew mayo offers a homemade, whole-food option, while store-bought vegan mayo works just as well for convenience.
2. Add a teaspoon of mustard. This gives the sauce a zesty kick and adds depth to the flavor, just like in the original Big Mac dressing.
3. Mix in apple cider vinegar. A splash of apple cider vinegar brings acidity and brightness to balance the creamy base.
4. Stir in a dash of coconut aminos. Coconut aminos provide a touch of sweetness and umami, making the sauce more complex and satisfying.
5. Season with onion powder and garlic powder. These pantry staples add classic savory notes that enhance the “burger” taste of your Big Mac Salad.
6. Finish with smoked paprika. A pinch of smoked paprika adds warmth and subtle smokiness, rounding out the flavor beautifully.

Once combined, whisk everything until smooth and creamy. This vegan Big Mac sauce pairs perfectly with the rest of your Big Mac Salad ingredients, offering that nostalgic flavor in a fully plant-based and wholesome way. For another creamy vegan sauce, try our vegan hidden valley ranch dip.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prep your veggies. Wash and chop the lettuce, halve the cherry tomatoes, slice the red onions, and dice the pickles. For extra crunch, keep the lettuce cold until serving.

         Pro tip: Use a salad spinner to keep lettuce crisp and dry — soggy greens can water down your salad.

1. Cook your vegan ground beef or mix. In a skillet over medium heat, cook your plant-based ground beef until heated through and slightly browned (about 5–7 minutes).

         Substitute idea: No vegan meat on hand? Use a quick lentil-walnut mix with spices like smoked paprika and soy-free seasoning for a              whole-food option.

1. Make the vegan Big Mac sauce. While the protein cooks, prepare your sauce using cashew mayo (or vegan mayo), mustard, apple cider vinegar, coconut aminos, onion powder, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. Whisk until smooth.

         Mistake to avoid: Don’t skip the vinegar — it brings balance and brightness to the creamy base.

1. Assemble your Big Mac Salad. In a large bowl or plate, layer chopped lettuce, cooked vegan ground beef, tomatoes, onions, pickles, and vegan cheese (optional). Drizzle generously with your homemade vegan Big Mac sauce.

         Pro tip: Serve sauce on the side if meal prepping, to keep your salad fresh throughout the week.

1. Serve and enjoy immediately. This Big Mac Salad is best served fresh, but can be stored in meal-prep containers for up to 3 days. Keep the sauce and salad separate for maximum freshness.

For another hearty salad option, check out our irresistible burger bowl recipes.

Expert Tips for the Best Big Mac Salad

1. Store Salad and Sauce Separately

If you’re prepping this meal ahead of time, keep the chopped veggies and cooked vegan ground beef in one container and the Big Mac sauce in another. This prevents the greens from getting soggy and keeps every bite crisp and delicious when you’re ready to eat.

Pro tip: Use small jars or dressing cups for the sauce when packing lunches.

2. Make It High-Protein

Boost the protein power of your Big Mac Salad by swapping or combining ingredients like tofu crumbles, seasoned tempeh, or roasted chickpeas. These whole-food additions deliver texture and nutritional value while keeping the salad hearty and satisfying.

Pro tip: Marinate tofu or tempeh in a smoky spice blend before sautéing for maximum flavor. Try our high-protein slow cooker recipes for more ideas.

3. Add Texture for Extra Crunch

For a more exciting bite, toss in a handful of sunflower seeds or shredded carrots. These simple add-ins give your salad a satisfying crunch and an extra layer of color and nutrients.

Pro tip: Roasted sunflower seeds also provide healthy fats and a nutty finish that pairs well with the tangy sauce.

4. Spice It Up with a Sriracha Drizzle

Want to turn up the heat? Add a drizzle of sriracha or your favorite hot sauce right before serving. It adds bold flavor without overpowering the classic taste of your Big Mac Salad.

Pro tip: Mix a little sriracha directly into the Big Mac sauce for a creamy, spicy twist. For another spicy option, try our adobo sauce recipe.

FAQs

1. Is this Big Mac Salad actually vegan?

Yes, this Big Mac Salad is 100% vegan and completely plant-based. Instead of traditional beef and dairy, it uses vegan ground meat (or whole-food substitutes like lentils or tofu) and a homemade dairy-free Big Mac sauce made with vegan mayo. It captures the classic burger taste in a fully cruelty-free, plant-powered way.

2. Is Big Mac Salad good for weight loss or keto diets?

Absolutely. This plant-based Big Mac Salad is naturally low in carbs and sugar, making it a great fit for keto-friendly meal plans. It’s also packed with fiber and protein, which helps support weight loss by keeping you full longer without the need for processed carbs or bread. For an ultra-low-carb version, skip the vegan cheese or add extra leafy greens. Explore our lemon balm recipe for weight loss for additional healthy options.

3. Can I use tempeh or tofu instead of mock meat in Big Mac Salad?

Yes! You can substitute mock meat with high-protein options like crumbled tempeh or pan-seared tofu. These whole-food swaps still deliver a hearty texture and work wonderfully with the bold flavors of the Big Mac sauce. Marinating the tofu or tempeh in smoky spices helps replicate the savory, umami-rich flavor you’d expect in a traditional burger bowl.

4. What brand of vegan mayo do you recommend for the Big Mac sauce?

For the most authentic and creamy vegan Big Mac sauce, popular brands like Follow Your Heart, Just Mayo, and Vegenaise work exceptionally well. If you prefer a whole-food version, homemade cashew mayo is a great clean alternative and pairs perfectly with the rest of the Big Mac Salad ingredients. For another vegan cheese sauce option, try our vegan baked mac and cheese recipe.

Conclusion

If you’re craving bold, nostalgic flavors without the guilt, this Big Mac Salad is a total game-changer. It brings all the taste of a classic fast food burger into a fast, healthy, and completely vegan bowl — and the best part? It comes together in just 10 minutes.

Whether you’re following a plant-based lifestyle, eating low-carb, or simply looking for a satisfying and protein-packed meal, this Big Mac Salad delivers every time. It’s perfect for busy lunches, easy dinners, or meal prep for the week ahead. For more quick and delicious vegan meals, check out our swamp soup recipe.

Tried it? We’d love to hear how you made it your own! Drop a comment below or share your version on social media and tag us. Your feedback helps others discover this delicious twist on a plant-based favorite.