Bacon Cheeseburger Casserole

Bacon Cheeseburger Casserole is a hearty, comforting dish that brings all the classic flavors of a bacon cheeseburger into an easy, family-friendly casserole. Juicy seasoned ground beef, crispy bacon, tender pasta, and plenty of melted cheese are baked together into a rich, satisfying meal that feels familiar and indulgent. This casserole is inspired by American comfort food and is perfect when you’re craving something filling, cheesy, and crowd-pleasing.

What makes this dish especially appealing is how it transforms a favorite fast-food flavor into a homemade meal. Instead of standing at the grill, everything comes together in one baking dish, making it ideal for busy weeknights, potlucks, or casual gatherings. Every bite delivers savory beef, smoky bacon, and gooey cheese in true comfort-food style.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it combines two all-time favorites—bacon cheeseburgers and casseroles—into one easy dish. It’s warm, cheesy, and incredibly satisfying, yet simple enough to prepare without stress. It’s also a guaranteed hit with both kids and adults, making it perfect for family dinners.

Why This Is a Must-Try Dish

• Classic bacon cheeseburger flavor in casserole form
• Easy to make and perfect for busy days
• Hearty, filling, and comforting
• Great for feeding a crowd
• Customizable with different cheeses and add-ins

Time, Servings, and Nutrition

• Preparation Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 30–35 minutes
• Total Time: About 55 minutes
• Servings: 6

Approximate Calories: 500–550 calories per serving

Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef
• 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups dry pasta (elbow macaroni or shells)
• 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella or Colby-Jack cheese
• 1 cup milk
• ½ cup sour cream
• ¼ cup ketchup
• 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• Nonstick cooking spray

Cooking Directions

1. Cook pasta according to package directions and drain.
2. Brown ground beef with onion and garlic.
3. Combine beef, pasta, bacon, cheese, and sauce.
4. Bake until hot and bubbly.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a casserole dish with nonstick spray.
2. Cook the Pasta: Boil pasta until al dente, then drain and set aside.
3. Cook the Beef: In a skillet, cook ground beef over medium heat until browned. Add onion and garlic and cook until softened. Drain excess grease.
4. Make the Sauce: Stir in milk, sour cream, ketchup, mustard, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
5. Assemble the Casserole: Add cooked pasta and crumbled bacon to the skillet. Stir to combine. Transfer mixture to the casserole dish.
6. Add Cheese: Sprinkle shredded cheeses evenly over the top.
7. Bake: Bake uncovered for 30–35 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
8. Rest: Let casserole sit for 5–10 minutes before serving.

How to Serve This Recipe

Serve Bacon Cheeseburger Casserole hot, straight from the oven. It pairs well with a crisp green salad, steamed vegetables, or garlic bread. For a fun twist, serve with pickles or a drizzle of extra ketchup or burger sauce on top.

Recipe Tips

• Use freshly shredded cheese for better melting.
• Don’t overcook the pasta—it will continue cooking in the oven.
• Drain grease from beef to avoid a greasy casserole.
• Add toppings after baking for extra flavor.
• Let the casserole rest before slicing for cleaner servings.

Variations (Detailed)

1. Low-Carb Version: Use cauliflower florets instead of pasta.
2. Spicy Cheeseburger Casserole: Add jalapeños or hot sauce.
3. BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger: Replace ketchup with BBQ sauce.
4. Pickle Lover’s Version: Add chopped dill pickles before baking.
5. Extra Cheesy: Add cream cheese or more shredded cheese.

Freezing and Storage

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: Freeze baked casserole for up to 3 months.
• Reheating: Reheat in oven at 350°F (175°C) or microwave until warmed through.

Special Equipment Needed

• Large skillet
• Pot for boiling pasta
• Casserole dish
• Mixing spoon or spatula

Conclusion

Bacon Cheeseburger Casserole is the ultimate comfort food that brings bold, familiar flavors to your table in an easy-to-make dish. Cheesy, savory, and deeply satisfying, it’s perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or whenever you’re craving a hearty meal. Once you try it, this casserole is sure to become a regular favorite.