Name: BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Casserole: A Delicious Twist on a Classic Favorite
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 70 min
Yield: 8-10 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef; 1 pound bacon, chopped; 1 medium onion, diced; 3 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)

BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Casserole is a delightful twist on the classic cheeseburger that brings comfort food to a whole new level. Imagine sinking your teeth into layers of savory ground beef, crispy bacon, and gooey cheese, all enveloped in a rich BBQ sauce that tantalizes your taste buds. This dish not only satisfies your cravings but also evokes memories of summer barbecues and family gatherings, making it a beloved favorite in many households.

Originating from the heart of American cuisine, casseroles have long been a staple for their convenience and heartiness. The BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Casserole combines the best elements of a backyard cookout with the ease of a one-dish meal, making it perfect for busy weeknights or casual get-togethers. People adore this dish for its incredible flavor, satisfying texture, and the way it brings everyone together around the dinner table. Trust me, once you try this BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Casserole, it will quickly become a go-to recipe in your home!

Ingredients:

1 pound ground beef
1 pound bacon, chopped
1 medium onion, diced
3 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

In a large skillet over medium heat, add the chopped bacon. Cook until crispy, about 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.
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.
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 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it up with a spatula. 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. Drain any excess fat if necessary.
Once the beef is cooked, return the crispy bacon to the skillet and pour in the BBQ sauce. Stir well to combine and let it simmer for about 2-3 minutes to meld the flavors together. Remove from heat and set aside.

Preparing the Pasta

While the meat mixture is simmering, 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.
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

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a large mixing bowl, combine the creamy macaroni mixture with the meat and bacon mixture. Stir in half of the shredded cheddar cheese and half of the mozzarella cheese. Mix until everything is evenly distributed.
Transfer the combined mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly.

Topping the Casserole

Sprinkle the remaining cheddar and mozzarella cheese evenly over the top of the casserole. This will create a delicious cheesy crust as it bakes.
If you like a little extra flavor, you can drizzle a bit more BBQ sauce over the top of the cheese.

Baking the Casserole

Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 25 minutes.
After 25 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes before serving. This will help it set up a bit and make it easier to serve.

Garnishing and Serving

Before serving, sprinkle the chopped green onions over the top for a fresh, vibrant touch.
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.
Enjoy your BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Casserole with family and friends, and watch as they rave about this hearty, comforting dish!

Conclusion:

In wrapping up this delicious BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Casserole recipe, I can’t stress enough how much of a must-try it is for anyone looking to impress family and friends with a hearty, flavorful dish. The combination of smoky BBQ sauce, crispy bacon, and gooey cheese creates a mouthwatering experience that’s hard to resist. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.

For serving suggestions, consider pairing this casserole with a fresh side salad or some crispy sweet potato fries to balance out the richness of the dish. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can also experiment with variations by adding jalapeños for a spicy kick, or swapping out the ground beef for turkey or plant-based alternatives for a lighter option. The beauty of this BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Casserole is its versatility, allowing you to customize it to suit your taste preferences.

I wholeheartedly encourage you to give this recipe a try! I promise you won’t be disappointed. 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 BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Casserole and inspire others to dive into this delightful dish. Happy cooking!