Introduction
All the flavors of a juicy bacon cheeseburger — but in cozy, cheesy casserole form! 🍔 The Bacon Cheeseburger Casserole is a quick, family-friendly dinner loaded with ground beef, crispy bacon, melted cheese, and tender pasta, all baked into one irresistible dish.
It’s hearty, comforting, and perfect for weeknights when you want something satisfying without the fuss of grilling burgers. Bonus: it reheats beautifully and tastes even better the next day!
Ingredients List
For 6–8 Servings
- 1 lb (450 g) ground beef
- 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups (200 g) cooked pasta (elbow, penne, or rotini)
- 1 cup (240 ml) tomato sauce
- ½ cup (120 ml) ketchup
- 2 Tbsp mustard (yellow or Dijon)
- 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream or milk
- 2 cups (200 g) shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional garnish: pickles, green onions, or extra bacon bits
Substitutions:
- Use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
- Swap pasta for cauliflower florets for a low-carb twist.
- Replace cheddar with Monterey Jack or mozzarella for a creamier texture.
Timing
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: ~40 minutes
🔥 Comfort food on the table in under an hour — and way better than takeout!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Cook the bacon
In a skillet over medium heat, cook bacon until crispy. Remove, crumble, and set aside. Keep 1 tablespoon of the bacon fat in the pan.
Step 2: Brown the beef
Add ground beef and chopped onion to the skillet. Cook until browned (5–6 minutes), breaking up with a spoon. Drain excess fat. Add garlic and cook 30 seconds more.
Step 3: Add sauces and flavor
Stir in tomato sauce, ketchup, mustard, salt, and pepper. Let simmer for 3–5 minutes to thicken slightly.
Step 4: Combine
In a large bowl, mix cooked pasta, beef mixture, half of the bacon, and half of the cheese. Stir in heavy cream for that creamy, burger-style richness.
Step 5: Bake
Pour into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Top with remaining cheese and bacon.
Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20–25 minutes, until bubbly and golden on top.
Step 6: Serve
Let cool for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with pickles or green onions for that true cheeseburger flair.
Nutritional Information (per serving, 1 of 8)
- Calories: 470 kcal
- Protein: 29 g
- Fat: 31 g
- Carbohydrates: 18 g
- Sodium: 650 mg
Healthier Alternatives
- Use whole-wheat pasta for more fiber.
- Swap heavy cream for Greek yogurt or low-fat milk.
- Reduce cheese by half — it’ll still be creamy and satisfying.
- Add veggies like spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms for extra nutrition.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with a green salad or roasted vegetables for balance.
- Pair with garlic bread or coleslaw for a diner-style meal.
- Perfect for meal prep — reheats well for quick lunches.
- Try adding a drizzle of burger sauce or BBQ sauce before serving!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the pasta: Keep it slightly firm since it’ll cook more in the oven.
- Skipping the drain step: Too much fat can make the casserole greasy.
- Using cold ingredients: Mix while everything is warm for a smooth, creamy texture.
- Overbaking: Remove once cheese is melted and bubbly to keep it moist.
Storing Tips
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freeze: Keeps for up to 2 months; thaw overnight and reheat at 350°F for 20 minutes.
- Reheat: Microwave individual servings or reheat in the oven for that freshly baked taste.
Conclusion
The Bacon Cheeseburger Casserole is comfort food at its best — hearty, cheesy, and full of bold flavors. 🍔🧀🥓 Perfect for busy nights, potlucks, or anyone craving the taste of a burger without the grill!
👉 Make it tonight, share your review below, and subscribe for more easy, crowd-pleasing dinner recipes!
FAQs
Q1: Can I make it ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble it, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.
Q2: Can I make it low-carb?
Swap the pasta for cauliflower florets or zucchini noodles.
Q3: Can I use other meats?
Absolutely — ground turkey, chicken, or even sausage all work great.
Q4: What can I top it with?
Add pickles, diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, or even crispy onion rings for a fun cheeseburger finish!
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