Irresistible Big Mac Casserole

This Big Mac casserole is my answer to craving those classic burger flavors in a cozy family dinner. It layers seasoned ground beef, pickles, tangy sauce, and gooey cheese under a cool bed of crisp lettuce for a playful twist on takeout that you can get on the table fast.

My family treats this casserole a bit like an event There is always a little excitement when the smell fills the house and everyone gathers before it comes out of the oven for that first gooey cheesy bite

Ingredients

• Ground beef: Choose lean for less grease and rich beefy flavor
• Large onion: Dice finely so it melts into the filling and use fresh for sweetness
• Worcestershire sauce: This adds umami and a savory burger essence look for an aged bottle if possible
• Garlic powder: A pantry staple that brings quick earthy depth
• Salt and pepper: Use kosher salt and fresh cracked pepper for best results
• Dill pickle chips: Chopped small these bring tang and a signature Big Mac zing opt for crisp cold pickles from the deli case
• Shredded cheddar cheese: Go for sharp cheddar for bold cheesy flavor and slice your own for better melt
• Large eggs: These bind the casserole and provide the creamy layer fresh farm eggs offer richer flavor
• Heavy cream: The key to the decadent texture use full fat and check for the freshest date
• Mayonnaise: Brings body and that unmistakable burger sauce richness use real mayo
• Mustard: Use classic yellow for authenticity but Dijon can add a twist
• Ketchup: Gives sweet tangy notes so choose a brand with minimal corn syrup
• Onion powder: Enhances all the other flavors with a touch of bite
• Paprika: Adds color and a mellow smokiness seek out fresh paprika for vibrant taste
• Shredded iceberg lettuce: The iconic topping shred just before serving for the best crunch

Step by Step Instructions

Brown the Beef and Onion:

Cook the ground beef and diced onion over medium heat until beef is fully browned and onions are soft and translucent This can take about 8 to 10 minutes Use a wooden spoon to break beef into small crumbles for even texture Drain off as much fat as possible so the casserole is not greasy

Season and Build the Flavor:

Add the Worcestershire sauce garlic powder a pinch of salt and pepper Stir well and let cook for a further two minutes to allow flavors to develop Stirring frequently ensures nothing sticks to the pan and everything is seasoned evenly

Layer the Casserole Base:

Transfer the beef mixture into a nine by thirteen inch baking dish making sure to smooth it into an even layer Sprinkle the chopped dill pickle chips over the beef pressing gently so they nestle evenly throughout every bite

Mix the Creamy Sauce Topping:

In a large bowl whisk together the eggs heavy cream mayonnaise mustard ketchup onion powder and paprika Whisk until completely smooth and uniform It should look a bit like burger sauce but thinner This is what creates that signature soft layer over the beef

Pour and Cheese:

Evenly pour the egg sauce mixture over the beef and pickles in the baking dish Use a spatula to encourage it into every corner Sprinkle all of the shredded cheddar cheese over the top for maximum melt and flavor

Bake Until Bubbling:

Place the casserole uncovered into your preheated oven Bake for twenty five to thirty minutes until the cheese is melted golden and bubbling all over The casserole should feel set and slightly puffed up in the center

Cool and Top with Lettuce:

Let the casserole rest for at least five minutes after removing from the oven This helps slices hold together Sprinkle a generous layer of freshly shredded iceberg lettuce over the top just before serving for that signature crunch and freshness

Pin

I always look forward to biting into the tangy crisp pickles in each slice They make a huge difference and remind me of special Big Mac runs as a kid My kids now argue about who gets the last pickle loaded serving

Storage Tips

Let the casserole cool completely before covering with foil or an airtight lid Store in the fridge for up to three days The lettuce topping is best added just before serving since it gets soggy in the fridge Reheat individual slices uncovered for best texture or cover the whole dish at three hundred fifty degrees Fahrenheit until warmed through

Ingredient Substitutions

Swap ground turkey or chicken for ground beef if you want something lighter Any melty cheese works if you do not have cheddar try Monterey Jack pepper jack or even Colby Pepperoncini or bread and butter pickles can offer a new twist if dill is too strong for your taste

Serving Suggestions

Scoop hearty pieces over a bed of extra shredded lettuce for a Big Mac salad feel You can also drizzle extra burger sauce or sprinkle chopped tomatoes and onions on top Serve next to a pile of oven fries for a full diner style experience

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Cultural Context

This casserole pays homage to the fast food legend while making it family table friendly The roots go back to American casseroles where busy families could enjoy comfort food in fewer dishes It is a great example of kitchen creativity bringing the flavors we love together when we have a little more time but want the nostalgia

Recipe FAQs

→ What makes this dish taste like a Big Mac?

The blend of ground beef, dill pickles, cheddar, and a creamy mayonnaise-mustard-ketchup mixture creates classic Big Mac flavors in every bite.

→ Can I substitute ground turkey for beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey can be used in place of beef for a lighter result, though the flavor and texture may differ slightly.

→ Is the lettuce baked with the casserole?

No, the shredded iceberg lettuce is sprinkled over the baked casserole just before serving for refreshing crunch and contrast.

→ What’s the ideal type of cheese to use?

Shredded cheddar sharpness works best, but you can substitute with Colby Jack or American cheese slices for a creamier melt.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Cool the casserole completely, then refrigerate covered for up to 3 days. Add fresh lettuce just before reheating or serving.

→ Can this casserole be made ahead?

Yes, you can assemble the dish a day in advance and bake when ready. Hold off on the top lettuce until serving.