If you love the iconic flavors of a classic Big Mac but want something a bit cozier and easier to share, this Big Mac Casserole Recipe is going to be your new go-to comfort food. It takes all the beloved elements of the famous burger—juicy beef, tangy pickles, melty cheese, fresh veggies, and that signature sauce—and transforms them into a warm, hearty casserole that’s perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings. Each bite delivers that familiar, crave-worthy taste but with the ease and soul-satisfying vibes that only a baked casserole can bring.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are simple, wholesome, and essential to creating the perfect harmony of flavors and textures. Each one plays a crucial role, whether it’s adding richness, crunch, or that classic Big Mac taste we all adore.
- 1 lbs. lean ground beef (96/4): Provides the savory, juicy base of the casserole with just the right amount of lean protein.
- 1 lbs. russet potatoes, chopped: Adds comforting creaminess and a satisfying bite; leaving the skin on brings texture and nutrients.
- 1/2 white onion, chopped: Brings a mild sweetness and aromatic depth to the beef mixture.
- 1/4 cup water: Helps steam and soften the potatoes while cooking.
- 1 tsp. olive oil: For sautéing and enhancing flavors without overpowering.
- 2 tsp. yellow mustard: A tangy twist that brightens the beef and mimics that Big Mac zing.
- 1/2 tsp. garlic powder: Adds subtle warmth and umami to the savory filling.
- 1/2 tsp. onion powder: Enhances the onion flavor while keeping things smooth.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Melts perfectly over the casserole for that gooey, irresistible layer.
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise: Base for the Big Mac sauce, creamy and smooth.
- 1/4 cup ketchup: Sweetness and tang that balances the sauce.
- 1/4 cup dill pickles, chopped: Adds the signature crunch and acidity that Big Mac fans love.
- 1 tbsp. dill pickle juice: Sharpens the pickle flavor and ties the sauce together.
- 1 vine tomato, chopped: Provides freshness and a pop of color.
- A handful of white onions, chopped: For garnish, adding a fresh bite.
- A handful of shredded iceberg lettuce: Offers crispness and contrast in every forkful.
- 1/4 cup dill pickle chips: A crunchy topping that seals the deal with classic Big Mac vibes.
How to Make Big Mac Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Potatoes
Start by preheating your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. Then, wash and chop the russet potatoes into small, bite-sized pieces. Leaving the skin on not only preserves nutrients but also provides a rustic texture that beautifully complements the creamy interior.
Step 2: Cook the Potatoes
Heat a pan over medium heat and add olive oil. Toss in the chopped potatoes along with the water to help them steam and soften evenly. Season generously with salt and pepper, and stir frequently to avoid sticking or burning. Cook until the potatoes begin to soften, about 5 to 10 minutes depending on the size of your chunks. This step jumpstarts the cooking process before baking.
Step 3: Cook the Beef and Onion
In the same pan, add your lean ground beef along with the chopped half white onion. Cook until the beef is nearly browned and the onions soften. This combination forms the heart of the casserole and it’s where those incredible flavors start to develop. Season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and the yellow mustard. The mustard is key for that authentic tang reminiscent of a Big Mac’s special sauce.
Step 4: Combine and Add Cheese
Once your beef mixture is perfectly seasoned and cooked, mix it evenly with the softened potatoes in your baking dish. Then, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese generously over the top. Cover the dish with foil to keep the cheese from browning too quickly and pop it in the oven to bake for about 15 minutes, until the cheese is melted to gooey perfection.
Step 5: Prepare the Big Mac Sauce
While the casserole bakes, whip up the signature sauce by combining mayonnaise, ketchup, chopped dill pickles, and a splash of dill pickle juice in a small bowl. This sauce is the soul of the Big Mac experience, tangy and creamy, and it ties the entire dish together. Keep it chilled until you’re ready to drizzle it on top.
Step 6: Add Toppings and Serve
After removing the casserole from the oven and taking off the foil, drizzle the Big Mac sauce over the top. Then pile on the fresh garnishes—a handful of shredded iceberg lettuce, chopped vine tomato, white onions, and dill pickle chips. These add brightness, crunch, and visual appeal that make every bite exciting and unforgettable.
How to Serve Big Mac Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Adding fresh iceberg lettuce, chopped tomatoes, and extra diced onions instantly lifts this casserole from hearty to spectacular, replicating that layered Big Mac feel. Don’t forget those crunchy dill pickle chips for that extra punch of flavor and texture—they’re like the cherry on top.
Side Dishes
Keep sides light and complementary to balance the rich casserole. A crisp green salad with a zesty vinaigrette or some fresh steamed veggies works wonders, helping to refresh the palate between bites of this cheesy, savory dish.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the casserole in a rustic baking dish for a homey vibe or scoop individual portions into small ramekins for a cute, personalized touch. You can also layer the casserole in clear glass dishes to show off the colorful layers, making the presentation as fun as the flavors.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Big Mac Casserole Recipe leftovers store beautifully in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This makes it a fantastic option for meal prep or quick lunches the next day.
Freezing
If you want to save some for later, this casserole freezes well. Just make sure to cool it completely, transfer to a freezer-safe container, and freeze for up to 2 months. For best texture, add fresh toppings like lettuce and tomato after reheating rather than before freezing.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions for convenience, but the oven method helps maintain that melty, fresh-baked quality.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cheese for the casserole?
Absolutely! While cheddar is traditional and melts nicely, feel free to try mozzarella for extra stretchiness or pepper jack for a mild kick of spice. Just make sure it melts well to keep the casserole gooey.
Is the Big Mac sauce difficult to make from scratch?
Not at all! The sauce is incredibly simple—you just mix mayonnaise, ketchup, pickles, and pickle juice together. It’s the magic behind the flavor and really quick to whip up while the casserole bakes.
Can I make this casserole vegetarian?
Yes, you can swap the ground beef for a plant-based alternative like lentils, mushrooms, or a meat substitute. Adjust seasonings accordingly and you’ll still capture the spirit of the Big Mac in a veggie-friendly way.
What if I don’t have russet potatoes—can I use something else?
Russets are great for their starchy texture, but you can also use Yukon Golds or even sweet potatoes for a twist. Keep in mind that sweet potatoes will add a touch of sweetness, which pairs surprisingly well with the tangy sauce.
How spicy is this Big Mac Casserole Recipe?
It’s mild and approachable for most palates, focusing more on tangy and savory flavors than heat. If you want a little more kick, adding crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce during cooking can easily spice things up.
Final Thoughts
This Big Mac Casserole Recipe is such a delightful way to enjoy all the flavors of your favorite burger without the fuss of sandwiches. It’s comforting, easy to make, and incredibly satisfying—perfect for cozy nights or feeding a crowd. I seriously can’t recommend it enough, so grab your ingredients and give it a try; I promise it’ll become one of those recipes you make again and again.
Print
Big Mac Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Big Mac Casserole is a delicious homemade twist on the classic fast-food burger, combining seasoned ground beef, tender potatoes, melted cheddar cheese, and a flavorful Big Mac sauce, baked to perfection and topped with fresh veggies and pickles. It’s a comforting, easy-to-make casserole perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Meat & Vegetables
- 1 lbs. lean ground beef (96/4)
- 1 lbs. russet potatoes, chopped
- 1/2 white onion, chopped
- 1 vine tomato, chopped
- A handful of white onions, chopped
- A handful of shredded iceberg lettuce
Seasonings & Condiments
- 1/4 cup water
- 1 tsp. olive oil
- 2 tsp. yellow mustard
- 1/2 tsp. garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp. onion powder
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (112g)
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise (55g)
- 1/4 cup ketchup (65g)
- 1/4 cup dill pickles, chopped
- 1 tbsp. dill pickle juice
- 1/4 cup dill pickle chips
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Potatoes: Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. Wash and chop the russet potatoes into small, bite-sized pieces, leaving the skin on to retain nutrients and flavor. Smaller pieces will cook faster and more evenly.
- Cook the Potatoes: Heat a pan over medium heat and add 1 teaspoon of olive oil. Add the chopped potatoes and 1/4 cup water. Season generously with salt and pepper. Cook, stirring frequently to prevent sticking or burning, until the potatoes begin to soften, about 5 to 10 minutes. Transfer the softened potatoes to a baking dish.
- Cook the Beef and Onion: In the same pan, add the ground beef and chopped half white onion. Cook until the beef is nearly fully browned and the onions have softened. Season with salt, pepper, 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon onion powder, and 2 teaspoons yellow mustard. Mix well, then combine this beef mixture evenly with the potatoes in the baking dish.
- Add the Cheese and Bake: Sprinkle 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the potato and beef mixture. Cover the baking dish with foil to prevent the cheese from over-browning. Place in the preheated oven and bake for 15 minutes or until the cheese has melted thoroughly.
- Prepare the Big Mac Sauce: While the casserole is baking, combine 1/4 cup mayonnaise, 1/4 cup ketchup, 1/4 cup chopped dill pickles, and 1 tablespoon dill pickle juice in a small bowl. Stir until thoroughly mixed and refrigerate until ready to use.
- Add Toppings and Serve: Once baking is done, remove the foil and casserole from the oven. Drizzle the Big Mac sauce evenly over the top. Garnish with chopped vine tomato, a handful of chopped white onions, shredded iceberg lettuce, and 1/4 cup dill pickle chips. Serve immediately and enjoy your homemade Big Mac casserole.
Notes
- Leaving the potato skins on boosts the nutritional value and adds texture.
- Adjust seasoning salt and pepper to taste as you cook.
- For a spicier twist, add a dash of cayenne pepper to the beef mixture.
- Use sharp cheddar for a richer cheese flavor or substitute with your favorite melting cheese.
- The Big Mac sauce can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
