Big Mac Casserole Recipe

If you’ve ever craved that classic burger flavor without the mess (or committed to pulling out every fry pan in the kitchen), you’re in for an absolute treat. Big Mac Casserole brings together all the flavors of your fast food favorite in one cozy, cheesy bake. Each forkful delivers layers of juicy beef, creamy special sauce, crunchy pickles, and a fresh, crisp lettuce bite on top. This casserole is perfect for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or anytime you want a nostalgic, crowd-pleasing meal. It’ll quickly become a go-to in your recipe rotation!

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe is wonderfully straightforward, but each ingredient is carefully chosen to recreate that classic burger taste, with a few smart twists. Here’s what you’ll need, and what each ingredient brings to the table:

• Ground beef (2 lbs): The star protein, delivering rich, meaty flavor and a hearty base for the casserole.
• Large onion, diced: Adds gentle sweetness and depth to the beef mixture—a must for balance.
• Worcestershire sauce (2 tbsp): Packs an umami punch, elevating the burger-like savoriness.
• Garlic powder (1 tsp): Infuses every bite with aromatic, allium goodness without chopping extra cloves.
• Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for properly seasoned meat and overall flavor cohesion.
• Dill pickle chips, chopped (1 cup): The briny, tangy crunch that screams “Big Mac” in every bite.
• Shredded cheddar cheese (1 cup): Melts into a gooey, irresistible layer that makes the casserole sing.
• Eggs (4 large): The binding agent, setting everything into delicious, sliceable layers.
• Heavy cream (1/2 cup): Adds creaminess and richness to the custard base.
• Mayonnaise (1/4 cup): A key part of that unmistakable sauce flavor and a nod to the Big Mac’s iconic sauce.
• Mustard (2 tbsp): Provides a little zip and layers of tang.
• Ketchup (2 tbsp): Adds both sweetness and color, rounding out the sauce mixture perfectly.
• Onion powder (1/2 tsp): Another sneaky allium hit to keep the flavor balanced and robust.
• Paprika (1/2 tsp): Brings color and a mild smokiness for extra dimension.
• Shredded iceberg lettuce (2 cups): The crunchy, refreshing finish that transforms your bake into playful burger territory.

How to Make Big Mac Casserole

Step 1: Get Your Oven Ready

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This way, it’ll be at the perfect baking temperature as soon as your casserole is assembled and ready to pop in. Trust me, those few minutes of preheating make all the difference for even cooking and perfectly melted cheese.

Step 2: Sauté Beef and Onions

Grab your largest skillet and place it over medium heat. Toss in the ground beef and diced onion together. Sauté until the beef is browned and crumbly, while the onions turn translucent and aromatic. Drain off any excess fat, so the casserole doesn’t end up greasy—just pure beefy goodness!

Step 3: Season the Meat

Sprinkle the Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper over the cooked beef and onion. Stir well and let everything cook for another two minutes. This extra step allows the flavors to meld together, deepening the savory, burger-inspired notes that are so essential to Big Mac Casserole.

Step 4: Build the Casserole Base

Evenly transfer the seasoned beef mixture into a 9×13 inch baking dish, spreading it right into the corners. Now, scatter the chopped dill pickle chips over the meat. This is the magic moment—the pickles will infuse the entire casserole with that iconic Big Mac tang!

Step 5: Make the Creamy Sauce Layer

In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, heavy cream, mayonnaise, mustard, ketchup, onion powder, and paprika. Whisk until you have a smooth, fully combined custard base. This mixture is the secret behind the casserole’s unbelievably creamy, flavorful middle layer.

Step 6: Pour and Top

Pour the creamy egg sauce over the beef and pickles in your baking dish, making sure it’s spread evenly over everything. Next, shower the whole surface with shredded cheddar cheese. As it bakes, this layer will bubble, melt, and turn irresistibly golden.

Step 7: Bake to Perfection

Carefully move the casserole dish to your preheated oven. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and beginning to turn a hint of golden brown. The center should be set (not jiggly) so you get perfectly sliceable portions.

Step 8: Finish and Serve

Once out of the oven, let your Big Mac Casserole cool for a few minutes—just enough so you don’t burn your mouth! Top generously with shredded iceberg lettuce for crunch and color, right before serving. The cool lettuce on the warm, cheesy casserole is a match made in burger heaven.

How to Serve Big Mac Casserole

Garnishes

Give your Big Mac Casserole the full burger-shop treatment with classic garnishes! I love scattering on some extra pickle chips, a sprinkle of sesame seeds, or a drizzle of your favorite creamy burger sauce. Bright red cherry tomatoes and a few slices of red onion add color and zing—plus, they really amp up that nostalgic vibe.

Side Dishes

A scoop of this casserole plays beautifully with crispy oven fries, sweet potato wedges, or even a vinegar-y coleslaw. For something lighter, serve alongside a simple tomato and cucumber salad, or whip up some homemade potato chips for an all-in burger night.

Creative Ways to Present

For parties or casual gatherings, portion your Big Mac Casserole into small ramekins or muffin tins for adorable single-serves. Feeling fun? Pile spoonfuls onto mini slider buns for a playful slider bar, or serve with lettuce cups for a low-carb, hand-held option.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Big Mac Casserole keeps marvellously in the fridge for up to three days. Store leftovers in an airtight container, or simply cover your baking dish tightly with foil. The layers hold up well—even the pickles stay punchy!

Freezing

To freeze, make sure the casserole has completely cooled. Portion into individual servings or keep it whole, then wrap tightly and freeze for up to two months. For best texture, add the fresh lettuce topping only after reheating.

Reheating

Reheat portions uncovered in a 350°F oven or toaster oven until hot and bubbly—about 15 to 20 minutes does the trick. For single servings, a minute or two in the microwave works too, but baking will keep that cheesy top at its best.

FAQs

Can I make Big Mac Casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble the entire casserole (except for the lettuce topping) up to a day in advance. Just cover and refrigerate, then bake as directed when ready to serve. It’s a real time-saver for busy days.

Is there a way to make this recipe low carb?

Yes! This recipe already swaps out the bun for a casserole format, but you could also reduce the ketchup and use sugar-free varieties. Serve in lettuce cups or with extra veggies to keep it extra light.

Can I substitute the ground beef?

Absolutely. Ground turkey or even ground chicken works beautifully in this recipe for a lighter version, though you may want to bump up the seasoning to ensure maximum flavor.

How do I make it extra saucy?

For more of that saucy goodness, double up the mayo, ketchup, and mustard in the custard layer, or whisk together a little “special sauce” to drizzle on top just before serving!

Can I add other toppings?

Of course! Chopped tomatoes, sliced jalapeños, or a dusting of sesame seeds add a fun twist. Even a layer of thinly sliced pickled onions or extra cheese can take your Big Mac Casserole to the next level.

Final Thoughts

This is truly comfort food at its most creative, with all the flavor and fun of your favorite burger—no drive-thru required! If you’re looking up a way to surprise your family or wow some dinner guests, Big Mac Casserole does it every time. Give it a try and watch as it disappears, bite by delicious bite.

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