Whether you're searching for a new dinner idea or a dish to bring to a game day party, you can't go wrong with a bacon cheeseburger casserole. This recipe is sure to be a hit with kids, friends, and colleagues. It's basically a deconstructed cheeseburger! With every hearty bite, you'll enjoy a flavorful combination of bacon, beef, cheese, and more. Don't eat red meat? No problem — you can replace the beef with ground turkey or chicken. This bacon cheeseburger casserole will soon become a new favorite family meal.
Things You'll Need
2 cups uncooked pasta
1 lb. lean ground beef
8 to 10 bacon strips, uncooked and chopped
1 cup yellow onion, chopped
1 Tbsp. minced garlic
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 tsp. dried oregano
1 Tbsp. Worcestershire sauce
28 oz. diced canned tomatoes
2 Tbsp. yellow mustard
2 Tbsp. tomato paste or ketchup
2 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
Pickles and tomatoes for garnish (optional)
9-in. by 13-in casserole dish
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Tip
For a gluten-free version, use your favorite gluten-free pasta. You can also make a low-carb version by replacing the pasta with another 1/2 pound of beef.
1. Cook the bacon
Pre-heat the oven to 375°F.
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Chop the bacon, and then cook until crispy in a pan. Once cooked, remove the bacon, set aside, and leave some of the bacon grease in the pan.
2. Cook the onions
In the same pan, cook the onions, garlic, and spices in the leftover bacon grease over medium heat. Cook until the onions are slightly clear, about 5 to 7 minutes.
3. Cook the beef
Add the ground beef and Worcestershire sauce. As the beef cooks, crumble it up using a spatula. Cook until the beef is brown and drain the excess liquid.
4. Add the tomatoes and simmer
Add the canned tomatoes, yellow mustard, and tomato paste. Simmer for 30 to 35 minutes or until most of the liquid from the tomatoes has evaporated.
5. Cook the pasta
While the beef is simmering, cook the pasta according to the package's directions.
6. Add ingredients to a casserole dish
In a greased 9-inch by 13-inch casserole dish, combine the bacon, pasta, and beef mixture. Mix until the ingredients are evenly dispersed.
7. Top with cheese
Top with shredded cheddar cheese.
8. Bake the casserole
Bake for 10 to 15 minutes or until the cheese is completely melted. Top with diced pickles and tomatoes, if you'd like.
You can also serve this hearty dish with ketchup or BBQ sauce.
Enjoy!