Bacon Cheeseburger Casserole

Description:

Bacon Cheeseburger Casserole is a comforting, family-friendly dish that combines all the flavors of a classic bacon cheeseburger into a hearty casserole. It’s packed with seasoned ground beef, crispy bacon, a creamy cheese sauce, and topped with a layer of melted cheese. Perfect for an easy weeknight dinner!

Total Time:

• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Assembling Time: 10 minutes
• Baking Time: 25-30 minutes
• Total Time: 50-55 minutes

Ingredients:

• • 1 lb (450 g) ground beef
  • 6 slices of bacon, chopped
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cheddar cheese soup
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • 1 tablespoon ketchup
  • 1 tablespoon mustard
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
  • 3 cups cooked pasta (like elbow macaroni or penne)
  • 1/2 cup dill pickles, chopped (optional, for garnish)

• Fresh parsley or chives, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Equipment:

• Large skillet
• 9×13-inch baking dish
• Mixing bowl

Instructions:

Preparation (15 minutes):

1. Preheat the Oven:
   • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook the Bacon:
   • In a large skillet, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy, about 5-7 minutes. Remove with a slotted spoon and place on a paper towel-lined plate to drain. Leave about 1-2 tablespoons of bacon grease in the skillet.
3. Cook the Ground Beef:
   • In the same skillet, add the diced onion and cook for 2-3 minutes until softened. Add the garlic and cook for another minute. Add the ground beef and cook until browned and fully cooked, breaking it apart with a spoon. Drain excess fat if necessary.

Assemble the Casserole (10 minutes):

1. Mix the Cheese Sauce:
   • In a mixing bowl, combine the condensed cheddar cheese soup, milk, shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, ketchup, mustard, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir until smooth and well combined.
   • 1. Combine Ingredients:
        • Add the cooked pasta, cooked ground beef mixture, and half of the cooked bacon to the bowl with the cheese sauce. Mix thoroughly to combine.
     2. Layer the Casserole:
        • Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining bacon on top and add an additional layer of shredded cheddar cheese if desired.

     Bake the Casserole (25-30 minutes):

     1. Bake:
        • Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the casserole is heated through.
        • 1. Garnish and Serve:
             • Remove from the oven and let the casserole rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with chopped dill pickles, fresh parsley, or chives if desired.

          Nutritional Information (per serving, based on 6 servings):

          • Calories: 500-550
          • Total Fat: 35g
            • Saturated Fat: 15g
          • Cholesterol: 100mg
          • • Sodium: 900mg
            • Carbohydrates: 18g
              • Fiber: 1g
              • Sugars: 4g
            • Protein: 25g

            Notes:

            • Variations: Add toppings like tomatoes, lettuce, or jalapeños after baking for added flavor and crunch.
            • Pasta Options: You can use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta to make it healthier or gluten-free.

            Tips:

            • Make-Ahead: Prepare the casserole up to the baking step, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, remove from the fridge and bake as directed.
            • • Freezer-Friendly: You can also freeze the unbaked casserole for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed.

              This Bacon Cheeseburger Casserole brings all the best parts of a cheeseburger into a warm, comforting dish that’s sure to be a family favorite. Enjoy!