If you’ve ever craved the flavors of a classic Big Mac but wanted something hearty, cheesy, and family-friendly straight from the oven, this Big Mac Casserole is about to be your new favorite comfort dish. Imagine layers of seasoned ground beef, creamy sauce, melted cheese, and a golden topping—all baked together in one bubbly, irresistible dish.
It captures the taste of the iconic burger in a cozy, fork-ready version that’s perfect for weeknights or potlucks. It’s quick, satisfying, and always a hit with both kids and adults. Oh, and before you dive in— go ahead and save this pin for recipe so you’ll have it handy whenever that craving strikes!
What makes this casserole so special is the way it blends familiar fast-food flavors with home-cooked ease. There’s no need for drive-thru lines when you can have a whole pan of cheesy, saucy goodness that feeds the family and leaves everyone reaching for seconds. Pair it with a simple side salad or fries, and you’ve got the ultimate dinner that feels indulgent yet surprisingly easy to prepare. This Big Mac Casserole is comfort food reimagined—bold, fun, and absolutely unforgettable.
Big Mac Casserole
Description
Big Mac Casserole is a hearty, family-friendly dish that transforms the flavors of the iconic fast-food burger into a warm and satisfying baked meal.
Ground beef is seasoned and layered with onions, pickles, cheese, and a creamy sauce that mimics the famous Big Mac dressing.
Topped with melted cheese and served with shredded lettuce, this casserole offers all the nostalgic taste of a Big Mac in comforting, spoonable form.
It’s easy to make, budget-friendly, and perfect for weeknight dinners or potlucks. Both kids and adults will love this fun twist that combines classic fast-food flavor with home-cooked comfort.
Ingredients
For the creamy sauce layer:
For the casserole assembly:
For topping:
Instructions
-
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula. Once the beef is halfway cooked, add diced onions and garlic. Stir and cook until the onions are soft and translucent. Drain any excess grease. Season with salt, pepper, Worcestershire sauce, ketchup, and mustard. Stir well to combine and set aside.
-
In a small bowl, mix together mayonnaise, sour cream, diced pickles, pickle juice, and paprika. This mixture brings that signature Big Mac “special sauce” vibe into the casserole. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Refrigerate until ready to use.
-
In a mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, heavy cream, garlic powder, and onion powder. This will bind the casserole and create a quiche-like texture that holds the beef and cheese layers together.
-
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray. Spread the cooked beef mixture evenly in the dish. Top with half of the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese. Pour the egg mixture over the top, then add the remaining cheese. Sprinkle sesame seeds over the cheese layer to mimic a Big Mac bun.
-
Place the casserole in the oven and bake for 30–35 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden brown. A knife inserted into the center should come out clean, indicating the egg custard has set.
-
Remove from oven and allow to cool for 5–10 minutes. Spread the creamy pickle sauce over the top. Garnish with shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, and extra pickles. Cut into squares and serve warm.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 8
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 480kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 34g53%
- Sodium 900mg38%
- Total Carbohydrate 10g4%
- Dietary Fiber 2g8%
- Sugars 4g
- Protein 30g60%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
Big Mac Casserole: Tips, Tricks & Serving Ideas
If you love the iconic flavors of a Big Mac but want them in a warm, hearty, family-style dish, the Big Mac Casserole is the answer. It transforms the beloved fast-food burger into a cheesy, savory baked meal that’s both nostalgic and comforting. Below are tips, tricks, and serving suggestions to help you make the perfect Big Mac Casserole every time.
1. Choosing the Right Meat
For the best flavor, use 80/20 ground beef. The fat content ensures juiciness without making the casserole greasy. If you prefer leaner beef (90/10), add a splash of olive oil or beef broth for richness. You can also lighten it up with ground turkey or chicken, but keep in mind that the flavor will be slightly different.
2. Toast the Buns or Bread Base
Most Big Mac casserole recipes use hamburger buns, low-carb bread, or even baked crescent rolls as a base. A smart trick is to toast the bread cubes lightly in the oven before layering. This prevents sogginess when the beef and cheese are added, giving the casserole a sturdier texture.
3. Season Generously
The signature Big Mac flavor comes from seasoning. Add garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and a touch of paprika to the beef. For extra depth, sauté diced onions and pickles directly with the meat. The balance of flavors mimics that crave-worthy burger taste.
4. The Secret Sauce Layer
The “special sauce” is what takes this casserole from good to unforgettable. A homemade mix of mayonnaise, ketchup, mustard, pickle relish, vinegar, garlic powder, and onion powder closely replicates the famous Big Mac sauce. Spread a layer of this sauce inside the casserole before baking, and drizzle more on top when serving.
5. Use Two Types of Cheese
Cheddar is classic, but adding American cheese or Colby Jack enhances the creamy, gooey factor. Layer cheese both between the beef and bread, as well as on top, for that melted, golden finish.
6. Don’t Overbake
Bake the casserole at 350°F (175°C) until the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden, about 20–25 minutes. Overbaking can dry out the beef and make the bread tough.
7. Fresh Toppings After Baking
To replicate the fresh crunch of a Big Mac, add shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, pickles, or even sesame seeds on top just before serving. This gives the casserole a bright, fresh contrast to the rich, cheesy layers.
8. Serving Tricks
- Family Style: Serve it straight from the baking dish with a big spoon for casual dinners.
- Portion Control: Cut into neat squares and serve with extra sauce drizzled on top.
- Party Food: Bake in a muffin tin for individual “Big Mac Bites.” Perfect for game days!
9. Side Dish Pairings
Big Mac Casserole is indulgent, so pairing it with lighter sides balances the meal. A crisp green salad with vinaigrette, roasted vegetables, or even baked sweet potato fries complement it perfectly.
10. Storage & Make-Ahead Tips
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freeze: Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat covered with foil in the oven.
- Meal Prep: Assemble ahead of time and refrigerate. Add cheese topping just before baking to keep it fresh.
11. Variations to Try
- Low Carb/Keto: Replace buns with a layer of cauliflower rice or shredded cabbage.
- Spicy Twist: Add jalapeños or hot sauce to the beef mixture.
- Double-Stacked Style: Create two layers of beef, sauce, and cheese for an extra hearty version.
12. Presentation Tips
Sprinkle sesame seeds over the baked casserole to mimic a Big Mac bun. Serve each slice with extra pickles and sauce on the side. For gatherings, garnish with parsley or shredded lettuce for a colorful finish.
Tips & Variations
- Keto-Friendly Version: Skip the ketchup and use sugar-free alternatives. This casserole is naturally low-carb since it doesn’t use bread.
- Crunchy Topping: Crush sesame crackers or keto-friendly bread crumbs with sesame seeds for extra crunch.
- Add Heat: Mix in diced jalapeños or use pepper jack cheese for a spicy twist.
- Make Ahead: Assemble the casserole up to the baking step and refrigerate overnight. Bake fresh the next day.
- Family-Style Meal Prep: Portion into containers for easy reheatable lunches during the week.
Serving Suggestions
Big Mac Casserole is hearty enough to serve on its own, but you can complete the meal with these ideas:
- French Fries or Potato Wedges: Keep the fast-food spirit alive with crispy fries on the side.
- Fresh Salad: A simple garden salad with light vinaigrette balances the richness.
- Pickle Spears: Since pickles are essential to the Big Mac experience, serve extra on the side for crunch.
- Coleslaw: Adds freshness and a tangy balance to the cheesy casserole.
Why You’ll Love It
This Big Mac Casserole hits all the right notes: savory beef, tangy sauce, gooey cheese, and a topping that makes you forget all about the drive-thru. It’s easy to put together, customizable to fit your family’s tastes, and perfect for feeding a crowd without the hassle of assembling multiple burgers.
Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner, hosting a casual gathering, or craving comfort food, this dish delivers the nostalgic flavor of a Big Mac in a hearty, spoonable form.
Final Thoughts
Big Mac Casserole is comfort food with a twist—rich, cheesy, and loaded with burger flavor. By toasting the bread, layering cheese, and adding fresh toppings after baking, you can elevate this simple dish into something unforgettable.
Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner, meal prep, or a party centerpiece, these tips and tricks will help you create a casserole that’s as satisfying as the original burger, but even more fun to share.
Pin this recipe to share with your friends and followers.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Big Mac Casserole?
Big Mac Casserole is a comforting, low-carb twist on the famous McDonald’s Big Mac burger. Instead of buns, it layers seasoned ground beef, onions, pickles, cheese, and a creamy special sauce-inspired topping. Everything is baked into a hearty casserole dish, making it an easy family dinner that delivers all the classic flavors of a Big Mac in a healthier, homemade style.
Is Big Mac Casserole keto or low-carb friendly?
Yes! Most versions of Big Mac Casserole are keto- and low-carb friendly because they skip the bread and use protein, cheese, eggs, and cream instead. You can even add shredded lettuce and extra pickles when serving to mimic the Big Mac experience without carbs. If you’re not following a strict low-carb diet, you can pair it with a side of fries, roasted potatoes, or garlic bread.
How do you store and reheat leftovers?
Store cooled casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, cover with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 15–20 minutes.
For quicker reheating, you can microwave individual portions, though baking keeps the texture crispier. Big Mac Casserole also freezes well—wrap tightly and store for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Can I customize the recipe?
Absolutely! You can swap ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option, or add bacon for extra flavor. Spice lovers may add jalapeños or hot sauce to the beef mixture.
For a more indulgent version, layer with tater tots or fries before baking. The beauty of this dish is its versatility—it’s a customizable crowd-pleaser perfect for family dinners or potlucks.
