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Instant Pot Big Mac Casserole: The Ultimate Comfort Food with a Twist
Craving the iconic flavors of a Big Mac but looking for a quicker, easier way to enjoy it? Look no further than this Instant Pot Big Mac Casserole! This recipe is a simple, comforting, and hearty dish that brings all the deliciousness of the classic fast food burger into a one-pot meal. Packed with seasoned ground beef, melty cheese, pickles, and a tangy sauce, it’s the perfect dish for busy weeknights, family gatherings, or any time you’re in the mood for something indulgent.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
The Instant Pot Big Mac Casserole is a game-changer for anyone who loves the flavors of a Big Mac but doesn’t want to deal with the hassle of making individual burgers or waiting in line at the drive-thru. Here’s why you’ll love this recipe:
- Quick and Easy: With the Instant Pot, this casserole cooks up in a fraction of the time it would take to make Big Macs from scratch. No flipping burgers or waiting for the stove to heat up.
- Flavorful: It’s got all the signature Big Mac flavors—savory seasoned beef, creamy sauce, melted cheese, and a hint of pickle.
- Comforting: The casserole is warm, cheesy, and satisfying, perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying a cozy meal at home.
- Customizable: You can tweak the ingredients to fit your preferences, whether it’s adding extra pickles, making it keto-friendly, or swapping in a different type of cheese.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Instant Pot Big Mac Casserole uses simple ingredients that you likely already have in your pantry and fridge. Here’s what you’ll need to make this easy meal:
For the Casserole:
- 1 lb ground beef: The base of the casserole. You can also use ground turkey for a leaner option.
- 1 small onion, diced: Adds flavor to the meat mixture.
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese: Classic and melty cheese for the casserole.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: For extra gooeyness.
- 1/2 cup dill pickle slices, chopped: For that signature Big Mac pickle crunch.
- 1/2 cup cooked rice: Adds bulk to the casserole. You can also use cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.
For the Big Mac Sauce:
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise: The creamy base for the sauce.
- 2 tablespoons ketchup: Adds a touch of sweetness and tang.
- 1 tablespoon yellow mustard: For that perfect balance of flavor.
- 1 tablespoon white vinegar: Adds a bit of acidity.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: For a savory, aromatic kick.
- 1 teaspoon onion powder: To complement the other seasonings.
- 1 tablespoon sweet pickle relish: Brings in the sweetness and a slight tang.
- 1 teaspoon paprika: Adds color and a mild smokiness.
- Salt and pepper to taste: For seasoning.
Instructions: How to Make Instant Pot Big Mac Casserole
Step 1: Sauté the Ground Beef
Start by setting your Instant Pot to the ‘Sauté’ function. Add the ground beef and diced onion to the pot. Cook the beef, breaking it apart with a spatula, until it’s browned and fully cooked. This should take about 5-7 minutes.
Step 2: Drain Excess Fat
If your ground beef has released a lot of fat, carefully drain it off, leaving just a small amount for flavor. You can do this by either using a spoon to remove the fat or carefully draining it in a colander.