Name: Big Mac Casserole Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1 onion, diced; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; ½ cup pickles, chopped; 1 cup lettuce, chopped (for serving); 2 tbsp ketchup; 2 tbsp mayonnaise; 2 tbsp mustard; Salt & pepper, to taste

Jump to Recipe· 4.2 from 43 reviews

If you have ever craved that iconic Big Mac flavor but wished it could be enjoyed in a comforting, easy-to-make dinner form, the Big Mac Casserole Recipe is your answer. This dish brings together all the beloved elements of the classic burger—juicy ground beef, tangy pickles, that signature special sauce blend, and ooey-gooey melted cheese—layered into a warm, cheesy casserole that will delight your taste buds and make weeknight meals something to look forward to. It’s the perfect way to enjoy a burger-inspired meal without the fuss of grilling or flipping patties, all served up in a satisfying, family-friendly format.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A top-down view of several white bowls arranged on a white marbled surface, each filled with different food items. There is a bowl of finely chopped onions, a bowl of shredded orange cheese, and a bowl filled with finely chopped pickles. A large pile of ground beef sits in a square white bowl. Sliced pickles are in a small white bowl near the top. A small white bowl has tomato sauce, and another has diced onions. A whole lettuce head is placed on the surface beside the bowls. A small container with sesame seeds and a spoon with a small amount of salt are also visible. The image shows a mix of textures: the softness of ground beef, the roughness of shredded cheese, and the crispness of lettuce leaves. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The beauty of the Big Mac Casserole Recipe lies in its simplicity and the essential ingredients that each play a starring role. Each item contributes a layer of flavor or texture, building the taste profile that mirrors the classic burger we all love.

1 lb ground beef: Provides the savory, meaty foundation that mimics the Big Mac patties.
1 onion, diced: Adds sweetness and depth that caramelizes beautifully when cooked.
1 cup shredded cheddar: Melts perfectly to give that rich, cheesy finish on top.
1 cup lettuce, chopped (for serving): Adds freshness and a crisp bite at the end.
½ cup pickles, chopped: Brings the essential tang and crunch, just like you get in the classic burger.
2 tbsp ketchup: Introduces a subtle sweetness and tanginess reminiscent of Big Mac’s special sauce base.
2 tbsp mayo: Provides creaminess and helps bind the sauce together.
2 tbsp mustard: Offers a sharp, pungent kick that balances the flavors beautifully.
Salt & pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance and brighten all the other flavors.

How to Make Big Mac Casserole Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Ground Beef and Onion

Start by browning the ground beef with the diced onion in a skillet over medium heat. Cooking the onions alongside the beef helps them soften and sweeten, creating a delicious base. Make sure to break up the beef with a spatula as it cooks for even browning. Once cooked through, drain any excess fat to keep the casserole from being greasy and to let the flavors shine.

Step 2: Mix in the Sauce Ingredients

After draining, mix in the ketchup, mayo, mustard, salt, and pepper right into the hot beef and onion mixture. This is your homemade “special sauce” that brings the classic Big Mac tang and creaminess together. Stir thoroughly so the beef is evenly coated, ensuring every bite bursts with that familiar burger flavor.

Step 3: Assemble the Casserole

Spread the seasoned beef mixture evenly into a casserole dish for a perfect layer base. Then sprinkle the shredded cheddar generously over the top. This layer of cheese melts as the casserole bakes and forms a golden, bubbly crust that will make your mouth water.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Pop your casserole into a preheated oven at 350°F and bake it for 15 minutes. This step allows the cheese to melt fully and the flavors to meld beautifully. The aromas that fill your kitchen in this step are guaranteed to build anticipation and make mealtime extra special.

How to Serve Big Mac Casserole Recipe

A rectangular white baking dish filled with a creamy pasta casserole topped with a golden brown, crispy breadcrumb crust mixed with chopped herbs, covering the entire surface. A serving spoon lifts a portion from one corner, revealing creamy noodles with visible green peas and chunks of white meat beneath the crunchy top layer. The dish sits on a white marbled surface with a reddish-brown cloth partially underneath, creating a warm and inviting setting. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

For that authentic Big Mac vibe, sprinkle the casserole with the chopped pickles and fresh chopped lettuce just before serving. These garnishes add the classic crunch and tang that brighten every bite and stop the dish from feeling too heavy.

Side Dishes

This casserole is wonderful on its own, but if you want to round out your meal, consider serving it with some crispy potato wedges, a simple side salad, or even some coleslaw to complement the tangy and savory flavors of the dish.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, you can crumble toasted sesame seed buns on top right before serving to mimic the Big Mac bun’s texture and flavor. Alternatively, serve it in individual ramekins for a personalized touch when entertaining guests or making a meal that feels extra special.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

The Big Mac Casserole Recipe keeps beautifully in the refrigerator for up to three days. Be sure to cover it tightly with foil or plastic wrap to maintain freshness and prevent it from drying out.

Freezing

If you want to prepare this casserole ahead of time, it freezes well. Assemble the casserole but don’t bake it, then cover it tightly with freezer-safe wrap and foil. It will keep for up to two months. When ready, thaw overnight in the fridge before baking as usual.

Reheating

To reheat leftovers, cover the casserole loosely with foil and warm in a 350°F oven until heated through, about 15-20 minutes. This keeps the cheese creamy and the beef juicy without drying out the dish.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Absolutely! While cheddar is classic and melts well, you can experiment with American cheese, mozzarella, or even a cheddar-monterey jack blend for different flavors and textures.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this casserole is naturally gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free condiments. Avoid adding bun crumbles if you need to keep it strictly gluten-free, or opt for gluten-free buns if you want that added texture.

How spicy is this dish?

This Big Mac Casserole Recipe is mild and very approachable. If you enjoy a little heat, you can add a dash of cayenne pepper or your favorite hot sauce to the sauce mixture.

Can I add vegetables to the casserole?

Definitely! Diced tomatoes, sautéed mushrooms, or even finely chopped bell peppers can add color and nutrition without overwhelming the classic Big Mac flavor profile.

What’s the best way to make the special sauce more authentic?

Mix in a teaspoon of sweet pickle relish to the mayo, ketchup, and mustard blend for a closer approximation of the original Big Mac special sauce.

Final Thoughts

This Big Mac Casserole Recipe is a true game-changer when you want the comfort of a cheeseburger and the ease of a baked dish all in one. Whether for a busy weeknight, a casual family dinner, or a cozy meal with friends, this recipe is sure to bring smiles and satisfy cravings. Give it a try—you might just find your new favorite way to enjoy burger night!

Big Mac Casserole Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need