BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Casserole – Easy & Cheesy

this RECIPE

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A comforting, cheesy, smoky BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Casserole that brings all the flavors of a classic burger into one irresistible dish. Packed with crispy bacon, melted cheddar, tangy BBQ sauce, and tender pasta, this easy weeknight meal is a crowd-pleaser!

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1/2 cup BBQ sauce
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 6 slices cooked bacon, crumbled
• 1 cup cooked macaroni
• 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

1️⃣ Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a baking dish.
2️⃣ Brown ground beef in a skillet over medium heat, breaking it up as it cooks. Drain excess grease and mix in BBQ sauce.
3️⃣ Assemble the casserole – In the baking dish, combine cooked macaroni, BBQ beef mixture, and half of the shredded cheese. Stir to combine.
4️⃣ Top it off – Sprinkle breadcrumbs evenly over the top.
5️⃣ Bake for 20-25 minutes, until the casserole is heated through.
6️⃣ Add bacon & cheese – Remove from oven, sprinkle with crumbled bacon and remaining cheddar cheese, then bake for another 5 minutes, until bubbly and golden.
7️⃣ Serve hot and enjoy the cheesy, smoky goodness!

Helpful Tips

Double up for meal prep: This casserole freezes well! Make an extra batch and freeze it before baking for a quick future meal.

Make it extra crispy: Mix crushed crackers (like Ritz) or crispy fried onions with the breadcrumbs for a crunchier topping.

Cheese matters: Freshly shredded cheese melts better than pre-shredded, which contains anti-caking agents that can affect texture.

Balance the BBQ: If your BBQ sauce is too sweet, add a splash of apple cider vinegar or a dash of hot sauce to balance the flavors.

Don’t overcook the pasta: Cook your macaroni just until al dente to prevent it from getting mushy when baked.

Make it heartier: Add diced tomatoes, sautéed onions, or bell peppers to bulk up the casserole with extra texture and flavor.

Let it rest before serving: Giving the casserole 5 minutes to sit after baking helps it set up and makes serving easier.

Conservation and Storage

Refrigeration

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Let the casserole cool to room temperature before storing to prevent condensation and sogginess.

Freezing

• Unbaked: Assemble the casserole but do not bake. Cover tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to cook, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed.
• Baked: Let the casserole cool completely, then cut it into portions. Store in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months.

Reheating Instructions

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 15-20 minutes until heated through. Add a splash of BBQ sauce or broth if needed to keep it moist.
• Microwave: Heat individual portions on medium power for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through for even heating.
• Stovetop: Reheat in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a bit of water or BBQ sauce to prevent drying out.

Substitutions and Variations

Meat Swaps

• Ground Turkey or Chicken: A leaner alternative to beef, but still flavorful!
• Plant-Based Crumbles: Use vegan meat substitutes to make it vegetarian-friendly.
• Shredded Chicken: Swap the beef for shredded rotisserie chicken for a BBQ chicken casserole twist.

Pasta Options

• Gluten-Free Pasta: Use chickpea, lentil, or rice-based pasta for a gluten-free version.
• Low-Carb Alternative: Swap macaroni for roasted cauliflower or zucchini noodles.

Cheese Variations

• Smoked Gouda or Pepper Jack: For a deeper, smoky flavor or a spicy kick!
• Vegan Cheese: Dairy-free options melt well and keep it plant-based.
• Mozzarella: Makes it extra gooey and creamy!

BBQ Sauce Customization

• Tangy BBQ: Add a splash of apple cider vinegar for more bite.
• Spicy BBQ: Mix in hot sauce or chipotle powder.
• Sweet BBQ: Stir in a little honey or brown sugar for a sweeter touch.

Flavor Boosters

• Sautéed Onions & Garlic: Adds depth and richness.
• Pickles or Jalapeños: Bring a true burger flavor and extra zing.
• Crushed Doritos or Fried Onions: Swap breadcrumbs for a fun, crunchy topping.

Dietary Variations

• Dairy-Free: Use vegan cheese and skip the butter in breadcrumbs.
• Keto-Friendly: Replace pasta with cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta and breadcrumbs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! Assemble everything in the baking dish (except for the final cheese and bacon topping), cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, let it sit at room temp for 10-15 minutes, then bake as directed.

What’s the best cheese for this recipe?

Cheddar is the classic choice, but for extra flavor, try smoked gouda, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack. Want it extra gooey? Mozzarella melts beautifully!

Can I use store-bought bacon bits instead of fresh bacon?

Yes, but freshly cooked bacon adds the best crunch and smoky flavor. If using store-bought bacon bits, go for real bacon crumbles instead of the artificial kind.

How do I make this spicier?

For extra heat, try:
Adding jalapeños or diced green chilies to the beef mixture.
Using a spicy BBQ sauce or mixing in hot sauce.
Sprinkling red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper into the meat.

Can I make this casserole gluten-free?

Yep! Just use gluten-free pasta and breadcrumbs, and double-check your BBQ sauce for hidden gluten ingredients.

What side dishes go well with this?

This casserole pairs well with:
Coleslaw – adds a fresh crunch.
Pickles – for that true cheeseburger flavor.
French fries or tater tots – because, why not?
Steamed broccoli or a side salad – if you want some greens!

How do I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze individual portions for up to 2 months.

Can I use a different type of meat?

Yes! Try ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based crumbles for a twist on the classic.

Conclusion

This BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Casserole is a fast, delicious, and satisfying dish that’s perfect for family dinners, game nights, or meal prepping. Loaded with cheesy goodness, crispy bacon, and smoky BBQ flavor, it’s everything you love about a cheeseburger in one easy casserole. Try it tonight!

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