Description
This Healthy Big Mac Casserole is a flavorful, nutritious twist on the classic burger, combining lean ground beef with fresh toppings and a tangy Big Mac–style sauce. It’s a low-carb, high-protein dish that’s perfect for a quick and satisfying meal with all the beloved flavors of a Big Mac in a comforting casserole form.
Ingredients
Scale
Beef Mixture
- 1 pound lean ground beef (93% lean or higher)
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
- 2 tablespoons ketchup (no added sugar if preferred)
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 2 cups chopped romaine or iceberg lettuce
- 1 cup shredded reduced-fat cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup dill pickles, chopped
Big Mac–Style Sauce
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise (light or avocado-based)
- 1 tablespoon mustard
- 1 tablespoon pickle juice
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) to get it ready for baking the casserole.
- Cook the beef mixture: In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the lean ground beef along with the diced onion, cooking until the meat is no longer pink and the onions are soft, about 6 to 8 minutes.
- Add seasonings: Stir in minced garlic, salt, black pepper, tomato paste, yellow mustard, ketchup, paprika, and Worcestershire sauce. Mix thoroughly and let it simmer for 2 to 3 minutes so the flavors meld.
- Prepare the baking dish: Lightly grease an 8×8-inch or 9×9-inch baking dish to prevent sticking. Spread the cooked beef mixture evenly across the bottom.
- Top with cheese: Sprinkle the shredded reduced-fat cheddar cheese evenly over the beef layer.
- Bake the casserole: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 10 to 12 minutes, until the cheese has melted and is bubbly.
- Make the Big Mac sauce: While baking, whisk together plain Greek yogurt, light mayonnaise, mustard, pickle juice, garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper in a small bowl until smooth and creamy.
- Assemble and serve: Remove the casserole from the oven, then top with chopped lettuce and diced pickles. Drizzle the prepared Big Mac sauce over the top just before serving for a fresh, tangy finish.
Notes
- To reduce carbs, omit the ketchup or use a sugar-free variety.
- Feel free to add diced tomatoes for extra freshness.
- You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey for a leaner option.
- This casserole is best enjoyed immediately to keep the lettuce crisp.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
