This Bacon Cheeseburger Casserole brings all the beloved flavors of a classic bacon cheeseburger into one incredibly satisfying, creamy, and cheesy baked pasta dish! It’s a hearty meal that promises comfort with every spoonful, perfect for any occasion.
Bacon Cheeseburger Casserole: The Ultimate Family Comfort Food Bake
Comfort Food Perfection: Why You’ll Love This Casserole
Prepare for a true comfort food experience with this incredibly easy Bacon Cheeseburger Casserole recipe! Imagine everything you adore about a juicy, flavorful bacon cheeseburger: the rich, savory ground beef, the irresistible smoky crunch of bacon, the gooey, melty cheddar cheese, and that signature tangy hint of ketchup and mustard. Now, picture all those incredible flavors harmoniously combined into a creamy, baked pasta dish that’s guaranteed to become a household favorite. It might sound like an unconventional pairing, but trust us, it works beautifully and delivers a truly satisfying meal. This casserole is not only a delightful twist on a classic American favorite but also a fantastic solution for busy weeknights, casual family dinners, or even feeding a crowd at potluck gatherings. Its ease of preparation and universal appeal make it an instant hit with both kids and adults.
Frequently Asked Questions About Bacon Cheeseburger Casserole
This Bacon Cheeseburger Casserole is absolutely best served warm, straight out of the oven, or after a brief resting period. When warm, the cheese is perfectly melted and gooey, and the creamy sauce is at its optimal consistency, coating every piece of pasta and beef. While leftovers can be enjoyed cold by some, the full flavor and texture profile is truly experienced when heated through.
Indeed! A crucial tip for pasta casseroles, especially when using smaller pasta shapes like elbow macaroni, is to cook the pasta just shy of al dente. Since it will continue to cook in the oven, cooking it slightly under will prevent it from becoming mushy. After draining, rinsing the pasta under cool water immediately helps to stop the cooking process. For larger pasta varieties like penne or rotini, this risk of overcooking is slightly lower, but the al dente rule still applies. Another tip is not to overmix the beef and sauce; gentle stirring ensures the pasta remains intact and the sauce isn’t overworked.
The beauty of this casserole is its versatility! You can truly make it your own by incorporating your favorite bacon cheeseburger toppings. Diced dill pickles, added in with the pasta or as a garnish, would lend a delightful tangy crunch. For a fresh element, a sprinkling of shredded lettuce or thinly sliced tomatoes (beyond the garnish) just before serving can brighten the dish. To mimic the texture of a burger bun, try garnishing with a few toasted sesame seeds. Other great additions include sautéed mushrooms, a dash of Worcestershire sauce for extra umami in the beef mixture, or even a different cheese blend for a unique flavor profile.
While convenience is always a factor in home cooking, preparing fresh bacon truly yields the best texture and flavor for this casserole. The crispiness and rich, smoky aroma of freshly cooked bacon are unparalleled and contribute significantly to the dish’s overall appeal. You could certainly use microwaveable bacon or pre-cooked bacon bits for a quicker assembly, but the depth of flavor and satisfying crunch might not be as pronounced. If you’re looking for an easy, less messy way to cook fresh bacon, baking it in the oven is highly recommended:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil or parchment paper for effortless cleanup.
- Arrange the bacon slices in a single layer, ensuring they do not overlap too much, allowing even crisping.
- Bake for 15-22 minutes, adjusting the time based on bacon thickness and your desired level of crispiness. Thick-cut bacon, as suggested in this recipe, typically needs 18-22 minutes, while regular slices require about 15 minutes. Keep a close eye on it towards the end, as bacon can quickly go from perfectly crisp to burnt.
- Once cooked, transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate to absorb any excess grease.
Absolutely! While this recipe is designed for oven baking, you can certainly adapt it for a slow cooker, especially if you enjoy “set it and forget it” meals. You would still need to cook the bacon and brown the ground beef with onions on the stovetop first. After draining the fat, combine the beef mixture, cooked pasta (still slightly undercooked), broth, milk, and seasonings in your slow cooker. Stir in about half of the cheese and half of the bacon. Cook on low for 2-3 hours or on high for 1-1.5 hours, or until the pasta is tender and the sauce is bubbly. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Add the remaining cheese and bacon during the last 30 minutes of cooking, allowing it to melt. Garnish with fresh tomatoes and green onions before serving.
Yes, this casserole is an excellent make-ahead option, making it ideal for meal prep or busy schedules. You can assemble the entire casserole, including the pasta, beef mixture, and cheese topping, up to a day in advance. Simply cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate. When you’re ready to bake, add an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time if baking directly from the fridge, ensuring it’s heated through and bubbly. You can also allow it to come to room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking for more even heating.
While this casserole is undeniably a hearty and complete meal on its own, it pairs wonderfully with a variety of simple side dishes. To balance the richness, a large, crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette is always a great choice. Garlic bread or a few slices of crusty bread are perfect for soaking up any extra delicious sauce. For additional vegetables, a simple side of steamed broccoli, green beans, or corn offers both nutrition and a pleasant texture contrast. Consider adding a refreshing coleslaw for a classic burger-joint feel.
Absolutely! If you’re cooking for a smaller group or simply don’t need as many servings, this recipe can easily be cut in half. Use an 8×8-inch or 9×9-inch baking dish for a halved recipe. Alternatively, you can prepare the full recipe and enjoy half now, then freeze the remaining half for a convenient future meal. This is a great strategy for efficient meal planning!
Leftovers of this Bacon Cheeseburger Casserole store and reheat exceptionally well, making it perfect for meal prepping. Store any uneaten portions in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm individual servings in the microwave until heated through, or cover the entire dish loosely with foil and reheat in the oven at 300-325°F (150-160°C) until bubbly and warm throughout. Leftovers can also be frozen for up to 3 months in an appropriate freezer-safe container. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Essential Ingredients for Your Bacon Cheeseburger Casserole
Crafting the perfect Bacon Cheeseburger Casserole begins with selecting high-quality ingredients that truly bring out those beloved burger flavors. Below is a detailed look at what you’ll need, along with helpful tips for substitutions and enhancing the overall taste and texture.
- Elbow Pasta: This small, curved pasta shape is excellent for casseroles as it perfectly cradles the creamy sauce and ground beef. While elbow macaroni is classic, feel free to experiment with other medium-sized pasta shapes like small shells, rotini, or penne. Remember to always measure your pasta before cooking it to ensure the correct quantity.
- Thick-Cut Bacon: The star of the “bacon” in bacon cheeseburger! Thick-cut bacon offers a satisfying chew and a robust smoky flavor that elevates the entire dish. If you prefer, you can substitute turkey bacon for a leaner option, though the flavor profile will be slightly different.
- Ground Beef: A cornerstone of any cheeseburger, ground beef forms the hearty base of this casserole. For a healthier alternative, ground chicken or ground turkey can be used, both of which absorb the rich flavors of the sauce beautifully. If using leaner meats, you might want to leave a tablespoon or two of bacon grease in the skillet for added flavor.
- Yellow Onion: Diced yellow onion provides an aromatic and sweet foundation for the beef mixture. It caramelizes slightly as it cooks with the ground beef, adding depth to the sauce.
- Garlic: Freshly minced garlic is always preferred for its vibrant aroma and pungent flavor, which truly enhances the savory beef. However, if convenience is key, jarred minced garlic can certainly be used without compromising the dish too much.
- Ketchup and Mustard: These two condiments are the “secret weapons” that infuse the casserole with that unmistakable tangy, sweet, and slightly spicy flavor of a classic cheeseburger. Don’t skip them even if you’re unsure; they contribute a crucial background note that ties all the flavors together.
- Smoked Paprika: Smoked paprika adds a wonderfully earthy and smoky depth to the sauce, complementing the bacon and beef. If you don’t have smoked paprika on hand, regular sweet paprika can be used as a substitute, though you’ll miss out on that specific smoky nuance.
- All-Purpose Flour: A small amount of all-purpose flour acts as a thickening agent, creating a smooth and luscious sauce when combined with the beef broth and milk. It’s essential for achieving that perfect creamy consistency.
- Beef Broth: Beef broth provides a savory liquid base for the sauce. I highly recommend using a low-sodium beef broth, as many other ingredients in the recipe (like bacon and cheese) already contribute salt. This allows you to control the overall saltiness of the dish, adding more if you feel it’s needed after tasting.
- Whole Milk: Whole milk contributes richness and creaminess to the sauce, making it incredibly comforting and luxurious. For a slightly lighter option, 2% milk can be used, but whole milk truly delivers the desired decadent texture.
- Shredded Sharp Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar cheese melts beautifully and offers a bold, tangy flavor that is essential to the cheeseburger experience. To change things up, consider using a blend of cheeses; Pepper Jack can add a touch of heat, while Gruyere offers a nutty, more sophisticated profile.
- Fresh Garnishes (Diced Tomato & Chopped Green Onions): These optional but highly recommended garnishes add a burst of freshness, color, and a final authentic burger touch to the baked casserole.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Make Bacon Cheeseburger Casserole
Follow these straightforward instructions to create a truly irresistible Bacon Cheeseburger Casserole that will quickly become a cherished family favorite. Each step is designed for ease and maximum flavor!
Prepare Your Workspace: Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Then, take a 9×13-inch baking dish and spray it thoroughly with cooking spray. This crucial step ensures that your delicious casserole won’t stick and makes cleanup a breeze.
Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of generously salted water to a rolling boil. Add 8 ounces of elbow pasta and cook it just until it’s *al dente*—meaning it’s slightly firm to the bite. It’s important not to overcook it at this stage, as the pasta will continue to cook and absorb flavors in the oven. Once cooked, drain the pasta immediately and rinse it thoroughly under cool water to halt the cooking process and prevent it from becoming mushy. Set the perfectly prepared pasta aside.
Crisp the Bacon: While your pasta is cooking, place 8 slices of thick-cut bacon in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook the bacon, flipping as needed, until each side is beautifully crispy and golden brown. Once done, transfer the crispy bacon to a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess grease. After the bacon has cooled slightly, chop it into small, uniform pieces. Carefully pour most of the rendered bacon grease out of the skillet, but consider leaving about 1-2 tablespoons if you are using lean ground beef, as this will infuse extra flavor into your beef mixture. (See the Chef’s Notes below for tips on saving bacon grease.)
Brown the Beef and Onions: Using the very same skillet (those delicious bacon drippings contribute wonderful flavor!), add 1 pound of ground beef and 1 cup of diced yellow onion. Cook the mixture over medium heat, using a spoon to break up the ground beef into small pieces, until it is fully browned and no longer pink. The onions should become tender and translucent. Once cooked, drain any excess fat from the beef mixture, ensuring a flavorful but not overly greasy base.
Season and Thicken the Base: To the browned beef and onion, add 2 minced garlic cloves, 2 tablespoons of ketchup, 1 tablespoon of yellow mustard, 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika, ½ teaspoon of salt, and ¼ teaspoon of black pepper. Stir these ingredients together thoroughly, allowing the spices and condiments to coat the beef and onions and meld their flavors for about a minute. Next, sprinkle 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour evenly over the mixture. Continue to stir constantly for 1-2 minutes until the flour is fully mixed into the beef, with no visible white flour remaining. This step creates a roux, which will serve as the thickening agent for your creamy sauce.
Create the Creamy Sauce: Slowly and gradually pour in 1 cup of beef broth and 1 cup of whole milk into the skillet, stirring continuously as you pour. This constant stirring is key to preventing lumps and ensuring a smooth sauce. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and let it cook for 3-4 minutes, or until you observe the sauce beginning to visibly thicken. The goal is a rich, velvety consistency that will generously coat the pasta.
Combine and Fold In: Remove the skillet from the heat. Immediately stir in 1 cup of shredded sharp cheddar cheese until it is completely melted and smoothly incorporated into the sauce. Then, add your reserved cooked elbow pasta to the skillet and gently stir until every piece of pasta is thoroughly coated in the delicious, cheesy beef sauce. Finally, fold in half of the chopped crispy bacon pieces, reserving the other half to sprinkle on top of the casserole before baking.
Assemble and Bake: Pour the entire pasta and beef mixture into your prepared 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Generously top the casserole with the remaining 1 cup of shredded sharp cheddar cheese and the remaining chopped bacon pieces. Place the uncovered baking dish into your preheated oven and bake for 18-20 minutes, or until the cheese is beautifully melted and bubbly, and the casserole is heated through and slightly golden on top.
Rest and Garnish: Once baked, carefully remove the casserole from the oven and allow it to rest for about 5 minutes. This resting period helps the sauce to set slightly, making it easier to serve clean portions. Just before serving, sprinkle with ¼ cup of diced tomato and ¼ cup of chopped green onions for a burst of fresh flavor, vibrant color, and an authentic burger finish. Serve warm and enjoy every comforting bite!
Crave More Comfort Food? Explore These Related Recipes!
- Slow Cooker Cheeseburger Soup
- Crock Pot Cheeseburger Macaroni
- Easy Cheesy Macaroni Skillet
- Cheeseburger Texas Toast
- Homemade Beefaroni
- Cheeseburger Macaroni Casserole
- Cheeseburger and Fries Casserole
Bacon Cheeseburger Casserole Recipe
A hearty, family-friendly casserole combining the irresistible flavors of a classic bacon cheeseburger with comforting pasta and a creamy, cheesy sauce. Perfect for an easy weeknight meal or feeding a crowd!
Rating: 5 out of 5 stars (based on 3 reviews)
Prep Time: 17 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 37 minutes
Servings: 6
Author: Brandie Skibinski
Ingredients
- 8 ounces elbow pasta (½ a 16 ounce box, measured before cooking)
- 8 slices thick-cut bacon
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 cup diced yellow onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 Tablespoons ketchup
- 1 Tablespoon yellow mustard
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (can use regular)
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 Tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 cup beef broth (low sodium recommended)
- 1 cup whole milk
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese (divided use)
- ¼ cup diced tomato, for garnish
- ¼ cup chopped green onions, for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Prepare a 9×13-inch baking dish by spraying well with cooking spray.
- Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the elbow pasta just before al dente. Drain and rinse under cool water. Set aside.
- Cook 8 slices of thick-cut bacon in a large skillet over medium heat until crispy. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain. Once cool, chop into small pieces. Drain most of the bacon grease from the skillet, leaving 1-2 tablespoons if desired.
- In the same skillet, over medium heat, add 1 pound ground beef and 1 cup diced yellow onion. Cook and crumble the ground beef until done and no longer pink. Drain any excess fat.
- Stir in 2 minced garlic cloves, 2 Tablespoons ketchup, 1 Tablespoon yellow mustard, 1 teaspoon smoked paprika, ½ teaspoon salt, and ¼ teaspoon black pepper. Sprinkle 2 Tablespoons all-purpose flour over the mixture and stir until fully mixed in.
- Slowly pour in 1 cup beef broth and 1 cup whole milk, stirring constantly. Allow the mixture to simmer for 3-4 minutes until it begins to thicken.
- Remove from heat. Stir in 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese until fully melted. Add the cooked elbow pasta and gently stir until coated. Fold in half of the chopped bacon pieces.
- Pour the pasta and beef mixture into the prepared baking dish. Top with the remaining 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese and the remaining chopped bacon pieces.
- Bake, uncovered, for 18-20 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Allow the casserole to rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with ¼ cup diced tomato and ¼ cup chopped green onions before serving. Enjoy!
Chef’s Notes & Pro Tips
- Perfect Pasta: For ideal texture, cook pasta slightly under al dente as it will continue to cook in the oven. Rinsing with cool water immediately after draining helps stop the cooking process and prevents mushiness.
- Bacon Grease Wisdom: Don’t discard that flavorful bacon grease! Store strained bacon grease in a heat-safe, lidded container in the refrigerator. It’s fantastic for cooking other dishes, adding incredible depth of flavor. If using lean ground beef, leaving a tablespoon or two of grease in the skillet can significantly enhance the beef’s flavor.
- Cheese Variations: While sharp cheddar is a classic choice, don’t hesitate to experiment! Try adding a blend of Pepper Jack for a spicy kick, or Gruyere for a sophisticated, nutty undertone. A mix of cheddar and mozzarella can also create an extra gooey top.
- Elevate Fresh Flavors: For an extra authentic burger touch, consider sprinkling a few toasted sesame seeds on top of the casserole before baking, mimicking a burger bun. Diced pickles can be stirred into the mixture or served on the side for a tangy crunch.
- Taste and Adjust: Always taste the beef mixture before adding the pasta and adjust salt and pepper as needed. This is especially important if you’re using low-sodium beef broth.
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Nutritional Information (Estimated per Serving)
Calories: 745kcal | Carbohydrates: 39g | Protein: 36g | Fat: 49g | Sodium: 1051mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 6g
Please note: This nutritional information is an estimate based on the ingredients listed. Calorie counts and other nutritional values can vary quite a bit depending on specific brands, ingredient choices, and exact measurements. “The Country Cook” is not a certified dietician or nutritionist, and this information should be used as a general guide.
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