If you adore the classic flavors of a Big Mac but want something warm, homemade, and irresistibly cheesy, then you are going to fall head over heels for this Big Mac Casserole Recipe. It’s like the iconic burger transformed into a comforting, layered dish that’s perfect for family dinners or casual get-togethers. With every bite, you get the juicy seasoned beef, melty cheeses, tangy pickles, and that signature sauce all melded into one satisfying casserole that’s both nostalgic and totally crave-worthy.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe uses simple, straightforward ingredients that you probably have in your pantry or fridge right now. Each element plays a key role in building the perfect balance of texture and flavor—from the savory browned beef to the creamy cheeses and crunchy toppings.
- 2 pounds ground beef: The hearty base packed with flavor and protein for the casserole.
- 1/2 cup white onion, finely chopped: Adds a subtle sweetness and soft texture once cooked.
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper: Gives just the right little kick of warmth.
- 1 teaspoon sea salt: Enhances every ingredient’s natural taste.
- 4 oz. cream cheese, cubed: Melts into the beef for smooth, rich creaminess.
- 1 1/2 cups grated cheddar cheese, divided: Provides dreamy, gooey cheese layers.
- 4 large eggs: Binds the casserole together for a perfect, sliceable texture.
- 1/2 cup heavy cream: Adds richness and makes the egg layer extra tender.
- 1 1/2 cups shredded romaine lettuce: Gives a fresh crunch once added on top.
- 1/4 cup dill pickle slices: The tangy crunch that mimics the Big Mac’s signature bite.
- 1-2 teaspoons sesame seeds: Just like the bun – for garnish and subtle nuttiness.
- 1/2 cup sour cream: Key creamy base for the special sauce.
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise: Balances the sauce with smoothness and flavor.
- 2 teaspoons French dressing: Adds a hint of sweetness and depth to the sauce.
- 1/4 cup sweet pickle relish: The essential sweet tang that makes the sauce unforgettable.
- 1 teaspoon classic yellow mustard: Brings a mild sharpness to brighten the sauce.
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder: Boosts that onion flavor in the sauce without overpowering.
- 1 teaspoon granulated sugar: Just a touch to balance acidity and round out flavors.
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika: Adds a subtle smoky warmth to make everything pop.
How to Make Big Mac Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Beef and Onions
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F so it’s ready to go when the casserole is assembled. In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium-high heat. After the beef begins to brown, toss in the finely chopped onions to soften and sweeten the mix. Cooking until the beef is fully done and the onions are translucent brings out that perfect base flavor that reminds you exactly of a Big Mac’s savory meat.
Step 2: Melt in the Cream Cheese and Cheddar
Drain any excess fat from the cooked beef and onions to keep the casserole from being greasy. Then, mix in the cream cheese cubes and half a cup of cheddar cheese while the skillet is still warm. Stir carefully until the cheeses melt into a creamy, rich blend that will make every bite indulgent and velvety.
Step 3: Spread Beef Mixture in Baking Dish
Transfer the cheesy beef mixture evenly into a 9×13 inch baking dish. This sets the foundation of your Big Mac Casserole Recipe, giving it that dense and satisfying layer where all those tasty flavors come together.
Step 4: Prepare the Egg and Cream Layer
Whisk the eggs and heavy cream together until combined and smooth. Pour this mixture evenly over the beef in the baking dish. This step binds the casserole with a luscious, soft custard that keeps everything perfectly moist during baking.
Step 5: Add the Remaining Cheddar Cheese
Sprinkle the remaining one cup of grated cheddar cheese over the top. This creates a golden, melty cheesy crust that’s irresistible. It also seals in the moisture during baking, adding an extra layer of flavor and texture.
Step 6: Bake Until Set and Bubbling
Pop the dish into your preheated oven and bake for about 20 minutes. You’re looking for the cheese on top to be melted and bubbly and the egg mixture to set firmly, which signals it’s perfectly cooked. The aroma alone will have you eager to dive in!
Step 7: Whip Up the Special Sauce
Meanwhile, mix together the sour cream, mayonnaise, French dressing, sweet pickle relish, yellow mustard, onion powder, sugar, and smoked paprika in a small bowl. This homemade special sauce brings the iconic Big Mac flavor to life in your casserole. When the bake is ready, drizzle the sauce over the top however much you like—it’s the finishing touch that makes this dish truly special.
Step 8: Add Lettuce, Pickles, and Sesame Seeds
Sprinkle shredded romaine lettuce and dill pickle slices on top of the sauce. Finally, scatter sesame seeds over everything to evoke that classic sesame bun feel. Serve immediately for the best texture contrast between warm casserole and fresh toppings.
How to Serve Big Mac Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
The layered goodness of this casserole really shines with fresh garnishes. Adding crisp romaine lettuce and crunchy dill pickle slices gives the dish a delightful contrast while the sesame seeds lend a subtle nuttiness. Feel free to add extra chopped onions, or even tomato slices on the side to amp up the freshness.
Side Dishes
Big Mac Casserole pairs beautifully with light and simple sides. Consider some crunchy celery sticks, sweet potato fries, or a crisp garden salad with a zesty vinaigrette. These help balance the richness of the casserole and keep your meal feeling fresh and vibrant.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to impress at a potluck or family meal? Serve the casserole in individual ramekins for personal portions or layer some shredded lettuce and pickles inside clear glass bowls for a fun deconstructed surprise. You can also sprinkle extra cheddar and sesame seeds just before serving for an extra cheesy, fancy finish.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Big Mac Casserole keeps well stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just cover it tightly to prevent it from drying out. Reheat slices gently to keep the texture and flavors fresh.
Freezing
This casserole freezes wonderfully, making it a perfect make-ahead meal. Freeze individual portions or the whole casserole in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Be sure to thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for the best results.
Reheating
Reheat your Big Mac Casserole gently in the oven at 325°F until warmed through to keep the cheese melty and the texture just right. Avoid microwaving at full power to prevent rubbery eggs or dried-out beef. Cover with foil to retain moisture and remove the cover near the end if you want to refresh the cheese topping.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey instead of beef in the Big Mac Casserole Recipe?
Absolutely! Ground turkey works as a leaner alternative and will still taste great, though the flavor and juiciness will be a bit different. Just be sure to cook it thoroughly and adjust seasoning as needed.
Is the Big Mac sauce necessary, or can I use store-bought?
The homemade sauce really brings this casserole alive by capturing that classic tangy and creamy flavor. However, if you’re short on time, a good-quality store-bought Big Mac or special burger sauce can work as a convenient substitute.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! The original recipe does not contain gluten ingredients. Just check that your French dressing and other condiments are gluten-free certified, and you’re good to go.
How spicy is this casserole?
This dish is mild and friendly for all tastes, with just a hint of smokiness from paprika. You can easily add a pinch of cayenne or hot sauce if you like a bit of heat.
What is the best cheese to use in this recipe?
Cheddar cheese is the classic choice thanks to its sharpness and meltability, but you can experiment with American cheese for extra creaminess or a blend with mozzarella for a gooey texture.
Final Thoughts
If you’ve been craving those Big Mac flavors but want a warm, hearty meal you can make at home, this Big Mac Casserole Recipe is an absolute must-try. It takes all the familiar favorites and turns them into a cozy casserole you can enjoy anytime. Go ahead and whip this up—you might just find a new family favorite that’s way better than fast food!
Print
Big Mac Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Big Mac Casserole combines all the classic flavors of the iconic burger into a comforting, easy-to-make casserole. Featuring seasoned ground beef, creamy cheeses, a custard-like egg mixture, and a tangy homemade Big Mac sauce, this dish is topped with crisp lettuce and pickles for the perfect finish. Ideal for a family dinner or meal prep, it delivers all the Big Mac goodness without the bun.
Ingredients
Meat Mixture
- 2 pounds ground beef (browned)
- 1/2 cup white onion (finely chopped)
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
- 4 oz. cream cheese (cut into small cubes)
- 1 1/2 cups grated cheddar cheese (divided)
Egg Mixture
- 4 large eggs
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
Toppings
- 1 1/2 cups shredded romaine lettuce
- 1/4 cup dill pickle slices
- 1–2 teaspoons sesame seeds
Big Mac Sauce
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 teaspoons French dressing
- 1/4 cup sweet pickle relish
- 1 teaspoon classic yellow mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
Instructions
- Brown the Beef and Onions: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef. Once the beef is partially browned, add the finely chopped onions and continue cooking until the beef is fully cooked through and the onions are soft and translucent.
- Add Cream Cheese and Cheddar: Drain any excess fat and liquid from the skillet. Add the cream cheese cubes and 1/2 cup of the grated cheddar cheese to the beef mixture. Stir continuously until the cheeses have melted and are evenly incorporated.
- Spread Beef Mixture: Transfer the beef and cheese mixture evenly into a 9×13 inch baking dish, spreading it out to the edges in an even layer.
- Prepare and Add Egg Mixture: In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs and heavy cream until fully combined. Pour this egg mixture evenly over the beef layer in the baking dish.
- Top with Remaining Cheddar: Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of grated cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the egg and beef mixture.
- Bake the Casserole: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20 minutes. The casserole is done when the cheese is melted, and the egg and meat mixture is set and firm to the touch.
- Mix the Big Mac Sauce: While the casserole is baking, combine sour cream, mayonnaise, French dressing, sweet pickle relish, yellow mustard, onion powder, granulated sugar, and smoked paprika in a small bowl. Whisk until smooth and fully combined.
- Assemble and Serve: Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and pour the prepared Big Mac sauce evenly over the top to taste. Sprinkle shredded romaine lettuce, dill pickle slices, and sesame seeds across the top. Serve immediately for best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Use a non-stick skillet or drain the beef well to avoid excess grease in the casserole.
- Adjust the amount of Big Mac sauce to suit your taste preference.
- For a slightly crispier top, broil the casserole for 2-3 minutes after baking (watch carefully to avoid burning).
- This casserole can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
- Feel free to add extra seasoning like garlic powder or smoked paprika to the beef for additional flavor.
