Big Mac Casserole

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

If you love Big Macs but want something more filling and homemade, this casserole is for you. It captures all the familiar flavors—savory beef, creamy sauce, pickles, cheese, and onions—without the bun. It’s easy to make, keto-friendly, and great for family dinners or potluck gatherings. It also reheats beautifully, making it ideal for leftovers.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Ground beef
• Onion (diced)
• Garlic (minced)
• Salt and black pepper
• Cheddar cheese (shredded)
• Cream cheese (softened)
• Mayonnaise
• Mustard
• Dill pickles (chopped)
• Sugar-free ketchup (or regular, if not low-carb)
• Optional: shredded lettuce and sesame seeds for garnish

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef with diced onion and garlic until browned. Drain excess fat.
3. Season with salt and pepper. Stir in cream cheese until melted and combined.
4. Spread the beef mixture evenly into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
5. In a small bowl, mix mayonnaise, mustard, and ketchup to create the “special sauce.”
6. Spread the sauce over the beef layer.
7. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly on top.
8. Bake for 20–25 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and melted.
9. Let it cool for a few minutes, then top with chopped pickles, shredded lettuce, and optional sesame seeds before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 6 servings.
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 25 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes

Variations

• Add a crust: Layer the bottom with baked crescent dough or biscuit dough for a more traditional, non-low-carb version.
• Make it spicier: Add chopped jalapeños or hot sauce to the beef or sauce.
• Use ground turkey or chicken: For a leaner option, swap the ground beef.
• Add pickles inside: Mix chopped pickles directly into the beef mixture for extra tang.
• Top with fries or tots: For a fun twist, add a layer of French fries or tater tots before baking.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
To reheat, microwave individual portions or warm in a 350°F oven until heated through.
This casserole is also freezer-friendly. Freeze in a tightly wrapped baking dish or container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

FAQs

Can I make Big Mac Casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can fully assemble it ahead and refrigerate until ready to bake. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if chilled.

What kind of cheese works best?

Sharp cheddar provides the most flavor, but you can also use American, Colby Jack, or a cheese blend.

Is this casserole keto-friendly?

Yes, as long as you use sugar-free ketchup and skip any bread or fries, this dish is low-carb and keto-friendly.

Can I add more vegetables?

Yes, sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or even riced cauliflower can be added to the beef mixture.

How do I make it taste more like a real Big Mac?

Use dill pickles, shredded iceberg lettuce, a creamy sauce with ketchup and mustard, and optionally top with sesame seeds for that burger bun vibe.

Can I use pre-made Thousand Island dressing?

Yes, you can substitute it for the homemade sauce if you’re looking for a shortcut.

What kind of ground meat is best?

80/20 ground beef offers the best flavor and juiciness, but leaner options also work.

Can I make it dairy-free?

Yes, use dairy-free cheese and a dairy-free cream cheese substitute.

How can I make it more filling?

Serve it over lettuce for a “burger bowl” effect, or add a base layer of rice, pasta, or biscuit dough.

Is it kid-friendly?

Yes! The familiar burger flavors are popular with kids, especially when topped with their favorite condiments.

Conclusion

Big Mac Casserole is a fun, flavorful dish that brings the taste of your favorite fast-food burger into a comforting, oven-baked form. Whether you’re sticking to a low-carb diet or just want something easy and satisfying, this recipe delivers big flavor with minimal fuss. Serve it up hot, pile on the toppings, and dig into a meal that’s sure to please everyone at the table.

Big Mac Casserole

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Big Mac Casserole is a low-carb, oven-baked twist on the classic fast-food burger, featuring layers of seasoned ground beef, creamy sauce, tangy pickles, and melted cheddar cheese. It’s comforting, flavorful, and keto-friendly.

• Author: Laura
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

• 1.5 lbs ground beef
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 4 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 2 tbsp yellow mustard
• 2 tbsp sugar-free ketchup (or regular if preferred)
• 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup chopped dill pickles
• Optional toppings: shredded lettuce, sesame seeds

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef with diced onion and garlic until browned. Drain excess fat.
3. Season with salt and pepper, then stir in softened cream cheese until melted and well combined.
4. Spread the beef mixture evenly into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
5. In a small bowl, mix together mayonnaise, mustard, and ketchup to create the special sauce.
6. Spread the sauce over the beef layer.
7. Top evenly with shredded cheddar cheese.
8. Bake for 20–25 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and melted.
9. Let cool for a few minutes, then garnish with chopped pickles, shredded lettuce, and optional sesame seeds before serving.

Notes

• Use ground turkey or chicken for a leaner variation.
• Substitute Thousand Island dressing for the homemade sauce as a shortcut.
• To make it spicy, add jalapeños or hot sauce to the meat or sauce.
• Top with crushed pork rinds or pickles for extra crunch.
• Use dairy-free cheese and cream cheese for a dairy-free version.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 portion
• Calories: 520
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 980mg
• Fat: 41g
• Saturated Fat: 18g
• Unsaturated Fat: 20g
• Trans Fat: 1g
• Carbohydrates: 6g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 32g
• Cholesterol: 115mg