Bacon cheeseburger casserole is like a warm hug from your favorite diner—comforting, hearty, and utterly irresistible. Imagine crispy bacon mingling with gooey cheese, all nestled atop a bed of savory ground beef and tender pasta. savory hamburger steak recipe The aroma wafting through your kitchen will have everyone asking, “What’s cooking?” This dish isn’t just food; it’s an experience that you’ll cherish. garlic steak and potatoes.
This casserole has a special place in my heart, reminding me of family game nights where laughter and friendly competition filled the air. Each bite bursts with flavor, making it the ideal comfort food for those chilly evenings when you just want to snuggle up and indulge. Get ready to dive into a crowd-pleaser that promises delightful flavors and unforgettable memories.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This bacon cheeseburger casserole is packed with flavor and is incredibly easy to prepare.
- The cheesy goodness creates a visually appealing dish perfect for gatherings.
- It’s a versatile recipe that allows you to switch up ingredients based on what’s in your fridge.
- Ideal for family dinners or potlucks, this dish is sure to impress!
Ingredients for bacon cheeseburger casserole
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Ground Beef: Use lean ground beef for a healthier option without sacrificing flavor. About 1 pound should do the trick for a hearty meal.
- Bacon: Choose thick-cut bacon for extra crunch and flavor; you’ll need about 8 slices, chopped into bits.
- Pasta: Elbow macaroni works wonderfully here, but feel free to use any short pasta you have on hand—about 2 cups should suffice.
- Shredded Cheddar Cheese: A classic choice for the cheesy layer; opt for sharp cheddar for added taste—about 2 cups will be perfect.
- Diced Tomatoes: Canned diced tomatoes add moisture and flavor; choose those with green chilies for an extra kick.
- Onion: One medium onion, chopped finely, provides depth of flavor; sautéing brings out its natural sweetness.
For the Sauce:
- Ketchup: The classic condiment adds sweetness; about half a cup will balance the flavors beautifully.
- Mustard: A tablespoon of yellow mustard will give the dish that signature burger tang.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make bacon cheeseburger casserole
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grab a large baking dish (around 9×13 inches) and lightly spray it with nonstick cooking spray to ensure nothing sticks during the baking process.
Step 2: Cook the Pasta
In a pot of boiling salted water, cook about 2 cups of elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside while you tackle the other components.
Step 3: Brown the Meat
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned, approximately 7-10 minutes. Add the chopped onion halfway through cooking so it becomes tender and fragrant. Drain excess fat if necessary.
Step 4: Cook the Bacon
In another pan (yes, we love our pans), cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy—about five minutes will do it. Remove from heat and let it drain on paper towels while you mix everything else.
Step 5: Combine Ingredients
In a large bowl, mix together the cooked pasta, browned meat mixture, crispy bacon bits, diced tomatoes (with juices), ketchup, mustard, and half of your shredded cheese. Stir well until everything is evenly coated.
Step 6: Bake It Up
Transfer your delicious mixture into the prepared baking dish and top with remaining cheese. Bake in your preheated oven for around 25-30 minutes or until bubbly and golden brown on top.
Transfer to plates and serve hot! Drizzle with extra ketchup or mustard if desired for that ultimate cheeseburger experience!
This bacon cheeseburger casserole promises mouthwatering flavors in every bite—a true comfort food that brings joy not only to your taste buds but also warms your heart during shared moments at home or lively gatherings with friends! For more inspiration, check out this Amish Country Casserole recipe.
You Must Know
- This bacon cheeseburger casserole combines the flavors of a classic burger with the convenience of a one-pan meal.
- It’s a crowd-pleaser, perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.
- Customize it to suit your tastes, and watch as everyone digs in with delight!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by browning the ground beef in a large skillet while you preheat your oven. As the meat sizzles, mix together the creamy sauce, then layer everything in a baking dish. Top with cheese and bake until bubbly perfection.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out ground beef for turkey or chicken for a lighter option. Add sautéed mushrooms, jalapeños, or even diced pickles to make it your own. Experiment with different cheeses like pepper jack or gouda for an extra kick!
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, simply pop it in the microwave or cover with foil and warm it in the oven until heated through without drying out.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For that extra cheesy goodness, add more cheese halfway through baking.
- Always drain excess grease from cooked meat to keep it flavorful and not greasy.
- Let the casserole sit for five minutes before serving to enhance flavor and texture.
Sometimes cooking can be a bit chaotic; I once spilled half the cheese on my floor while trying to multitask. My dog still remembers that “cheesy” day fondly!
FAQs:
What ingredients do I need for bacon cheeseburger casserole?
To make a delicious bacon cheeseburger casserole, you will need ground beef, bacon, cheddar cheese, egg noodles, cream of mushroom soup, and some basic seasonings like garlic powder and onion powder. You can also add diced tomatoes or pickles if you want extra flavor. This dish is versatile; feel free to adjust the ingredients based on your preferences or what you have available in your kitchen. For more inspiration, check out this Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup recipe.
How long does it take to prepare and cook bacon cheeseburger casserole?
Preparing bacon cheeseburger casserole usually takes about 15 minutes. After that, baking it in the oven takes around 30 to 35 minutes. Therefore, you can have this hearty meal ready in less than an hour! This makes it an ideal option for busy weeknights when you want something quick yet satisfying for your family.
Can I make bacon cheeseburger casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare bacon cheeseburger casserole ahead of time. Simply assemble the ingredients as directed but do not bake it right away. Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to enjoy this comforting dish, just bake it directly from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes to ensure it’s heated through.
What can I serve with bacon cheeseburger casserole?
Bacon cheeseburger casserole pairs wonderfully with various sides. Consider serving it alongside a fresh garden salad or some steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. You could also opt for classic sides like garlic bread or coleslaw to add texture and flavor to your dinner table. The options are endless when it comes to complementing this delicious casserole!
Conclusion for bacon cheeseburger casserole:
In summary, bacon cheeseburger casserole offers a delightful blend of flavors that can satisfy any craving. With simple ingredients and an easy preparation process, it’s perfect for busy families or casual gatherings. hot ham and cheese sandwiches Feel free to customize this recipe according to your taste preferences by adding toppings or side dishes. Enjoy this comforting meal that will surely become a favorite in your household!
Bacon Cheeseburger Casserole
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
Description
Bacon cheeseburger casserole is a comforting, one-pan dish that combines crispy bacon, savory ground beef, and gooey cheddar cheese over tender elbow macaroni. This hearty meal is perfect for busy weeknights or family game nights, offering a delightful blend of flavors that warms the soul and satisfies hunger. With minimal preparation and cooking time, it’s an easy crowd-pleaser everyone will love!
Ingredients
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 8 slices thick-cut bacon, chopped
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- ½ cup ketchup
- 1 tbsp yellow mustard
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Cook elbow macaroni in boiling salted water until al dente; drain and set aside.
- In a skillet over medium heat, brown ground beef for about 7-10 minutes; add onion halfway through cooking until tender. Drain excess fat.
- In another pan, cook chopped bacon until crispy, then drain on paper towels.
- In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, beef mixture, bacon bits, diced tomatoes (with juices), ketchup, mustard, and half of the cheese. Mix well.
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and top with remaining cheese. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until bubbly and golden brown.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: Approximately 1 cup (245g)
- Calories: 530
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fat: 32g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 26g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
