Big Mac Casserole

Have you ever craved a classic Big Mac but wanted something that’s easier to prepare and share with family? That’s exactly how the Big Mac Casserole came to life in my kitchen. One day, I was flipping through some recipe books, and the idea struck me: why not create a casserole version of the beloved Big Mac? It’s the perfect dish for gatherings, game days, or just a cozy dinner at home. The great thing about this casserole is that it captures all the flavors of the original burger, but in a warm, comforting dish. I remember the first time I made it; the lovely aroma filled the kitchen, drawing everyone in like moths to a flame. With each bite, we were transported back to summer barbecues and road trips. It’s hard to resist seconds! Let’s dive into how this delicious comfort food can become a staple in your home.

What to Buy for Big Mac Casserole

When preparing the Big Mac Casserole, it’s essential to select high-quality ingredients that complement each other. The harmony of flavors in this dish comes from the balance between creamy, tangy, and savory components. With key players like lean ground beef and cheddar cheese, you can create a satisfying meal that everyone will love. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 1 cup mayonnaise – Adds creaminess and acts as the base for the sauce.
• ¼ cup sweet pickle relish – Provides a sweet and tangy flavor.
• 2 teaspoons white vinegar – Adds acidity to balance the richness.
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder – Enhances the depth of flavor.
• ½ teaspoon onion powder – Complements the beef beautifully.
• ½ teaspoon paprika – Adds a subtle smokiness.
• ¼ teaspoon turmeric – Provides color and a hint of warmth.
• 1 teaspoon granulated sugar – Balances out the flavors; adjust to taste.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil – For browning the beef.
• 1 pound lean ground beef – The star protein of the dish.
• ½ onion, diced – Adds sweetness and texture.
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce – Deepens the savory flavor.
• salt and pepper, to taste – Essential for seasoning.
• 3 cups frozen hash brown potatoes, diced – Forms the base of the casserole.
• 1½ cups cheddar cheese, shredded – Melts beautifully and adds flavor.
• iceburg lettuce, shredded – For garnish and a fresh crunch.
• pickles – Adds a classic touch on top.
• white onions, diced – For extra flavor and crunch.
• hamburger bun croutons, toasted and cubed – Adds a nice texture and flavor.
• sesame seeds – For a finishing touch.

Making This Big Mac Casserole

Creating the Big Mac Casserole is a delightful process that fills your kitchen with wonderful aromas. Let’s walk through the steps together, ensuring you capture all the flavors and textures.

1. Start by mixing the sauce: In a medium bowl, add 1 cup mayonnaise, ¼ cup sweet pickle relish, 2 teaspoons white vinegar, ½ teaspoon garlic powder, ½ teaspoon onion powder, ½ teaspoon paprika, ¼ teaspoon turmeric, and 1 teaspoon granulated sugar. Whisk until everything is well blended. Taste the sauce and adjust the seasonings as desired. If you prefer a sweeter sauce, add a bit more sugar.
2. Next, preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. While the oven warms up, spray a baking dish with non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
3. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, pour in 1 tablespoon olive oil. Once hot, add 1 pound lean ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a spatula, until it’s browned and no longer pink. This should take around 5 to 7 minutes.
4. Add ½ onion to the skillet and cook until it becomes softened, about 3 to 4 minutes. Stir in 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix it well to ensure the flavors meld together.
5. Remove half of the Big Mac sauce and pour it into the meat mixture, stirring to combine everything evenly.
6. Now, it’s time to layer the casserole: Place 3 cups frozen hash brown potatoes at the bottom of the prepared baking dish, spreading them out evenly.
7. Next, pour the meat mixture over the hash brown layer, spreading it out to cover the potatoes completely. Sprinkle half of the 1½ cups cheddar cheese on top.
8. Drizzle ¼ cup Big Mac sauce over the meat and potatoes for added flavor.
9. Top with the remaining shredded cheese for that gooey, melty finish.
10. Cover the casserole with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. After 25 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 5 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
11. Once done, remove from the oven and let it cool slightly. Garnish with additional white onions, pickles, and chopped iceburg lettuce. For a fun twist, sprinkle hamburger bun croutons and sesame seeds on top, if desired. Serve warm and enjoy!

Change It Up

There’s always room for creativity in the kitchen! Here are some ideas to switch up the Big Mac Casserole to suit your taste.

• Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.
• Freezing: You can freeze the casserole before baking. Just wrap it tightly and store it for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.
• Variations: Consider adding other toppings like jalapeños for a kick or different cheeses for a unique twist.
• Add veggies: Sneak in some diced bell peppers or mushrooms for added nutrition.
• Spice it up: If you love heat, add some hot sauce or red pepper flakes to the meat mixture.

Serve This Big Mac Casserole With

Serving the Big Mac Casserole can be as fun as making it! Here are some great suggestions:

• Fresh salad: A light side salad pairs perfectly to balance the richness of the casserole.
• Garlic bread: Serve with garlic bread for a comforting and filling meal.
• Coleslaw: The crunch from coleslaw adds a refreshing contrast to the warm casserole.
• Chips: For a casual vibe, serve with crunchy potato chips or homemade fries.
• Occasions: Perfect for family gatherings, game nights, or casual weeknight dinners.
• Store leftovers: Always store leftovers in an airtight container. Reheat in the microwave for a quick meal.

FAQ

Conclusion

The Big Mac Casserole is a delightful twist on a classic favorite, bringing all the flavors of a Big Mac to your dining table in an easy-to-make format. It’s a comforting dish that’s perfect for sharing, whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a party with friends. I encourage you to give this recipe a try; you’ll find that it not only satisfies cravings but also brings smiles to everyone around the table!

Big Mac Casserole

The ultimate comfort food, the Big Mac Casserole combines all the flavors of the classic burger in an easy, shareable dish. Creamy, cheesy, and oh-so-satisfying, this is an easy weeknight dinner your family will love. Make it tonight for a meal that brings everyone together!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 25 minutes mins

Total Time 40 minutes mins

Servings: 6 servings

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: American

Calories: 620

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 1 cup mayonnaise
• ¼ cup sweet pickle relish
• 2 teaspoons white vinegar
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• ¼ teaspoon turmeric
• 1 teaspoon granulated sugar more if needed to taste
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 pound lean ground beef
• ½ onion diced
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• salt and pepper to taste
• 3 cups frozen hash brown potatoes diced
• 1½ cups cheddar cheese shredded
• iceburg lettuce shredded
• pickles
• white onions diced
• hamburger bun croutons toasted and cubed
• sesame seeds

Equipment

• Oven
• Wooden Spoon
• Whisk
• Cutting Board
• Baking Sheet
• Skillet
• Mixing Bowl
• Chef's Knife

Method

 

1. Start by mixing the sauce: In a medium bowl, add 1 cup mayonnaise, ¼ cup sweet pickle relish, 2 teaspoons white vinegar, ½ teaspoon garlic powder, ½ teaspoon onion powder, ½ teaspoon paprika, ¼ teaspoon turmeric, and 1 teaspoon granulated sugar. Whisk until everything is well blended. Taste the sauce and adjust the seasonings as desired. If you prefer a sweeter sauce, add a bit more sugar.
2. Next, preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. While the oven warms up, spray a baking dish with non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
3. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, pour in 1 tablespoon olive oil. Once hot, add 1 pound lean ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a spatula, until it’s browned and no longer pink. This should take around 5 to 7 minutes.
4. Add ½ onion to the skillet and cook until it becomes softened, about 3 to 4 minutes. Stir in 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix it well to ensure the flavors meld together.
5. Remove half of the Big Mac sauce and pour it into the meat mixture, stirring to combine everything evenly.
6. Now, it’s time to layer the casserole: Place 3 cups frozen hash brown potatoes at the bottom of the prepared baking dish, spreading them out evenly.
7. Next, pour the meat mixture over the hash brown layer, spreading it out to cover the potatoes completely. Sprinkle half of the 1½ cups cheddar cheese on top.
8. Drizzle ¼ cup Big Mac sauce over the meat and potatoes for added flavor.
9. Top with the remaining shredded cheese for that gooey, melty finish.
10. Cover the casserole with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. After 25 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 5 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
11. Once done, remove from the oven and let it cool slightly. Garnish with additional white onions, pickles, and chopped iceburg lettuce. For a fun twist, sprinkle hamburger bun croutons and sesame seeds on top, if desired. Serve warm and enjoy!

Notes

Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.

Freezing: You can freeze the casserole before baking. Just wrap it tightly and store it for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.

Variations: Consider adding other toppings like jalapeños for a kick or different cheeses for a unique twist.

Add veggies: Sneak in some diced bell peppers or mushrooms for added nutrition.

Spice it up: If you love heat, add some hot sauce or red pepper flakes to the meat mixture.

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Meet Tessa Gray

I’m the “Poppy” I bring a touch of brightness and artistry to our kitchen. As our head baker, I specialize in wild-yeast sourdough and delicate pastries that use seasonal fruits and edible flowers. While I love baking, I’m also always helping Chloe and Maya cook our savory dishes. I believe every hearty meal deserves a beautiful, sweet finish!