Description

This Big Mac Casserole is a comforting and flavorful twist on the classic McDonald’s Big Mac, transformed into a hearty baked pasta dish. Featuring ground beef seasoned with traditional burger spices, mixed with pasta, cheddar cheese, pickles, and a tangy Thousand Island-style sauce, this casserole delivers all the beloved flavors of a Big Mac in a warm, cheesy bake that’s perfect for family dinners.

Ingredients

Scale

Beef Mixture

1 pound ground beef
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/4 cup finely chopped onion

Pasta and Cheese

2 cups cooked pasta shells or elbow macaroni
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

Additional Mix-ins

1/2 cup dill pickle slices, chopped
1/2 cup Thousand Island dressing or special sauce
1/4 cup ketchup
2 tablespoons yellow mustard

Garnish

1/4 cup shredded lettuce
1/4 cup sesame seeds (optional for topping)

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Instructions

Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit to ensure it reaches the right temperature for baking the casserole evenly.
Cook Beef Mixture: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef with finely chopped onion, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder until fully browned. Stir occasionally to break apart the meat and evenly distribute the seasoning. Drain any excess fat to avoid a greasy casserole.
Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add the cooked pasta, browned beef mixture, shredded cheddar cheese, chopped pickles, Thousand Island dressing, ketchup, and yellow mustard. Stir everything thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated and the cheese is evenly mixed throughout.
Prepare for Baking: Transfer the combined mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Use a spatula to smooth out the top for even baking and a neat presentation.
Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes until the dish is bubbly and the cheese on top has thoroughly melted and starts to turn golden around the edges.
Cool and Garnish: Remove the casserole from the oven and allow it to cool for 5 minutes to set slightly. Before serving, garnish with shredded lettuce and sprinkle sesame seeds on top if desired to replicate the Big Mac bun texture and add freshness.
Serve: Serve the casserole warm as a comforting meal that brings the classic burger flavors to your table in a convenient baked dish.

Notes

For added crunch, top the casserole with hamburger buns broken into pieces or crushed crackers before baking.
Adjust the amount of pickles or cheese to suit your taste preferences for a more tangy or cheesier casserole.
This casserole can be made ahead and refrigerated, then baked just before serving.
Substitute different pasta shapes based on what you have available; elbow macaroni or shells work best.