If you’re looking for a satisfying meal that skips the carbs but keeps all the flavor, this salad is for you. It’s quick to make, super customizable, and hits all the right notes with its rich beef, crunchy toppings, and addictive burger-style dressing. Whether you’re on a keto diet or just looking for a lighter take on a fast-food favorite, the Smash Burger Salad is a must-try.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
ground beef salt and pepper garlic powder iceberg or romaine lettuce cherry tomatoes red onion dill pickles shredded cheddar cheese
For the dressing (burger sauce): mayonnaise ketchup mustard pickle juice garlic powder paprika optional: hot sauce
Directions
In a skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef, breaking it up with a spatula. Season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Cook until browned and crispy on the edges.
While the beef cooks, prepare the salad base. Chop the lettuce, halve the cherry tomatoes, thinly slice the red onion, and slice the pickles.
In a small bowl, mix together the dressing ingredients: mayonnaise, ketchup, mustard, pickle juice, garlic powder, paprika, and hot sauce if using. Stir until smooth.
Assemble the salad by layering the lettuce in a bowl or plate. Top with cherry tomatoes, red onion, pickles, shredded cheddar cheese, and cooked beef.
Drizzle the burger sauce over the salad and serve immediately.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes 4 servings. Prep Time: 10 minutes Cook Time: 10 minutes Total Time: 20 minutes
Variations
Use ground turkey or chicken for a leaner version.
Add avocado slices for creaminess.
Swap cheddar for pepper jack or American cheese.
Use grilled burger patties instead of crumbled beef for a different texture.
For extra crunch, toss in some crispy onions or air-fried croutons (if not keeping it low-carb).
Storage/Reheating
Store leftover components separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. Keep the dressing and toppings like cheese for best texture. Reheat the beef in a skillet or microwave before serving. Assemble fresh before eating for optimal crunch and flavor.
FAQs
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, prep the ingredients in advance but keep them separate until ready to serve. Assemble just before eating to maintain freshness.
Is this salad keto-friendly?
Yes, it’s naturally low in carbs, especially if you skip the ketchup or use a sugar-free version.
Can I use pre-cooked burger patties?
Absolutely. Just chop or crumble them and heat before adding to the salad.
What lettuce works best for this salad?
Iceberg or romaine are great for their crispness and ability to hold up to toppings.
Is the burger sauce spicy?
It’s mildly tangy and creamy, but you can adjust the heat by adding hot sauce to taste.
Can I add fries or tater tots for fun?
Yes, if you’re not watching carbs, adding crispy fries or tots can make it feel more like a full burger meal.
What can I use instead of pickle juice in the dressing?
You can use vinegar (like apple cider vinegar) for a similar tang, but pickle juice adds classic burger flavor.
How do I store leftovers?
Store all salad components separately and combine just before serving. The beef can be reheated, but the lettuce and dressing should be kept cold.
What cheese works best for this salad?
Sharp cheddar is classic, but feel free to try American, Swiss, or even blue cheese if you like bolder flavors.
Conclusion
The Smash Burger Salad is the ultimate way to enjoy all the flavors of your favorite burger in a lighter, fresher form. It’s fast, flexible, and full of bold, satisfying taste. Whether you’re craving something hearty without the bun or looking for a new go-to salad recipe, this one is a guaranteed hit.
The Smash Burger Salad is a hearty, low-carb dish that delivers all the classic flavors of a smash burger — seasoned ground beef, crisp lettuce, juicy tomatoes, pickles, cheddar cheese, and a tangy special sauce — in salad form, no bun required.
Ingredients
1 lb ground beef
Salt and pepper to taste
1/2 tsp garlic powder
6 cups iceberg or romaine lettuce, chopped
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
1/3 cup dill pickles, sliced
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
For the dressing (burger sauce):
1/2 cup mayonnaise
2 tbsp ketchup (sugar-free if keto)
1 tbsp yellow mustard
1 tbsp pickle juice
1/4 tsp garlic powder
1/4 tsp paprika
Optional: hot sauce to taste
Instructions
In a skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef, breaking it up with a spatula.
Season the beef with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Cook until browned and crispy on the edges.
While the beef cooks, prepare the salad base: chop lettuce, halve cherry tomatoes, slice red onion and pickles.
In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, ketchup, mustard, pickle juice, garlic powder, paprika, and hot sauce if using to make the dressing.
Assemble the salad by placing lettuce in bowls or plates.
Top with cherry tomatoes, red onion, pickles, shredded cheddar cheese, and cooked beef.
Drizzle with the burger sauce and serve immediately.
Notes
Use ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.Avocado slices add extra creaminess and healthy fats. Pre-cooked burger patties can be chopped and used instead of ground beef.Swap cheddar with pepper jack or American cheese for variety.Keep components separate for meal prep; assemble fresh for best texture.
