BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Casserole

When you're craving the satisfying taste of a bacon cheeseburger but want the comfort and ease of a casserole, this BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Casserole brings the best of both worlds into one hearty dish. Juicy ground beef, crispy bacon, melted cheese, and a smoky BBQ kick all come together in this dish, making it a surefire hit for casual gatherings or cozy weeknight dinners.

Each bite is packed with savory flavors, and the layered, bubbly cheese top makes it as visually appealing as it is delicious. It’s a fun twist on traditional cheeseburgers that’s perfect for feeding a crowd or satisfying the family.

One of the best things about this casserole is its versatility. It’s easy to customize, so you can adjust the flavors or ingredients to suit your preferences. You can add more veggies, swap in ground turkey for a lighter version, or even make it vegetarian by using plant-based beef and bacon substitutes.

It's also a great way to get creative with toppings—think jalapeños for a kick, pickles for tang, or even a drizzle of ranch for extra indulgence. This recipe can be tailored to just about any taste or dietary need, making it a go-to for everyone at the table!

Ingredients:

• 🥩 1 lb ground beef
• 🥓 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
• 🧅 1 small onion, diced
• 🧄 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 🍖 1 cup BBQ sauce
• 🧀 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 🧀 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 🍞 4 hamburger buns, cubed
• 🥒 ¼ cup chopped pickles (optional)
• 🥚 2 eggs
• 🥛 1 cup milk
• 🍯 2 tbsp mustard
• 🧂 1 tsp black pepper
• 🥄 1 tbsp olive oil

Preparation Time:

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes

Servings:

• Serves: 6-8

How to Prepare:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
2. Cook the beef: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until softened, then add garlic and ground beef, cooking until the beef is browned. Season with black pepper, drain any excess fat, and stir in the BBQ sauce. Remove from heat.
3. Prepare the bread mixture: In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, and mustard. Add cubed hamburger buns, stirring to coat the bread evenly. Let the mixture sit for a few minutes to allow the buns to absorb the liquid.
4. Assemble the casserole: Spread half of the bread mixture in the bottom of the baking dish. Add a layer of the BBQ beef mixture, followed by crumbled bacon, cheddar, and mozzarella cheese. Top with chopped pickles if using.
5. Add final layers: Spread the remaining bread mixture on top and finish with the rest of the cheese.
6. Bake: Place in the oven and bake for 30 minutes or until the casserole is golden and bubbly. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

FAQs

1. Can I use a meat substitute?
Yes, you can use ground turkey, chicken, or a plant-based alternative to make it vegetarian-friendly. Make sure to season well to retain that savory flavor.

2. How do I make this ahead of time?
Prepare the casserole as directed, but don’t bake it. Cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready, bake as directed, adding 10-15 minutes to ensure it’s fully warmed through.

3. Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, allow the casserole to cool completely, then portion into airtight containers. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven or microwave.

This BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Casserole is everything you love about cheeseburgers in a fun, crowd-pleasing dish. It’s quick to make, customizable, and packed with bold flavors that make it a perfect comfort meal. Whether you’re looking for an easy weeknight dinner or a dish to impress at your next gathering, this cassero