Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAs I was flipping through old family recipe cards, I stumbled upon a gem that whisked me back to carefree dinners of my youth—my mom’s Deconstructed Big Mac Casserole. This dish captures all those iconic fast-food flavors, but with the warmth and comfort only a homemade meal can provide. The best part? It’s a quick, crowd-pleasing wonder that you can easily adapt for any dietary preference, whether you choose ground turkey for a leaner twist or swap in gluten-free buns! Each bite is a delicious reminder that you can create those nostalgic flavors in your own kitchen without a drive-thru. Are you ready to transform your dinner table into a flavorful journey? Why is Big Mac Casserole So Special? Comforting and Nostalgic: This casserole brings the beloved flavors of a Big Mac straight to your dining table, evoking warm memories of family meals. Versatile Ingredients: Enjoy the flexibility by swapping ground beef for ground turkey or using gluten-free buns, ensuring everyone can find their perfect bite. Time-Saving Delight: Quick to prepare, this dish is ideal for busy weeknights, allowing you to serve up a hearty meal in under an hour. Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply feeding the family, this casserole is guaranteed to impress and satisfy even the pickiest eaters. Easy Cleanup: One pan to bake means less fuss and more fun, making your cooking experience as enjoyable as the meal itself. Don’t forget to check out the air fryer fries for the perfect side! Big Mac Casserole Ingredients • Dive into this flavorful dish with ingredients that recreate classic fast-food goodness! For the Beef Layer Ground Beef – Provides the rich, savory base flavor; substitute with ground turkey for a leaner option. Onions – Adds sweetness and depth; white or yellow onions work best for flavor. Garlic – Enhances flavor; feel free to use fresh or powdered garlic for convenience. Worcestershire Sauce – Infuses a savory umami touch that enhances the beef. Yellow Mustard – Contributes tang and slight acidity that balances the richness. Salt & Pepper – Essential for seasoning; adjust to your taste preferences. Garlic Powder & Onion Powder – These boost the overall flavor profile deliciously. For the Bun Layer Hamburger Buns – Create the “middle bun” layer of the casserole; consider whole grain or gluten-free options for healthier choices. Butter – Adds richness to the bun layer; olive oil can be used as a substitute for a lighter twist. Sesame Seeds – Delivers that signature flavor; omit if you prefer a simpler taste. For the Cheese Topping American Cheese – Provides that creamy melt reminiscent of fast food; swap with Velveeta or other melting varieties if preferred. Shredded Cheddar Cheese – Adds extra flavor and texture on top of the casserole. For Garnishing Pickles & Lettuce – Fresh toppings added post-baking for crunch and freshness; you can omit pickles if they’re not your favorite. For the Special Sauce Mayonnaise – Forms the creamy base of your sauce. Ketchup – Sweetness that complements the other flavors wonderfully. Sweet Pickle Relish – Adds tanginess; adjust the amount according to your taste. White Vinegar – Offers a touch of acidity. Sugar – Balances the flavors; you can tweak the sweetness as needed. Paprika, Garlic Powder, and Onion Powder – Add depth and warmth to the sauce. Get ready to craft the comforting goodness of Big Mac Casserole—a dish that captures the attention and taste buds of everyone at your table! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Big Mac Casserole Step 1: Prepare the Beef Layer In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of oil over medium heat. Sauté one pound of ground beef until it’s half-cooked, approximately 5 minutes, breaking it up as it cooks. Add diced onions and minced garlic, continuing to cook until the beef is fully browned and the onions are translucent, about an additional 5 minutes. Drain excess fat, then stir in Worcestershire sauce, yellow mustard, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Let it simmer for 5 minutes. Step 2: Toast the Bun Layer Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it’s warming, tear four hamburger buns into bite-sized pieces in a large bowl. Melt a couple of tablespoons of butter and drizzle it over the bun pieces, tossing them with sesame seeds and garlic powder until they are evenly coated. Bake the bun pieces on a baking sheet for about 5 minutes, or until they’re lightly golden and crispy. Step 3: Make the Special Sauce In a mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, ketchup, sweet pickle relish, white vinegar, sugar, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder. Stir until all ingredients are well blended, adjusting flavors to your preference. This delicious special sauce will bring the signature taste of a Big Mac to your casserole, ensuring each bite is flavorful. Step 4: Assemble the Casserole Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or oil. Layer half of the cooked beef mixture at the bottom, followed by a layer of American cheese, pickles, and half of the special sauce. Next, add half of the toasted bun pieces on top. Repeat with the remaining beef, cheese, toasted buns, and drizzle the last of the special sauce over the top for extra flavor. Step 5: Bake the Casserole Place the assembled casserole in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for about 20 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and the edges appear crispy and golden. Keep an eye on it to prevent burning, as the casserole should have a beautiful golden top while the flavors meld together. Step 6: Add Fresh Toppings Once the Big Mac Casserole is done baking, remove it from the oven and let it cool slightly for 5-10 minutes. Top each serving with fresh shredded lettuce and any remaining pickles or special sauce to add a crunch and freshness that complements the warm, cheesy casserole, enhancing that nostalgic feel with every bite. What to Serve with Big Mac Casserole Complete your meal with satisfying sides that enhance the comforting flavors of your casserole while making dinner feel like a festive feast! Crispy Air Fryer Fries: Their crispy texture and potently seasoned flavor mirror classic fast-food fries, creating a perfect pairing with the casserole. Classic Coleslaw: This refreshing crunch cuts through the richness of the casserole, offering a bright contrast with every bite. The tanginess complements the savory flavors beautifully. Creamy Mac and Cheese: Indulge in another beloved comfort food that brings a velvety richness, perfect for a cozy family gathering. This combination does not compromise on flavor or heartiness. Garlic Bread Sticks: Warm, buttery, and garlicky; these add a delightful touch to the meal while soaking up the delicious special sauce. Crisp Green Salad: Simple greens topped with your favorite dressing help balance the heaviness of the casserole, providing lightness and freshness for your palate. Sweet Potato Fries: Offering a slightly sweet alternative with a hint of spice, they pair harmoniously with the casserole’s savory elements. Homemade Pickles: Their tangy crunch punctuates the richness of the dish, adding a zing that echoes the flavors of your casserole. Chocolate Milkshake: For those who dare, a thick milkshake creates the ultimate nostalgic fast-food pairing experience—sweet and creamy bliss! Big Mac Casserole: Variations & Substitutions Feel free to explore these delightful variations that add your own twist to the Big Mac Casserole! Ground Turkey: Swap out the beef for ground turkey, adding a drizzle of olive oil to maintain moisture. This leaner option is just as delicious! Gluten-Free Buns: Use gluten-free hamburger buns if you’re avoiding gluten, allowing everyone to indulge in this comfort dish together. Vegan Option: Substitute the beef for a plant-based ground meat, and opt for dairy-free cheese to cater to vegan diets while keeping the heartiness intact. Extra Cheese Delight: Mix in a blend of cheeses like mozzarella or pepper jack for adventurous flavor layers that add gooey goodness. Spice It Up: Add crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the beef layer for a boost of heat that will tickle your taste buds. Saucier Sweetness: Replace pickles in the sauce with a few tablespoons of barbecue sauce for a smoky, sweet flavor twist that surprises every bite. Herb Infusion: Incorporate fresh herbs like basil or parsley into the beef layer for a burst of freshness that complements the savory elements beautifully. Mini Portions: For gatherings, use small baking dishes or ramekins to create individual portions that are perfect for sharing. With these variations, your Big Mac Casserole becomes a canvas for creativity—each adaptation will make it uniquely yours! And if you’re in the mood for more delectable treats, don’t miss our Caramel Macchiato Cookies that pair wonderfully as a sweet finish to your meal. Expert Tips for Big Mac Casserole Drain Properly: Make sure to drain the excess fat from the beef but leave a bit for flavor. This will keep your casserole from being greasy. Toast with Care: Watch the bun pieces closely while toasting. You want them golden, not burnt, to achieve that perfect crunch. Personalize the Sauce: Adjust the special sauce ingredients to your taste—adding more relish can give it extra tanginess, making it a true crowd-pleaser. Check the Temperature: Ensure the middle of the Big Mac Casserole is heated through before serving, especially if doubling the recipe for a gathering. Bun Options: If you need a healthy twist, don’t hesitate to swap hamburger buns for whole grain or gluten-free varieties without compromising flavor. Make Ahead Options These Big Mac Casserole preparations are a tremendous time-saver for busy weeknights! You can prepare the beef mixture and special sauce up to 24 hours in advance; just refrigerate them in airtight containers. For the bun layer, toast the bun pieces ahead of time and store them separately at room temperature to maintain their crispness. When you’re ready to serve, simply layer everything in the baking dish and bake until the cheese is bubbly and the edges are golden, usually about 20 minutes. This way, you get all the comforting flavors of your favorite Big Mac Casserole without the last-minute rush, making weekday dinners wonderfully effortless! How to Store and Freeze Big Mac Casserole Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to let the casserole cool completely before sealing to prevent moisture buildup. Freezer: If you want to freeze the casserole, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. Reheating: For best results, reheat the Big Mac Casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. If reheating from frozen, allow extra time to ensure it’s warmed all the way to the center. Serving Freshness: To maintain the best taste and texture, add fresh toppings like lettuce and pickles after reheating to keep everything crunchy and enjoyable! Big Mac Casserole Recipe FAQs How do I choose ripe ingredients for the Big Mac Casserole? Absolutely! Selecting ripe ingredients is key for the best flavor. For the beef layer, choose fresh, bright-looking ground beef with a deep red color and no off odors. When picking onions, look for ones that feel heavy for their size and have shiny, papery skins. If you’re using fresh garlic, select firm bulbs without soft spots. For toppings like lettuce and pickles, go for crisp, vibrant greens and firm pickles without dark spots or discoloration. What’s the best way to store leftovers of the Big Mac Casserole? Very! Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Allow the casserole to cool completely before sealing it to prevent moisture buildup that can make it soggy. If you plan to eat it later, consider wrapping individual portions in plastic wrap for easier reheating! Can I freeze the Big Mac Casserole? Yes, you can! To freeze, let the casserole cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil to avoid freezer burn. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating it in the oven. What should I do if the casserole is too greasy? If you find your casserole is too greasy, ensure to drain excess fat from the beef after cooking but leave a bit for flavor. Additionally, if the grease persists, you can also try using leaner meats like ground turkey. Lastly, blotting excess grease from the top with a paper towel before serving can help. Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind for the Big Mac Casserole? Yes! If you’re accommodating dietary restrictions, consider swapping out the ground beef for ground turkey or even plant-based meat alternatives. For those with gluten sensitivities, use gluten-free buns and check labels on the sauces. And if there are dairy allergies, you might want to substitute cheese with nut-based alternatives or simply omit them altogether without sacrificing the dish’s overall flavor. How do I make sure the casserole is heated through properly? Great question! To ensure the Big Mac Casserole is heated throughout, use a food thermometer to check the internal temperature, which should be at least 165°F (74°C) in the center. Bake uncovered at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, checking that the edges are bubbly and the center is hot. If doubling the recipe, you may need to extend the baking time slightly, so keep an eye on it! Big Mac Casserole: Comfort Food Your Family Will Crave Experience the iconic flavors of a Big Mac in a comforting casserole that is quick and adaptable to various dietary needs. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 15 minutes minsCook Time 30 minutes minsCooling Time 10 minutes minsTotal Time 55 minutes mins Servings: 6 servingsCourse: DinnerCuisine: AmericanCalories: 450 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Beef Layer1 pound Ground Beef substitute with ground turkey for a leaner option1 cup Onions diced; white or yellow onions preferred2 cloves Garlic minced; can use garlic powder as a substitute1 tablespoon Worcestershire Sauce1 tablespoon Yellow Mustard1 teaspoon Salt adjust to taste1 teaspoon Pepper adjust to taste1 teaspoon Garlic Powder1 teaspoon Onion PowderFor the Bun Layer4 whole Hamburger Buns consider whole grain or gluten-free options2 tablespoons Butter substitute with olive oil for a lighter option1 tablespoon Sesame Seeds omit if desiredFor the Cheese Topping8 slices American Cheese substitute with Velveeta or other melting varieties1 cup Shredded Cheddar CheeseFor Garnishing1 cup Pickles omit if not preferred1 cup Lettuce shreddedFor the Special Sauce1/2 cup Mayonnaise1/4 cup Ketchup2 tablespoons Sweet Pickle Relish adjust according to taste1 tablespoon White Vinegar1 tablespoon Sugar adjust sweetness as needed1 teaspoon Paprika1 teaspoon Garlic Powder1 teaspoon Onion Powder Equipment Large skilletBaking Sheet9x13 inch baking dishMixing Bowl Method Step-by-Step InstructionsIn a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of oil over medium heat. Sauté one pound of ground beef until it's half-cooked, approximately 5 minutes, breaking it up as it cooks. Add diced onions and minced garlic, continuing to cook until the beef is fully browned and the onions are translucent, about an additional 5 minutes. Drain excess fat, then stir in Worcestershire sauce, yellow mustard, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Let it simmer for 5 minutes.Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it’s warming, tear four hamburger buns into bite-sized pieces in a large bowl. Melt a couple of tablespoons of butter and drizzle it over the bun pieces, tossing them with sesame seeds and garlic powder until they are evenly coated. Bake the bun pieces on a baking sheet for about 5 minutes, or until they’re lightly golden and crispy.In a mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, ketchup, sweet pickle relish, white vinegar, sugar, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder. Stir until all ingredients are well blended, adjusting flavors to your preference.Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or oil. Layer half of the cooked beef mixture at the bottom, followed by a layer of American cheese, pickles, and half of the special sauce. Next, add half of the toasted bun pieces on top. Repeat with the remaining beef, cheese, toasted buns, and drizzle the last of the special sauce over the top for extra flavor.Place the assembled casserole in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for about 20 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and the edges appear crispy and golden.Once the Big Mac Casserole is done baking, remove it from the oven and let it cool slightly for 5-10 minutes. Top each serving with fresh shredded lettuce and any remaining pickles or special sauce. Nutrition Serving: 1servingCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 25gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 850mgPotassium: 400mgFiber: 2gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 2mg NotesStore leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For freezing, wrap tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, storing for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven for best results. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
