Ingredients:

  • 3/4 cup Mayonnaise (full fat)
  • 3 Tbsp Dill Pickle Relish
  • 1 Tbsp Yellow Mustard
  • 1 tsp White Vinegar or Apple Cider Vinegar
  • 1/2 tsp Smoked Paprika
  • 1/2 tsp Garlic Powder
  • 1/2 tsp Onion Powder
  • 1–2 Tbsp Water or pickle juice
  • Salt and Black Pepper (To taste)
  • 5 lbs Ground Beef (80/20 mix recommended)
  • 1/2 medium White or Yellow Onion (finely diced)
  • 1 tsp Worcestershire Sauce
  • 1/4 cup Beef Broth or Water
  • 1 large head Iceberg Lettuce (shredded)
  • 1 cup Dill Pickles (sliced or chopped)
  • 4 oz Sharp Cheddar Cheese (cubed or shredded)
  • 1 tsp Sesame Seeds (optional, for garnish)

Instructions:

  1. Prepare the Special Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, relish, mustard, vinegar, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder until smooth.
  2. Adjust Consistency: Add water (or pickle juice) 1 tablespoon at a time until the sauce is pourable but still thick. Season with salt and pepper to taste, then cover and chill while preparing the rest of the ingredients.
  3. Cook the Ground Beef: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and the finely diced onion. Break up the beef and cook until browned and no pink remains, approximately 5–7 minutes.
  4. Drain Fat: Transfer the cooked beef and onions to a colander and drain off any excess fat thoroughly.
  5. Finish the Beef: Return the mixture to the pan. Stir in the Worcestershire sauce, 1/4 cup broth (or water), and the remaining salt and pepper. Cook until the liquid has evaporated, ensuring the beef is intensely seasoned. Set aside to cool slightly.
  6. Prepare the Base: Shred the iceberg lettuce very thinly. Place the lettuce into a large mixing bowl or divide among four individual serving bowls. Ensure pickles and cheese are prepped.
  7. Assemble the Salad: Distribute the slightly warm seasoned beef mixture evenly over the lettuce base. Scatter the chopped pickles and the cheese cubes/shreds over the beef layer.
  8. Dress and Serve: Drizzle a generous amount of the prepared Special Sauce over the top of the salad. Garnish with a pinch of sesame seeds, if using. Serve immediately.