Big Mac Pasta Salad (Printable Version)

# What You Need:

→ Pasta

01 - 16 oz (454 g) rotini pasta

→ Beef

02 - 1 lb (454 g) ground beef
03 - Salt and pepper, to taste

→ Vegetables & Add-Ins

04 - 1/2 cup chopped dill pickles
05 - 1 cup shredded iceberg lettuce
06 - 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
07 - 1/2 cup diced onion
08 - 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese

→ Dressing

09 - 3/4 cup mayonnaise
10 - 1/4 cup ketchup
11 - 2 tbsp yellow mustard
12 - 2 tbsp pickle juice
13 - Salt and pepper, to taste

# Steps to Follow:

01 - Cook the rotini pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop cooking. Set aside to cool completely.
02 - In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until fully browned, breaking it into small crumbles. Season with salt and pepper. Drain excess fat and let cool to room temperature.
03 - In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, cooked ground beef, chopped pickles, shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, diced onion, and shredded cheddar cheese.
04 - In a separate small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, ketchup, yellow mustard, pickle juice, and additional salt and pepper to taste until smooth.
05 - Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture. Gently toss until everything is evenly coated.
06 - Cover and chill the pasta salad in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.
07 - Toss again before serving. Garnish with extra shredded lettuce, pickles, or cheese if desired.

# Additional Notes:

01 - For extra crunch, add sesame seeds before serving.
02 - Substitute ground turkey or plant-based ground beef for a lighter or vegetarian version.
03 - Romaine lettuce can be used instead of iceberg.
04 - Serve alongside French fries or potato chips for a classic burger experience.
05 - Pairs well with a crisp lager or iced tea.