Name: Big Mac Casserole Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1 small onion, chopped; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 1 tablespoon yellow mustard; 1/4 cup ketchup; 1/4 cup dill pickle chips, chopped; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 4 cups frozen or fresh shredded hash browns (or cauliflower rice for low-carb); 1/2 cup mayonnaise; 1/4 cup Thousand Island dressing; 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (optional); Shredded lettuce and extra pickles for serving

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If you crave the flavors of a classic cheeseburger but want the comfort and convenience of a one-pan dinner, this Big Mac Casserole Recipe is about to become your new obsession! Inspired by the iconic fast-food favorite, this dish transforms familiar ingredients like ground beef, hash browns, tangy pickles, rich cheese, and a signature special sauce into a family-friendly bake that’s just as irresistible as the original burger—only lighter on the effort and bigger on flavor. Whether you’re aiming to please picky eaters, indulge a nostalgic craving, or need a quick but hearty weekday dinner, you’ll love how this recipe brings everyone to the table with smiles.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Simplicity is the secret here, but every ingredient in this Big Mac Casserole Recipe plays a vital role. Whether it’s adding juicy richness, cheesy depth, or that unmistakable tang, each component is carefully selected to replicate all the best parts of your favorite burger—delivered in casserole form!

Ground beef: Use lean beef for the perfect meaty flavor without excess grease, creating the hearty base of your casserole.
Onion (chopped): Adds savory sweetness and aromatic depth that melds with the beef for an authentic burger taste.
Garlic powder: Just a touch infuses each bite with a subtle, delicious warmth.
Salt: Enhances all the flavors and ensures every component pops.
Black pepper: Gives a gentle spicy kick that balances the richness.
Yellow mustard: Brings classic burger zest and a bright, tangy note.
Ketchup: Adds a touch of sweetness and classic Big Mac flavor.
Dill pickle chips (chopped): Don’t skip these! They give crunch and that signature tang.
Shredded cheddar cheese: Melty, sharp, and beautifully golden—this is where the cheeseburger magic happens.
Shredded mozzarella cheese: Ensures an ultra-gooey, perfectly stretchy top layer.
Frozen or fresh shredded hash browns (or cauliflower rice for low-carb): Choose hash browns for a cozy, hearty texture, or cauliflower rice to lighten things up for keto cravings.
Mayonnaise: Adds luxurious creaminess, binding the hash browns and cheese together.
Thousand Island dressing: The special sauce! Swirled on top, it brings the unmistakable “Big Mac” zip.
Sesame seeds (optional): Sprinkle these on for a fun nod to the classic burger bun.
Shredded lettuce and extra pickles (for serving): These fresh, crunchy toppings deliver that true burger experience with every bite.

How to Make Big Mac Casserole Recipe

Step 1: Get Everything Ready

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish. Getting organized at the beginning ensures a smooth, fuss-free cooking experience and makes layering the ingredients a breeze.

Step 2: Sizzle the Beef and Onions

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and chopped onions until the beef is browned and fully cooked, about 7–8 minutes. Stir occasionally and use a spatula to break up the beef for that perfect crumbly texture. Once that mix smells irresistible, drain any excess grease.

Step 3: Build the Burger Flavors

Stir in the garlic powder, salt, pepper, yellow mustard, ketchup, and those chopped dill pickles right into the skillet. This step transforms your plain beef into a savory, tangy, burger-inspired filling that packs all those classic flavors into every bite. Set this delicious mixture aside, and get ready to layer.

Step 4: Prepare the Hash Brown Base

In a large bowl, mix the shredded hash browns (or cauliflower rice if you’re aiming for low-carb), mayonnaise, and half of both the cheddar and mozzarella cheeses. This trio creates a creamy, cheesy base with just the right amount of richness to cradle the savory beef layer.

Step 5: Assemble the Casserole

Spread your hash brown and cheese mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish, smoothing it out to the edges. Top with your seasoned beef mixture, then sprinkle the remaining cheddar and mozzarella cheeses all over for that bubbling, golden finish everyone loves.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Pop the casserole into the oven and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until it’s bubbly, melty, and golden on top. The wait while your kitchen fills with burger aroma is the hardest part—but so worth it!

Step 7: Top and Serve

Once baked, drizzle the surface with Thousand Island dressing and, if you like, a scatter of sesame seeds for undeniable burger nostalgia. Let the Big Mac Casserole Recipe sit for a few minutes to firm up, then serve each portion with a generous topping of shredded lettuce and extra pickles for that authentic Big Mac finish.

How to Serve Big Mac Casserole Recipe

Garnishes

For maximum burger flavor, garnish every serving with fresh shredded lettuce and an extra handful of chopped pickles. These simple toppings not only add irresistible crunch and color, but will also transport you, bite after bite, right back to that iconic burger experience. Finish with a drizzle of extra Thousand Island if you want to double down on the “special sauce” effect.

Side Dishes

The Big Mac Casserole Recipe is a meal in itself, but rounding it out with the right sides never hurts. A crisp dill pickle spear, classic coleslaw, or even baked oven fries make the perfect accompaniments. If you want to keep things on the lighter side, pair it with a simple green salad tossed in tangy vinaigrette.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, bake your casserole in individual ramekins for personalized portions—kids (and grown-ups!) love having their own. Hosting game night? Scoop it onto toasted slider buns for a playful cheeseburger sandwich vibe. You can even roll it up in a low-carb tortilla for a “Big Mac burrito” version. However you present it, the layers of flavor will always steal the show.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftovers keep well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors deepen overnight, making for extra-tasty reheated portions that are perfect for lunchboxes or quick dinners.

Freezing

If you want to make the Big Mac Casserole Recipe ahead of time, it freezes beautifully. Let the casserole cool completely, wrap it tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best results.

Reheating

To reheat, cover and bake in a 350°F (175°C) oven until warmed through (about 15–20 minutes), or zap individual servings in the microwave until steamy. Always add lettuce and pickles right before serving, so they stay fresh and crisp.

FAQs

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey is a leaner option that soaks up burger-like seasonings just as well. The result will be every bit as delicious and will save a few calories and grams of fat in the final casserole.

What can I use instead of hash browns for a low-carb version?

Cauliflower rice is a fantastic swap for the hash browns if you want to keep your Big Mac Casserole Recipe keto-friendly. It delivers a similar hearty texture with far fewer carbs, making it perfect for low-carb diets.

Is Thousand Island dressing required, or can I make my own?

Store-bought Thousand Island dressing is super convenient and gives that classic “Big Mac” tang. If you prefer homemade, just whisk together mayo, ketchup, sweet pickle relish, and a little vinegar for a quick DIY version!

Can I add extra veggies?

Absolutely! Diced tomatoes, bell peppers, or even chopped bacon are delicious stir-ins that add extra color, flavor, and nutritional value to your casserole.

Can I prepare it in advance?

Yes, you can assemble the casserole (up to the baking stage) a day ahead and keep it covered in the fridge. Just add a few extra minutes to the bake time if it’s cold from the refrigerator, then garnish and serve when ready!

Final Thoughts

If you’re searching for a fun, crowd-pleasing dinner that checks all the boxes—flavorful, easy, and a hit with everyone—give this Big Mac Casserole Recipe a try. It just might become your new comfort food classic, and I can’t wait for you to enjoy all those nostalgic burger flavors in a delicious, bubbly bake!

Big Mac Casserole Recipe

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4.5 from 22 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

Indulge in the flavors of a classic Big Mac in casserole form with this delicious and easy recipe. Layers of seasoned ground beef, cheese, pickles, and special sauce baked to perfection.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Beef Layer:

1 lb ground beef
1 small onion, chopped
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1 tablespoon yellow mustard
1/4 cup ketchup
1/4 cup dill pickle chips, chopped

For the Casserole:

1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
4 cups frozen or fresh shredded hash browns (or cauliflower rice for low-carb)
1/2 cup mayonnaise
1/4 cup Thousand Island dressing
1 tablespoon sesame seeds (optional)
Shredded lettuce and extra pickles for serving

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Instructions

Preheat and Brown the Beef: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook ground beef and onion in a skillet until browned. Season with garlic powder, salt, pepper, mustard, ketchup, and pickles.
Prepare the Casserole: Mix hash browns (or cauliflower rice) with mayo and half of each cheese. Spread in greased baking dish. Top with beef mixture and remaining cheese. Bake for 20–25 minutes.
Finish and Serve: Drizzle with Thousand Island dressing, sesame seeds, and let cool slightly. Serve with lettuce and pickles.