BQ Bacon Cheeseburger Casserole
A rich and hearty casserole combining ground beef, crispy bacon, and gooey cheese, perfect for weeknight dinners or gatherings.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef (or turkey for a leaner option)
- 4 slices bacon, diced
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped (yellow or sweet)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup uncooked elbow macaroni (substitute with whole wheat or gluten-free pasta if desired)
- 1.5 cups beef broth (low-sodium preferred)
- 1 cup diced tomatoes (canned and drained)
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or mix with pepper jack for a spicy kick)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped green onions and pickles for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Cooking Steps
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the diced bacon until crispy, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the bacon and set aside, leaving 1 tablespoon of bacon grease in the skillet.
- Add the ground beef to the same skillet, season with salt and pepper, and cook until browned, about 5-8 minutes, breaking the meat into small pieces for even cooking.
- Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet, cooking until the onion has softened, about 3-4 minutes.
- Stir in the uncooked macaroni, beef broth, diced tomatoes, Worcestershire sauce, and crispy bacon. Ensure even distribution of ingredients.
- Transfer the mixture into a greased baking dish, top with shredded cheddar cheese, and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for 25-30 minutes until the macaroni is tender and the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Remove the casserole from the oven and let cool for a few minutes. Garnish with chopped green onions and optional pickles before serving.
Notes
To lighten the dish, consider using lean turkey or chicken, whole wheat macaroni, or adding vegetables like bell peppers or spinach. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for 3-4 days or frozen for up to 3 months.