BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Casserole: A Delicious Twist on a Classic Favorite

BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Casserole is a delightful twist on the classic cheeseburger that brings together the smoky flavors of barbecue sauce, crispy bacon, and gooey cheese in a comforting, hearty dish. This recipe is not just a meal; it’s a celebration of flavors that many of us hold dear, reminiscent of summer cookouts and family gatherings. The combination of savory ground beef, rich barbecue sauce, and the crunch of bacon creates a symphony of taste and texture that is simply irresistible.

People love this BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Casserole for its convenience and the way it brings everyone together around the dinner table. It’s a one-pan wonder that makes cleanup a breeze, allowing you to spend more time enjoying the company of loved ones. Whether you’re serving it for a casual weeknight dinner or a festive gathering, this dish is sure to impress. Join me as we dive into this mouthwatering recipe that is bound to become a family favorite!

Ingredients:

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 pound bacon, chopped
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup BBQ sauce
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1 cup milk
• 1 package (16 oz) elbow macaroni
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 cup green onions, chopped (for garnish)

Preparing the Meat Mixture

1. In a large skillet over medium heat, add the chopped bacon. Cook until crispy, about 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.
2. Once the bacon is crispy, use a slotted spoon to remove it from the skillet and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess grease. Leave about 2 tablespoons of bacon grease in the skillet.
3. In the same skillet, add the diced onion and cook for about 3-4 minutes until it becomes translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.
4. Add the ground beef to the skillet with the onions and garlic. Season with salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, onion powder, and garlic powder. Cook until the beef is browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Make sure to break up the meat with a spatula as it cooks.
5. Once the beef is cooked, drain any excess fat from the skillet. Stir in the crispy bacon and BBQ sauce, mixing well to combine. Remove from heat and set aside.

Preparing the Pasta

1. While the meat mixture is cooling, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes.
2. Once cooked, drain the macaroni and return it to the pot. Add the sour cream and milk to the pasta, stirring until well combined. This will create a creamy base for the casserole.

Combining Ingredients

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the meat mixture with the creamy macaroni. Stir in half of the shredded cheddar cheese and half of the mozzarella cheese, mixing until everything is evenly distributed.
3. Transfer the mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
4. Top the casserole with the remaining cheddar and mozzarella cheese, ensuring an even layer over the top.

Baking the Casserole

1. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 25 minutes.
2. After 25 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
3. Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it sit for about 10 minutes before serving. This will help it set and make it easier to serve.

Garnishing and Serving

1. Before serving, sprinkle the chopped green onions over the top of the casserole for a fresh touch and added flavor.
2. Using a large spoon, scoop out portions of the casserole and serve it warm. This dish pairs wonderfully with a side salad or some garlic bread.
3. Enjoy your BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Casserole with family and friends, and watch as they rave about this delicious, hearty meal!

Storage Tips

1. If you have leftovers, allow the casserole to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
2. To reheat, simply place individual portions in the microwave

Conclusion:

In summary, this BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Casserole is an absolute must-try for anyone looking to elevate their weeknight dinner game. The combination of smoky BBQ sauce, crispy bacon, and gooey cheese creates a flavor explosion that will have your taste buds dancing with joy. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy evenings or casual gatherings with friends and family. For serving suggestions, consider pairing this delicious casserole with a fresh side salad or some crispy sweet potato fries to balance out the richness. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can also experiment with variations by adding your favorite toppings like jalapeños for a spicy kick or swapping out the ground beef for turkey or plant-based alternatives for a lighter option. I wholeheartedly encourage you to give this BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Casserole a try. I promise it will quickly become a family favorite! Once you’ve made it, I’d love to hear about your experience. Share your thoughts, any tweaks you made, or even a photo of your creation. Let’s spread the love for this mouthwatering dish together! Happy cooking!

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