Big Mac Casserole

I can’t even count how many times I’ve made this Big Mac Casserole, and honestly, it never gets old. If you’re anything like me and crave that savory, cheesy, tangy Big Mac flavor — but don’t want to hit the drive-thru or deal with a bunch of takeout wrappers — this recipe is going to hit the spot.

It started for me on a random weeknight when I had some ground beef, leftover pickles, and a craving I couldn’t shake. I threw it all together, and before I knew it, I had this comforting, layered dish that tasted just like a Big Mac — but in casserole form. Since then, it’s been in regular rotation at my house.

It’s simple, crowd-pleasing, and you don’t need anything fancy. Just a handful of fridge and pantry staples, and you’ll have dinner ready in under an hour. It’s also super easy to adapt if you’re low-carb, dairy-free, or cooking for picky eaters.

Let me walk you through what you’ll need.

Ingredients You’ll Need for Big Mac Casserole

This is a classic “use what you have” kind of recipe — the ingredients are flexible, and chances are, you already have most of them.

Here’s everything I use to get that iconic flavor — minus the bun.

⭐ Main Ingredients

Ingredient	Notes
Ground beef	I use 85% lean — juicy, flavorful, and easy to brown. You can sub ground turkey or chicken if you like.
Cheddar cheese	Sharp cheddar melts great and gives it that classic fast-food flavor. Go for block cheese and shred it yourself if you can.
Pickles	Chopped dill pickles are my go-to. They add that essential Big Mac tang.
Shredded lettuce	Iceberg or romaine. Add it after baking for freshness and crunch.
Diced onions	Optional, but I like to sauté them with the beef for extra flavor.
Sesame seeds	Sprinkle them on top after baking if you want that bun vibe. Totally optional, but fun.

🥣 For the Homemade “Big Mac” Sauce

This simple sauce is what ties everything together. Skip the bottled stuff — this version is easy, customizable.

You’ll need:

• ½ cup mayo (use real mayo for the best flavor)
• 1 tablespoon ketchup
• 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
• 1 tablespoon sweet relish
• 1 teaspoon white vinegar
• Pinch of onion powder

Just mix it all up in a small bowl. You can double it if you like extra sauce — no judgment here.

🔄 Optional Add-Ins & Customizations

Depending on your mood (or what’s in the fridge), here are a few swaps or add-ons I’ve tried:

Option	What It Does
Low-carb option	Skip the buns entirely or swap for cauliflower rice.
Dairy-free	Use vegan cheese and plant-based mayo.
Tomatoes (after baking)	Add diced cherry tomatoes after it’s baked for brightness.
Sautéed mushrooms	For extra umami, especially if skipping meat.
No pickles?	Use banana peppers or leave them out (but it won’t taste as “Big Mac”).

🍞 Bun or No Bun?

Here’s the thing — this casserole is great without the bread. But if you’re feeding kids or want a more traditional feel, you can cube up some sesame seed hamburger buns, toast them, and add as a bottom layer (like a base). I sometimes serve it with buns on the side, and let everyone build their own.

You really don’t need anything fancy for this. If you’ve got beef, cheese, pickles, and a few condiments, you’re 90% of the way there. Once you try this Big Mac Casserole, I promise it’ll become one of your go-to meals.

How to Make Big Mac Casserole (Step-by-Step)

If you’ve never made a Big Mac Casserole before, don’t worry — it’s way easier than you think. Everything comes together in just a few simple steps, and there’s no fancy cooking involved. I like to keep things quick, mess-free, and full of flavor.

Here’s how I make it from start to finish:

🔥 Step 1: Cook the Ground Beef

Start by heating a skillet over medium heat. Add your ground beef and break it apart with a spoon or spatula. As it browns, season it with:

Seasoning	Amount (adjust to taste)
Garlic powder	½ teaspoon
Onion powder	½ teaspoon
Salt	¼ teaspoon
Black pepper	¼ teaspoon

I sometimes add a pinch of smoked paprika too — not traditional, but it gives the beef a subtle, smoky edge that works really well.

After the ground beef is cooked through, carefully drain the extra fat to prevent the casserole from turning out greasy.

🧅 Step 2: Optional — Add Onions for More Flavor

If you like onions on your Big Mac (I do), toss in some finely diced onions during the last few minutes of cooking the beef. Let them soften and caramelize slightly. It adds a mellow sweetness that pairs perfectly with the sauce.

🥣 Step 3: Make the Sauce

This homemade Big Mac sauce is what gives the casserole its signature flavor. And no — you don’t need anything fancy or processed.

In a small bowl, stir together:

Ingredient	Amount
Mayonnaise	½ cup
Ketchup	1 tablespoon
Yellow mustard	1 tablespoon
Sweet relish	1 tablespoon
White vinegar	1 teaspoon
Onion powder	Pinch

Taste and adjust — I like mine a little tangier, so sometimes I add an extra splash of vinegar.

🧀 Step 4: Build the Layers

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grab a 9×13-inch baking dish.

Here’s how to layer your Big Mac Casserole:

1. Cooked beef mixture goes on the bottom.
2. Half of the shredded cheddar goes right on top of the beef.
3. Drizzle some of your Big Mac sauce over the cheese.
4. If you’re using toasted bread cubes (optional), add a layer here.
5. Top everything with the rest of the cheese and a few sprinkles of sesame seeds for that authentic “bun” feel.

Don’t worry if it looks simple — it all melts together in the oven.

🔥 Step 5: Bake It Up

Place the casserole in the oven and bake it uncovered for 15 to 18 minutes, until the cheese is melted and lightly browned around the edges.

If you like a little crisp on top, turn on the broiler for the last minute or two — but watch closely, it can burn fast.

🥬 Step 6: Finish with Fresh Toppings

Here’s the part that takes it from a good cheeseburger casserole to a real-deal Big Mac Casserole.

After baking, add:

• Shredded iceberg or romaine lettuce
• Extra chopped pickles
• A few cherry tomatoes (optional)
• The rest of your Big Mac sauce, drizzled over the top

This combo of hot and cold layers? It makes the whole dish come alive.

🍽️ Step 7: Serve It Up

Scoop and serve! You can enjoy this dish straight up, or with sides like oven fries, roasted veggies, or even a light salad. It reheats beautifully, too — more on that next.

Variations and Easy Swaps for Every Diet

One of the reasons I love this recipe so much (besides the flavor) is how flexible it is. Whether you’re watching carbs, avoiding dairy, or cooking for picky eaters, there’s a version of this Big Mac Casserole for you.

Here are my go-to swaps and customizations:

🔄 Low-Carb or Keto? No Problem

Skip the bun layer entirely and keep it all protein and cheese. It still tastes amazing.
Want to bulk it up a bit? Use cooked cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles as your base instead.

Carb-Free Base Ideas	How to Use
Cauliflower rice	Sauté before layering to reduce water
Chopped mushrooms	Cook with the beef for a meaty texture
Shredded cabbage	Layer raw — it softens in the oven

Want another bun-free, low-carb twist? Try our Big Mac Salad Recipe — it’s crisp, tangy, and hits the same flavor notes without needing to turn on the oven.

🧀 Dairy-Free Version

If you’re avoiding dairy, don’t worry — this casserole still works. Just swap in:

• Plant-based shredded cheese (there are lots of good melting options now)
• Dairy-free mayo for the sauce

The result is a creamy, comforting dish that’s still full of flavor — and totally friendly for sensitive stomachs.

🍗 No Beef? Use What You’ve Got

You can easily make this with other proteins. I’ve tried all of these and they turn out great:

Protein Swap	Notes
Ground turkey	Leaner, slightly lighter in flavor
Ground chicken	Neutral base, absorbs sauce flavor well
Lentils or tofu	For a meatless option

Tip: When using lean meats such as ground chicken, add a small amount of olive oil while cooking to help keep it moist.

🧄 Want More Flavor? Try These Add-Ins

This casserole is super tasty as-is, but if you want to turn it up a notch, try mixing in:

• Sautéed mushrooms
• Green onions on top after baking
• A splash of hot sauce in the beef
• A pinch of smoked paprika in the cheese layer

I’ve even tossed in chopped banana peppers for a tangy kick. Trust your cravings!

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Feeding a Family or Meal Prepping?

This dish is a total lifesaver when you need something that feeds a crowd or holds up well for leftovers.

You can:

• Double the recipe and use two pans
• Freeze one unbaked for later (just thaw before baking)
• Portion into meal prep containers for the week

The best part? Once you make this once or twice, it becomes second nature — and every time you serve it, someone will ask for the recipe.

Storage, Reheating, and Meal Prep Tips

Let’s be real — half the magic of this Big Mac Casserole is how well it holds up for leftovers. Whether you’re planning ahead for the week or just want to avoid cooking two nights in a row, this dish is a winner.

Here’s exactly how I store, reheat, and prep it like a pro:

🧊 How to Store Leftovers

Once the casserole has cooled, I portion it into airtight containers. If you’ve already added the lettuce and pickles on top, try to separate those so they don’t get soggy.

Storage Method	How Long It Lasts	Notes
In the fridge	Up to 4 days	Keep lettuce and sauce separate if possible
In the freezer	Up to 2 months	Freeze before adding fresh toppings

Tip: If you’re freezing it, use a freezer-safe baking dish and wrap it tightly with foil and plastic wrap to prevent freezer burn.

🔥 Reheating Without Drying It Out

Microwaving is fast, but it can dry out the cheese if you’re not careful. Here’s how I keep it melty and fresh:

• Microwave (Quick Option):
  Transfer a portion to a microwave-safe dish, cover with a paper towel, and reheat in 30-second intervals until warmed through.
• Oven (Best for Texture):
  Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C), cover the casserole with foil, and warm it for about 15 minutes. Remove the foil during the final 5 minutes to let the cheese melt fully.

Add fresh lettuce, pickles, and sauce after reheating, not before.

🗓️ Make-Ahead Meal Prep

This casserole is ideal for meal prep — especially if you’re following a busy weekday schedule or prepping for family meals.

You can:

• Cook the beef and make the sauce up to 3 days ahead
• Assemble the full casserole (minus the toppings), cover, and store unbaked in the fridge
• Bake it fresh when you’re ready to eat

Or — do what I often do — bake it, portion it into meal prep containers, and just add lettuce and sauce the day of.

For another flavorful, fridge-friendly recipe perfect for grab-and-go meals, try our Buffalo Chicken Wraps — they’re quick to prep and full of flavor.

What to Serve With Big Mac Casserole

Now that you’ve got the main dish covered, let’s talk about sides. This Big Mac Casserole is rich and cheesy, so I usually pair it with something fresh or crisp to balance it out.

Here are some of my favorite combos that always work:

🥗 Light, Fresh Sides

These help cut through the richness of the casserole and add some crunch.

Side Dish	Why It Works
Chopped side salad	Fresh, easy, and adds texture
Sliced cucumbers	Cool and crisp — great contrast
Coleslaw (no mayo)	Adds tang and crunch
Cherry tomatoes	Brightens up the plate

If you’re low on time, a simple bagged salad mix with a vinegar-based dressing does the trick.

🍟 Comfort Food Pairings

When I’m leaning into comfort food vibes (or feeding a hungry crowd), I’ll go full burger night with these:

• Oven-baked sweet potato fries
• Crispy potato wedges
• Roasted corn on the cob
• Baked onion rings (kid favorite in my house)

Love comfort food with a fast-food twist? Check out our Cheesy Gordita Crunch Recipe — it’s homemade, crispy, and totally satisfying.

Pro tip: Serve the casserole in bowls and let everyone scoop their own toppings — it turns dinner into a fun, build-your-own experience.

🥤 What to Drink

Skip the soda — these drink ideas feel fun, refreshing, and family-friendly:

Drink Option	Notes
Iced tea with lemon	Cleanses the palate
Sparkling water + lime	Refreshing and light
Cucumber mint water	Great if you’re going low-carb
Homemade lemonade	A sweet pairing for kids and adults

This casserole may be the star of the show, but the right sides really help it shine. Keep it simple, keep it fresh, and you’ll have a meal that hits every craving.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even though Big Mac Casserole is a beginner-friendly recipe, there are a few little things that can make a big difference in flavor and texture. I’ve made this dish more times than I can count, and here are the mistakes I’ve either made myself — or helped readers fix.

Avoid these, and your casserole will come out perfect every time:

❌ Mistake 1: Not Draining the Beef

It might sound basic, but if you don’t drain the fat from your ground beef, your casserole can end up greasy. I always cook the beef fully, then tilt the pan and use a spoon or paper towel to soak up the extra fat before layering it in.

❌ Mistake 2: Adding Lettuce Too Early

Lettuce belongs on top — after baking. If you add it before it goes in the oven, it’ll wilt and turn soggy, and no one wants that. Trust me — wait until it’s out of the oven and slightly cooled.

❌ Mistake 3: Overbaking the Cheese

You want the cheese melted, not rubbery. Once the edges start to bubble and brown lightly, it’s done. If you leave it in too long, it can dry out and lose that creamy Big Mac texture.

❌ Mistake 4: Using Pre-Shredded Cheese Only

Yes, it’s convenient — but pre-shredded cheese has anti-caking agents that make it melt less smoothly. I like to shred half a block of cheddar for that melty, gooey top layer. If you must use pre-shredded, try to mix it with fresh cheese for better melt.

❌ Mistake 5: Forgetting the Pickles

Don’t underestimate how much dill pickles bring to this dish. That tangy crunch is part of the signature Big Mac flavor. Chop them small if you’ve got picky eaters, but don’t leave them out.

❌ Bonus Tip: Don’t Skip the Sauce

The Big Mac-style sauce isn’t just for fun — it’s what transforms this from just another cheeseburger casserole into something truly crave-worthy. Make extra and keep it in the fridge — you’ll want it.

Nutrition & Diet Tips

Let’s talk nutrition and smart swaps. Big Mac Casserole might sound indulgent — and yeah, it’s definitely comfort food — but with a few tweaks, it can fit a variety of lifestyles.

🧮 Estimated Nutrition Per Serving

Note: These are ballpark numbers based on a standard recipe with lean ground beef, cheddar, and full-fat sauce. Actual values may vary depending on brands and portions.

Nutrient	Approx. Amount (per serving)
Calories	420–480
Protein	25–30g
Total Fat	30–35g
Carbs	6–10g (without bread layer)
Fiber	1–2g
Sugars	2–4g

This makes it a solid low-carb or even keto-friendly option, especially if you skip the bun base and keep the sauce sugar-light.

🥗 How to Make It Healthier (Without Losing Flavor)

I’ve made this dish a hundred different ways, and here are some of the healthiest swaps that actually work:

Swap This…	For This…	Why It Works
Regular mayo	Avocado mayo or Greek yogurt	Cuts fat and adds a protein boost
Full-fat cheddar	Part-skim or vegan cheese	Reduces calories without sacrificing melt
Ground beef (80/20)	Ground turkey or chicken	Lighter but still flavorful
Bun layer	Cauliflower rice or skip it	Saves carbs, adds fiber
Sweet relish	Dill pickles or no-sugar relish	Keeps the tang without the sugar

🧠 Portion Control Tips

Since this casserole is hearty, smaller portions are usually enough. For meal prep, I divide it into about 1.5-cup servings and pair each with a fresh vegetable side.

If you’re cooking for kids or lighter appetites, you can stretch this dish further by serving it over:

• Steamed broccoli
• A bed of lettuce (Big Mac bowl-style)
• Roasted veggie mix

And if you love casserole-style meals that the whole family will devour, Taco Spaghetti is another reader favorite — cheesy, hearty, and done in one pan.

FAQs About Big Mac Casserole

Here are the most common questions I get (or see online) about making this recipe — with real, experience-based answers that’ll help you get it right the first time.

What is Big Mac Casserole made of?

Big Mac Casserole is a baked dish inspired by the flavor of the McDonald’s Big Mac — minus the bun. It’s made with seasoned ground beef, cheddar cheese, pickles, onions, and a homemade sauce that mimics the original. You can keep it low-carb or layer it with bread or buns, depending on your preference.

Can I make Big Mac Casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely. You can assemble the casserole (without toppings) and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. Or, fully bake it, refrigerate it, and reheat it later. Just add the lettuce, pickles, and sauce after reheating to keep it fresh.

Is Big Mac Casserole keto-friendly?

Yes — if you skip the bun layer and keep an eye on your sauce ingredients (use sugar-free ketchup and relish), this dish is very keto-friendly. The beef, cheese, and sauce all fit well within a low-carb lifestyle.

What does Big Mac Casserole taste like?

It tastes like a warm, cheesy, loaded burger without the bun. You’ll get that savory beef flavor, the tang of pickles and sauce, and a creamy texture from the melted cheese. Topped with fresh lettuce and more sauce, it’s shockingly close to a Big Mac — just in a cozy, casserole form.

Can I freeze this casserole?

Yes, and it freezes really well. For best results, freeze it without the fresh toppings. Wrap tightly in foil and freeze for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and warm in the oven at 350°F until heated through.

Final Thoughts on Big Mac Casserole

If you’ve been looking for a fun, family-approved dinner that’s easy to make and full of flavor, Big Mac Casserole might just become a new favorite in your rotation. It’s a no-fuss comfort food that hits all the cravings without needing a drive-thru.

I love how flexible this recipe is — whether you’re cooking for picky eaters, meal prepping for the week, or trying to stick to low-carb meals, it delivers every time. You can keep it simple or make it your own with toppings and add-ins.

Thinking of giving it a try? I’d love to know how you make it your own. And if you’re in the mood for more one-pan meals or better-for-you fast food favorites—