Big Mac Casserole Recipe

Big Mac Casserole is the ultimate way to get those crave-worthy burger flavors in one cozy, family-style dish. It’s packed with everything you love: seasoned ground beef, tender potatoes, tangy pickles, and that irresistible special sauce—all in one easy casserole you’ll want to make again and again.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient here has a delicious role to play! You’ll recognize a few burger basics, but when they come together in this casserole, they create something new and irresistible. Simple, honest, and packed with flavor, these kitchen staples guarantee that classic Big Mac Casserole taste.

• Lean ground beef: The savory star, giving the dish its signature burger richness—use the leanest blend you can for a lighter result.
• White onion, diced: Adds sweetness and depth; cooked with the beef until soft and full of flavor.
• Russet potatoes: These become perfectly tender and add heartiness, making the casserole extra satisfying.
• Diced tomatoes (drained): Bring subtle acidity and juiciness, brightening every bite.
• Green pepper: A burst of color and mild tang that balances out the rich beef and potatoes.
• Chopped dill pickles: The “secret weapon”—these zippy pickles bring all the nostalgia of a great cheeseburger.
• White sesame seeds: A nod to the classic sesame bun—these get sprinkled in and on top for a fun crunch.
• Homemade Special Sauce: Creamy, tangy, and super easy to mix up—don’t skip this, it’s the magic touch!
• For topping: Shredded romaine lettuce, extra onion, pickles, sesame seeds, diced tomatoes, and more Special Sauce: Pile them on just before serving for that true burger-in-a-bite experience.

Variations

Half the fun of a Big Mac Casserole is making it your own—so don’t be afraid to mix things up! Whether you want to add more veggies, lighten things up, or make it dairy-free, this dish flexes to fit every taste and table.

• Cheeseburger Casserole: Add a layer of shredded cheddar or American cheese over the top before baking for gooey, melty, burger-inspired goodness.
• Lighter Lean: Swap in ground turkey or chicken for the beef—it’s still packed with flavor but a little lighter.
• Keto-Friendly: Replace the potatoes with cauliflower florets for a low-carb twist that’s every bit as hearty.
• Loaded Veggie: Toss in extra veggies like mushrooms, zucchini, or corn for even more color, crunch, and nutrition.

How to Make Big Mac Casserole

Step 1: Brown the Beef and Onions

Start by adding your diced white onion and ground beef into a large skillet over medium heat. Let them sizzle away, stirring occasionally, until the beef is fully browned and the onions turn translucent and fragrant. This step builds serious flavor, so don’t rush it!

Step 2: Prep the Veggies and Preheat

While the meat cooks, preheat your oven to 350°F and prepare a big casserole dish. Scatter the diced potatoes, green pepper, diced tomatoes (make sure to drain them well!), and chopped pickles right into the dish. This makes a rainbow of color and crunch at the base of your casserole.

Step 3: Combine and Add the Special Sauce

Once the beef and onion are finished, drain any excess grease and return everything to the pan. Stir in the homemade Special Sauce—this is where all those iconic Big Mac Casserole flavors shine! Get every bit coated before adding the mixture to your prepared casserole dish.

Step 4: Mix and Arrange

Now sprinkle the sesame seeds into the casserole and gently stir everything together so the meat, veggies, and potatoes are evenly combined. Press into an even layer for perfect, golden baking later on.

Step 5: Bake

Cover the casserole tightly with foil and transfer it to the oven. Bake for one full hour—this is just enough time for the potatoes to soften and soak up all the beefy, saucy goodness. You’ll know it’s done when the potatoes are fork-tender.

Step 6: Top and Serve

Remove the casserole from the oven and get creative! Scatter on shredded romaine, extra pickles, onions, tomatoes, more sesame seeds, and (why not?) another drizzle of Special Sauce. Serve it family-style for the ultimate Big Mac Casserole feast!

How to Serve Big Mac Casserole

Garnishes

Pile on a cloud of shredded romaine lettuce, sprinkle with more diced pickles and onions, toss a few sesame seeds over the top, and give it that unmistakable burger finish with extra drizzle of Special Sauce—these fresh toppings take your Big Mac Casserole from just tasty to absolutely irresistible!

Side Dishes

You can keep the burger theme going with classic kettle chips, crispy sweet potato fries, or a tangy slaw. For an even lighter pairing, a wedge salad or simple cucumber salad brings just the right refreshing crunch to balance out the rich casserole.

Creative Ways to Present

Scoop the hot casserole into individual ramekins and arrange toppings in little bowls, so everyone gets to build their own “burger bowl.” Or, serve big scoops over a bed of shredded lettuce for a low-carb, high-drama presentation that looks gorgeous and party-ready.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Let leftover Big Mac Casserole cool to room temperature, then transfer to an airtight container. It’ll keep in the fridge for up to three days, making weekday lunches or second helpings a breeze!

Freezing

This casserole freezes surprisingly well. Simply portion it in airtight freezer containers (skip the fresh toppings), and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best texture.

Reheating

Reheat individual servings in the microwave, or warm larger portions in a covered baking dish at 350°F until hot. Add fresh toppings after reheating so every bowl tastes just as great as day one.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a crowd-pleasing, cozy, and slightly nostalgic dish, grab your casserole dish and give Big Mac Casserole a try. It’s familiar, totally fun, and destined to become a favorite on busy nights, family gatherings, or whenever a burger craving strikes!

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