Best Keto Big Mac Casserole Recipe [low carb, easy]

This mouthwatering Keto Big Mac Casserole recipe is a low-carb twist on the iconic Big Mac that brings together seasoned vegan ground beef, tangy special sauce, and melty cheese in a satisfying casserole. Say goodbye to carb-heavy buns and hello to a delectable dinner that captures all the essence of a Big Mac.

Why is a Big Mac not keto

A traditional Big Mac from a fast-food restaurant is not considered keto-friendly for several reasons:

The most significant factor is the high-carbohydrate content of the bun. The standard sesame seed bun used in a Big Mac is rich in carbohydrates. Also  the special sauce in a Big Mac typically contains added sugars and other ingredients that may contribute to carb count, making it less suitable for a keto diet.

Ketchup, another common component of a Big Mac, contains sugar, which adds to the overall carbohydrate content. In a ketogenic diet, it’s essential to minimize the intake of added sugars. While onions are present in a Big Mac and can be part of a keto diet in moderation, they do contribute to the overall carb count, and some keto followers may choose to limit their onion intake.

The processed cheese used in fast-food burgers might contain additives and fillers that could have hidden carbohydrates.

In contrast, a Keto Big Mac Casserole recipe aims to recreate the flavors of a Big Mac while using keto-friendly substitutes for the high-carb components. This often involves replacing the traditional bun with low-carb alternatives, using sugar-free or keto-friendly sauces, and ensuring that all ingredients align with the principles of a ketogenic diet, which emphasizes low-carb, moderate-protein, and high-fat intake.

Ingredients needed to make Keto Big Mac Casserole

If you’re planning to make a Keto Big Mac Casserole for your next meal, here are the ingredients you’ll need for each component of the dish of this easy recipe.

For the tangy and flavorful special sauce, you’ll need sugar-free mayo, mustard, and paprika. The plant-based ground beef mixture will require cloves of garlic, onions, vegan ground beef, and olive oil.

Finally, for the casserole itself, you’ll need dill pickles, vegan cheddar cheese, and salt and black pepper to taste. These ingredients come together to make a delicious and satisfying meal that is perfect for anyone following a Keto or plant-based diet.

How to make Keto Big Mac Casserole

Do you want to make a delicious meal for dinner tonight? Let me show you how to make a mouth-watering Keto Big Mac Casserole that is sure to satisfy your taste buds.

First, preheat your oven to 400 F. Next, heat up some olive oil in a pan or large skillet and add diced onions, ground beef, and garlic. Cook the plant-based meat mixture for about 5 minutes over medium heat until the beef is nicely browned.

Then, in a bowl, mix together 1/3 of the cheddar cheese, the beef mixture, pickles, mayo, mustard, paprika, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Once everything is well combined, transfer the mixture into a casserole dish and sprinkle the remaining cheese on top.

Finally, bake the casserole in the oven for 15 minutes. When it’s done, serve it hot and enjoy the deliciousness. Sprinkle with sesame seeds for garnish on top of the casserole, if you like.

You can even store the leftovers of the Keto Big Mac Casserole in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Store the entire casserole as is or in individual portions in an airtight container. A great option for meal prep, too.

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What sides can one serve with low carb Big Mac Casserole?

Complement your Keto Big Mac Casserole with delicious low-carb sides to create a well-rounded and satisfying meal.

Consider serving it alongside a crisp and refreshing side salad, featuring mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and cucumber drizzled with a keto-friendly dressing.

Roasted Brussels sprouts or cauliflower mash make excellent warm options, adding both texture and flavor while keeping the carb count low. For a complete and hearty meal, pair your casserole with a side of sautéed spinach or steamed asparagus, rounding out the plate with nutritious and keto-approved choices.

Variations of the Keto Big Mac Casserole

The Keto Big Mac Casserole is a delicious low-carb recipe that can be customized to suit your taste preferences. There are a variety of ways to enhance the flavor and nutritional value of this classic dish.

For instance, adding crispy bacon to the ground beef layers or sprinkling it on top before baking can provide an extra burst of savory goodness and texture. You can also amp up the nutritional content by mixing in diced bell peppers, onions, and mushrooms for a colorful and veggie-packed variation.

Experimenting with different cheeses, such as cheddar, mozzarella, and Swiss, can elevate the cheesy goodness of the casserole, while adding diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper can provide a zesty kick.

For a fresh and satisfying twist, consider introducing creamy avocado slices as a topping or layer within the casserole.

Sliced hard-boiled eggs can also be incorporated into the casserole layers to enhance the flavor and contribute to the heartiness of the dish.

By mixing and matching these variations, you can create a Keto Big Mac Casserole that is both exciting and delicious.

Other easy casserole recipes to try

• Enchilada Casserole
• Stuffed Pepper Casserole
• Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole
• Cabbage Roll Casserole
• Pizza Casserole

 

If you enjoy this Keto Big Mac Casserole as an easy dinner recipe for the whole family with the flavors of the classic burger, share it on Instagram and Facebook.

Enjoy, Florian.