This casserole is perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings with tender macaroni, juicy ground beef, smoky bacon, tangy BBQ sauce, and gooey cheddar cheese.

Why Make This Recipe

Quick and Easy

This casserole comes together in 40 minutes, making it a great option for busy weeknights.

Customizable

You can easily tweak the ingredients to suit your taste or use what you have on hand.

How to Make

Ingredients

Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- ½ cup BBQ sauce
- 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
- ½ onion, chopped
- 2 cups elbow macaroni, cooked
- Salt and pepper, to taste

Directions

Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Cook the Ground Beef
- In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef with chopped onions until browned.
- Season with salt and pepper. Drain any excess fat.
Prepare the Mixture
- Combine the cooked macaroni, ground beef, onion mixture, crumbled bacon, BBQ sauce, and shredded cheddar cheese in a large mixing bowl.
Assemble and Bake
- Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
- Bake in the oven for 20–25 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Serve
- Garnish with additional cheese or crumbled bacon, if desired. Serve warm and enjoy!

How to Serve BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Casserole

This casserole is a meal on its own, but you can pair it with:

A Crisp Salad: A fresh green salad balances the dish’s richness.
Garlic Bread: A slice of warm, buttery garlic bread accompanies.
Pickles: Serve with dill pickles for a tangy contrast to the BBQ sauce.

How to Store and Reheat

Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freezing: Freeze portions in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating: Warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or microwave individual portions for convenience.

Tips to Make BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Casserole

Use High-Quality BBQ Sauce: The BBQ sauce flavor makes a big difference, so choose one you love.
Enhance the Flavor: Add a sprinkle of smoked paprika or chili powder for extra depth.
Cheese Variety: Mix cheddar with Monterey Jack or mozzarella for a creamier texture.

Variations

Vegetarian Option: Swap the ground beef for plant-based crumbles or lentils and omit the bacon.
Spicy Twist: Add diced jalapeños or a spicy BBQ sauce for heat.
Loaded Version: Stir in diced tomatoes, pickles, or even a drizzle of mustard for a more authentic cheeseburger flavor.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can use any short pasta, such as penne, shells, or rotini.

2. Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! Assemble the casserole, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Bake as directed when ready to serve.

3. Can I make this dish healthier?

Use ground turkey or chicken, low-fat cheese, and turkey bacon to lighten the recipe.

BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Casserole: It’s easy to make, customizable, and perfect for feeding a crowd or meal prepping for the week. Gather ingredients, fire the oven, and enjoy this irresistible dinner tonight!