If you love the classic flavors of a Big Mac but are looking for a fun, comforting twist, this Big Mac Casserole Recipe is going to be your new go-to dinner. Combining all those iconic tastes—savory ground beef, tangy pickles, melty cheddar cheese, and that trademark sauce—into one easy, cheesy baked dish, it simplifies your favorite burger into a satisfying casserole that’s perfect for feeding family or friends. It’s a crowd-pleaser with familiar flavors, but the cozy, layered approach makes it feel like something entirely special.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward but each plays an essential role in recreating the delicious profile of a Big Mac in casserole form. From the juicy ground beef to the crisp veggies and creamy sauce, they come together to balance taste, texture, and color perfectly.
- 1 lb ground beef: The hearty base that gives this dish its meaty, satisfying flavor.
- 1 onion, diced: Adds sweetness and a mild bite when cooked with the beef.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Brings gooey richness and a sharp finish.
- 1 cup shredded lettuce: Provides fresh crunch and vibrant green color.
- 1 cup diced pickles: The tangy punch that reminds you of that classic Big Mac zest.
- 1 cup diced tomatoes: Adds juicy freshness and a subtle sweetness.
- 1 cup diced onions: Fresh onion pieces for crisp texture contrast on top.
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise: Helps bind flavors together with its creamy richness.
- 1/4 cup ketchup: Adds a hint of sweetness and acidity.
- 1/4 cup mustard: Introduces a gentle tang that wakes up the flavor profile.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasonings to balance and enhance every bite.
- Sesame seeds for topping: Give that classic burger bun touch and a little crunch on top.
How to Make Big Mac Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Beef and Onion
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. Then, in a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef along with the diced onion until the meat is fully browned and the onion softens nicely. Be sure to drain any excess fat to keep it from getting greasy and to let the flavors shine.
Step 2: Mix the Big Mac Sauce with the Beef
Once your beef and onions are ready, transfer them to a bowl and stir in the mayonnaise, ketchup, and mustard. This mixture replicates the iconic Big Mac sauce that ties the whole dish together, adding a creamy, tangy kick to every bite.
Step 3: Assemble the Casserole Base
Spread the beef and sauce mixture evenly into your baking dish. This will create a flavorful foundation for your casserole layers, making sure every slice captures that classic burger taste.
Step 4: Layer on Cheese and Fresh Veggies
Next, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese generously over the beef layer. Then top with shredded lettuce, diced pickles, tomatoes, and fresh onions. These fresh ingredients add texture, brightness, and the trademark Big Mac crunch.
Step 5: Add Sesame Seed Topping and Bake
Sprinkle sesame seeds over the entire top to mimic that sesame bun texture and give an extra delightful crunch. Bake in your preheated oven for about 20 to 25 minutes, until everything is heated through, the cheese is melted, and the casserole is bubbling invitingly.
How to Serve Big Mac Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
For a final flourish, consider adding a little extra shredded lettuce or a few more diced pickles on top right after baking for freshness and visual appeal. A light drizzle of ketchup or a dollop of your favorite burger sauce on the side also makes a playful nod to the classic Big Mac experience.
Side Dishes
This casserole pairs wonderfully with simple sides like crispy French fries, a tangy coleslaw, or even a light salad to balance out its richness. These accompaniments round out the meal while keeping the Big Mac spirit alive.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re serving a crowd, try individual ramekins or muffin tins to make little personal Big Mac casseroles that everyone can dig into. Alternatively, layering the casserole with different colored plates or garnishing with fresh herbs can give a fresh twist and elevate your presentation.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Any leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors actually develop nicely overnight, making it a great option for next-day meals or packed lunches.
Freezing
You can freeze this casserole before baking or after it cools completely, wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and foil. It will keep for up to two months. Just be sure to thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating for the best texture and flavor.
Reheating
To reheat, warm in the oven at 350°F for about 15 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave single portions, but the oven method helps keep the cheese melty and the topping crisp.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cheese in this Big Mac Casserole Recipe?
Absolutely! While cheddar gives a nice sharpness and melt, you can experiment with American cheese, Pepper Jack, or even a Swiss blend to change up the flavor profile while keeping the melty appeal.
Is it possible to make this casserole vegetarian?
Definitely! Substitute the ground beef with a plant-based ground ‘meat’ or cooked lentils mixed with a bit of smoky seasoning. The sauce and veggies will still deliver that Big Mac vibe without the meat.
How spicy is this casserole?
This Big Mac Casserole Recipe isn’t spicy by default—it’s all about that balance of tangy, creamy, and savory flavors. You can add a pinch of cayenne pepper or hot sauce if you want some heat.
Can I prepare the casserole in advance and bake it later?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole up to a day ahead and keep it refrigerated before baking. This makes it super convenient for busy weeknights or meal prepping in advance.
What can I use instead of mayonnaise?
If you’re not a fan of mayonnaise, Greek yogurt or a vegan mayo alternative works great here. They keep the creamy texture while adding a slight twist to the flavor.
Final Thoughts
This Big Mac Casserole Recipe is such a fun way to bring the nostalgia of a favorite burger into a warm, crowd-friendly meal. It’s easy to make, packed with comforting flavors, and perfect for sharing with people you love. Give it a try, and I promise it will become a fast favorite in your recipe rotation!
Print
Big Mac Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Big Mac Casserole recipe transforms the classic fast-food favorite into a comforting, easy-to-make dish perfect for family dinners. Combining seasoned ground beef with layers of cheddar cheese, fresh lettuce, pickles, tomatoes, and onions, all topped with a tangy blend of mayonnaise, ketchup, and mustard, this casserole delivers familiar flavors in a convenient baked format.
Ingredients
Meat Mixture
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 onion, diced
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 1/4 cup mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
Toppings
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded lettuce
- 1 cup diced pickles
- 1 cup diced tomatoes
- 1 cup diced onions
- Sesame seeds for topping
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it is ready for baking the casserole.
- Cook Beef and Onion: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef together with the diced onion until the beef is browned and fully cooked. Drain any excess fat to keep the casserole from becoming greasy.
- Prepare Beef Mixture: Transfer the cooked beef and onions to a mixing bowl. Add the mayonnaise, ketchup, mustard, salt, and pepper, mixing thoroughly to combine all the flavors evenly.
- Assemble Casserole Base: Spread the beef mixture evenly into a baking dish to create the base of the casserole.
- Add Toppings: Layer the shredded cheddar cheese, shredded lettuce, diced pickles, diced tomatoes, and diced onions evenly on top of the beef mixture.
- Sprinkle Sesame Seeds: Lightly sprinkle sesame seeds on top of the assembled toppings to mimic the classic Big Mac bun texture and add a subtle nutty flavor.
- Bake the Casserole: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the casserole is heated through and the cheese is melted.
- Serve: Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving hot for the best taste experience.
Notes
- You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
- Feel free to add a little garlic powder or smoked paprika to the beef mixture for extra flavor.
- For a cheesier casserole, add more shredded cheese or sprinkle some on top halfway through baking.
- This dish pairs well with a simple side salad or crispy fries.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
