Description
Enjoy a delicious Bacon Cheeseburger Casserole, featuring a comforting mix of ground beef, crispy bacon, creamy pasta, and melted cheese. This hearty dish is perfect for family dinners or potlucks, guaranteed to satisfy your cravings!
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 pound bacon, chopped
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 cup ketchup
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup milk
- 8 ounces elbow macaroni
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions (for garnish)
Instructions
- In a large skillet over medium heat, add the chopped bacon. Cook until crispy, about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Use a slotted spoon to transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess grease, leaving about 2 tablespoons of bacon grease in the skillet.
- Add the diced onion to the skillet and cook for about 3-4 minutes until translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Add the ground beef, breaking it up with a spatula, and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat.
- Season with salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika. Stir well to combine.
- Add the cooked bacon back into the skillet along with the ketchup and Worcestershire sauce. Mix and let simmer for 2-3 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
- While the meat mixture simmers, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 7-8 minutes.
- Drain the macaroni and return it to the pot. Add sour cream and milk, stirring until well combined.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the creamy macaroni mixture with the meat mixture, stirring until evenly distributed.
- Fold in half of the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese.
- Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter.
- Pour the combined mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly.
- Top with the remaining cheddar and mozzarella cheese.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the edges are slightly golden.
- Remove from the oven and let cool for 5-10 minutes before serving.
- Cut into squares and serve on plates. Garnish with chopped green onions. Enjoy with a side salad or your favorite vegetables!
Notes
- For a spicier kick, consider adding diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the meat mixture.
- Feel free to substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
- This casserole is versatile; you can add your favorite vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrition.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes