Ultimate Comfort Food: Instant Pot Big Mac Casserole

If you’re a fan of the iconic Big Mac burger from McDonald’s, you’re in for a treat! Our Instant Pot Big Mac Casserole combines all the flavors of the classic burger into a delicious and easy-to-make casserole. With layers of seasoned ground beef, gooey cheese, tangy pickles, and our special sauce, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. Plus, it’s made in the Instant Pot for quick and hassle-free cooking. Get ready to enjoy the comfort of your favorite fast food burger in casserole form!

Ingredients:

1 pound ground beef
1 onion, chopped
(6) 8″ tortilla shells
8 oz shredded American cheese
2 tablespoons sesame seeds
Sliced dill pickles
Shredded lettuce

Special Sauce:

1/2 cup mayonnaise
1/4 cup French dressing
1/2 cup dill relish

Instructions:

Making the Special Sauce:

In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, French dressing, and dill relish until well combined. Set aside.

Cooking the Ground Beef:

Set your Instant Pot to sauté mode. Once hot, add the ground beef and chopped onion to the pot.
Cook the beef, breaking it apart with a spoon, until it is browned and the onions are soft and translucent.
Drain any excess grease from the pot.

Assembling the Casserole:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Place three tortilla shells in the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish, overlapping slightly if necessary.
Spread half of the cooked ground beef mixture over the tortillas.
Drizzle half of the special sauce over the beef.
Sprinkle half of the shredded cheese over the sauce.
Repeat the layers with the remaining tortillas, ground beef, special sauce, and shredded cheese.
Sprinkle sesame seeds over the top layer of cheese.

Baking the Casserole:

Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5 minutes, or until the top is golden brown.

Serving:

Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool slightly.
Top the casserole with sliced dill pickles and shredded lettuce before serving.
Serve hot and enjoy the flavors of a Big Mac in every bite!

Cook’s Notes and Variations:

Tortilla Substitution: If you don’t have tortilla shells on hand, you can use cooked macaroni or even sliced potatoes as a base for the casserole.
Cheese Variation: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese to suit your taste preferences. Cheddar, Swiss, or even gouda would all work well in this recipe.
Add Some Heat: For a spicy twist, add some chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the ground beef mixture.

Keto and Low-Carb Versions:

Keto Option: To make a keto-friendly version of this casserole, substitute the tortilla shells with thinly sliced zucchini or layers of cauliflower rice. Use a low-carb French dressing and mayonnaise, and omit the dill relish or use a sugar-free version.
Low-Carb Variation: Reduce the number of tortilla shells or omit them entirely to lower the carb content of the casserole. You can also use lettuce leaves as wraps for a low-carb option.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

Q: Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef? A: Yes, ground turkey can be used as a leaner alternative to ground beef in this recipe. Just be sure to adjust the seasoning as needed for flavor.

Q: Can I make this casserole ahead of time? A: Yes, you can assemble the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it until ready to bake. Just be sure to cover it tightly with aluminum foil or plastic wrap to prevent it from drying out.

Q: Can I freeze leftovers? A: Yes, leftover casserole can be frozen for future meals. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container or freezer-safe bag. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake in a preheated oven until heated through.

Our Instant Pot Big Mac Casserole is the perfect way to satisfy your cravings for the classic burger without ever having to leave your home. With layers of seasoned ground beef, gooey cheese, and our special sauce, every bite is packed with flavor. Plus, it’s quick and easy to make in the Instant Pot, making it a great option for busy weeknights. So why wait? Give this recipe a try and experience the ultimate comfort food in casserole form!