Description
This Healthy Big Mac Casserole is a delicious, low-carb alternative to the classic burger, combining lean ground beef with a creamy, tangy sauce and fresh toppings. It offers all the flavors of a Big Mac in a comforting baked dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound lean ground beef (93% lean or higher)
- 1 teaspoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
- ½ cup plain Greek yogurt
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese (reduced-fat optional)
- 2 tablespoons dill pickle relish
- 3 cups chopped romaine or iceberg lettuce (for topping)
- ¼ cup diced pickles (for topping)
- 2 tablespoons sesame seeds (optional)
For the Healthy “Big Mac” Sauce
- ¼ cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
- 1 tablespoon dill pickle juice
- 1 teaspoon ketchup (optional)
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the casserole.
- Sauté Aromatics: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for 3–4 minutes until softened. Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds to release flavor.
- Cook Beef: Add the lean ground beef to the skillet along with paprika, salt, and black pepper. Cook until the beef is browned and no longer pink, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Drain excess grease if necessary to keep the dish lean.
- Add Flavorings: Stir in tomato paste, yellow mustard, Greek yogurt, and dill pickle relish into the cooked beef mixture. Mix thoroughly until the ingredients are creamy and well combined.
- Assemble Casserole: Transfer the beef mixture into a lightly greased 8×8 or 9×9-inch baking dish. Evenly sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the mixture.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Prepare Big Mac Sauce: While the casserole bakes, whisk together the Greek yogurt, yellow mustard, dill pickle juice, ketchup (if using), garlic powder, and onion powder in a small bowl until smooth.
- Finish and Serve: Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Top with chopped romaine or iceberg lettuce, diced pickles, sesame seeds if using, and drizzle with the prepared Big Mac sauce. Serve warm for best flavor.
Notes
- To make it low-carb or keto-friendly, skip ketchup and use full-fat dairy products.
- Add chopped tomatoes or red onion for extra crunch and freshness.
- This casserole pairs wonderfully with a side salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
