Instant Pot Big Mac Casserole

If you love the iconic Big Mac but want a healthier, easier version to prepare at home, the Instant Pot Big Mac Casserole is the perfect solution. This deconstructed version of the classic burger combines all the signature flavors of a Big Mac into a comforting and simple casserole. Thanks to the Instant Pot, you can make this delicious meal in just 15 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights or a quick family dinner. With savory ground beef, tangy pickles, creamy Thousand Island dressing, and a sprinkle of sesame seeds, this dish will quickly become a favorite in your recipe rotation.

Ingredients

To make this Instant Pot Big Mac Casserole, you’ll need the following ingredients:
1 pound ground beef
1/2 cup diced onions
1/2 cup diced pickles
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup Thousand Island dressing
4 cups shredded iceberg lettuce
1 cup diced tomatoes
Salt and pepper to taste
Sesame seeds for garnish

Instructions

1. Set your Instant Pot to sauté mode and brown the ground beef with the diced onions. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
2. Once the beef is fully cooked, turn off the sauté function and drain any excess fat.
3. Stir in the diced pickles and Thousand Island dressing until well mixed, ensuring the beef mixture is coated evenly.
4. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the beef mixture, but avoid stirring it in.
5. Secure the lid of the Instant Pot and set it to manual high pressure for 5 minutes.
6. After the timer beeps, quick release the pressure.
7. Serve the casserole over a bed of shredded lettuce and garnish with diced tomatoes and a sprinkle of sesame seeds for that classic Big Mac touch.

Prep Time, Cooking Time, and Servings

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes
Servings: 4

Nutritional Information

Calories per Serving: 450 kcal

Serving and Storage Tips

Serving Tips:

1. Serve over lettuce: To mimic the Big Mac experience, serve the casserole over a bed of shredded iceberg lettuce. The crispness of the lettuce balances out the richness of the casserole, just like the original burger.
2. Top with toppings: Add fresh diced tomatoes, extra pickles, or even a dollop of additional Thousand Island dressing to enhance the flavor. A sprinkle of sesame seeds will give it that signature Big Mac touch.
3. Pair with a side: This casserole pairs well with fries, onion rings, or even a light side salad for a complete meal. You can also serve it with some extra dressing on the side for dipping.

Storage Tips:

1. Refrigeration: Store leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors continue to meld, making it even more delicious the next day.
2. Freezing: If you want to store it for a longer period, freeze the casserole in an airtight container for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm it up in the microwave or on the stove.
3. Reheating: To reheat, place the casserole in the microwave, adding a little extra lettuce and toppings if desired, or warm it in the oven. Just be sure to reheat the casserole thoroughly before serving.

By following these serving and storage tips, you can enjoy this Instant Pot Big Mac Casserole for several meals, keeping it just as tasty and fresh as when you first made it!

Variations

1. Add Bacon: For extra flavor and crunch, add crispy bacon bits to the casserole. Bacon pairs beautifully with the beef and adds a smoky richness that enhances the Big Mac flavor.
2. Cheese Variations: Swap out cheddar cheese for other melty favorites like mozzarella, provolone, or even pepper jack for a spicier kick. Mixing different cheeses can also give the casserole a more complex flavor profile.
3. Add Mushrooms: For an earthy twist, sauté some mushrooms with the onions and beef. The mushrooms will absorb the flavors of the dish while adding a satisfying texture.
4. Low-Carb Version: If you’re watching your carb intake, you can replace the shredded lettuce with cauliflower rice or another low-carb option. Skip the dressing or use a low-carb alternative like a sugar-free Thousand Island dressing.
5. Vegetarian Version: Swap the ground beef for plant-based ground meat or crumbled tofu for a vegetarian version of this casserole. You can also add more vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini to add more texture and flavor.
6. Spicy Big Mac Casserole: If you love spice, add a diced jalapeño or a few dashes of hot sauce to the beef mixture. A sprinkle of chili flakes or cayenne pepper can also amp up the heat.
7. Taco Style: For a fun twist, turn this into a Taco-style casserole by adding taco seasoning to the beef and swapping the Thousand Island dressing for salsa or sour cream. You can even top it with shredded Mexican cheese.
8. Double the Beef: For a heartier version, simply increase the amount of ground beef to 1.5 or 2 pounds. This will give you more protein and a more substantial casserole.
9. Greek Style: Add chopped Kalamata olives, cucumbers, and feta cheese for a Mediterranean flair. Swap the Thousand Island dressing for a tangy Greek yogurt dressing.
10. Big Mac Casserole with Fries: For a truly indulgent take, top the casserole with frozen fries or hashbrowns before cooking, so they crisp up as it cooks, mimicking a Big Mac meal served with fries.

These variations let you personalize the Instant Pot Big Mac Casserole to your taste, making it versatile enough to suit any dietary preference or craving!

FAQs

1. Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?
   Yes, you can substitute ground turkey for ground beef in this recipe. It will result in a leaner version of the casserole but still provides great flavor.
2. Can I make this recipe without an Instant Pot?
   Yes, you can make this casserole on the stovetop. Brown the beef and onions in a skillet, then mix in the pickles and dressing. Layer with cheese and cover until the cheese melts. Finish by serving over lettuce and garnishing as directed.
3. How can I make the casserole spicier?
   To add some heat, include diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce in the beef mixture. You can also sprinkle red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.
4. Can I use a different type of cheese?
   Absolutely! While cheddar cheese is traditional, you can use mozzarella, provolone, or pepper jack cheese for different flavors. Mix and match to find your favorite combination.
5. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
   Yes, you can prepare the casserole ahead of time by browning the beef and onions and storing them in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to eat, simply assemble the casserole in the Instant Pot and cook for the recommended time.
6. Can I freeze the Instant Pot Big Mac Casserole?
   Yes, you can freeze this casserole. Allow it to cool completely, then store in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
7. How do I store leftovers?
   Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stove before serving.
8. Can I substitute the Thousand Island dressing with something else?
   If you’re not a fan of Thousand Island dressing, you can use Russian dressing, ranch dressing, or even a simple homemade sauce made from mayonnaise and ketchup as an alternative.
9. How can I make this casserole low-carb?
   For a low-carb version, use cauliflower rice instead of lettuce and skip the dressing or use a low-carb version. You can also opt for a low-carb cheese and ground turkey to reduce the carb count.
10. Can I make this casserole vegetarian?
    Yes, you can make this casserole vegetarian by replacing the ground beef with plant-based meat or crumbled tofu. Add more vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms to keep the casserole hearty and flavorful.

The Instant Pot Big Mac Casserole is an easy and delicious way to enjoy all the flavors of a Big Mac without the hassle of assembling burgers. With minimal prep time and the convenience of the Instant Pot, this dish is perfect for busy nights when you need a quick and satisfying meal. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or meal prepping for the week, this recipe is sure to become a crowd-pleaser. Try it today and enjoy a deconstructed Big Mac experience that’s both comforting and flavorful!

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