Introduction
Get ready to indulge in a warm, cheesy hug with this Loaded Bacon Cheeseburger Mac Casserole! This dish brings all the classic flavors of a delicious cheeseburger into a hearty, comforting casserole that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or cozy gatherings with family and friends. Every bite is a delightful combination of creamy cheese, savory ground beef, and crispy bacon that will leave you craving more. Let’s dive in!
Ingredients
- 8 oz elbow macaroni
- 1 lb ground beef
- 6 strips bacon, chopped
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 can (10.5 oz) creamy cheddar cheese soup
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped green onions for garnish
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 6 servings
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step ensures that your casserole will bake evenly and turn golden brown.
- Cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions. Once al dente, drain and set aside, allowing the noodles to firm up briefly.
- In a large skillet, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy and delightful. Remove the bacon and set it aside, but leave those flavorful drippings in the skillet.
- Add the ground beef, diced onion, and minced garlic to the same skillet. Sauté until the beef is browned and the onion becomes tender and translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat from the skillet.
- Stir in the cooked macaroni, crispy bacon, creamy cheddar cheese soup, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, mustard, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together until well combined, allowing those delicious flavors to meld.
- Transfer the hearty mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Top it off with a generous sprinkling of shredded mozzarella cheese.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese becomes bubbly and turns a lovely shade of golden.
- Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool slightly. Garnish with chopped green onions for a fresh pop of color and flavor before serving.
Notes or Tips
For an extra burst of flavor, consider adding your favorite burger toppings, such as diced pickles or jalapeños, into the casserole mixture. You can also try different cheese combinations to customize it to your taste. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days—if there are any leftovers!
Cooking Techniques
This casserole is a wonderful one-pan dish that marries stovetop cooking with oven baking. Sautéing helps build depth of flavor in the beef and onions, while the baking allows the cheese to melt beautifully, creating a gooey, irresistible topping. Follow this combination, and you’ll always have a dish that’s bursting with flavor and comfort.
FAQ
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the casserole in advance, cover it, and refrigerate it. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply pop it into the oven. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s coming straight from the fridge.
Can I use other pasta types instead of elbow macaroni?
Absolutely! Feel free to swap in your favorite pasta shapes, like shells or penne, for a unique twist.
Is there a vegetarian option?
To make this casserole vegetarian, replace the ground beef with a mixture of sautéed mushrooms and bell peppers, and use veggie broth instead of beef broth.
Conclusion
This Loaded Bacon Cheeseburger Mac Casserole is a delightful dish that combines comfort and nostalgia, perfect for any dinner table. With its rich flavors and creamy texture, it’s sure to become a family favorite that you’ll make time and again. Serve it up with a side salad or some garlic bread, and watch your loved ones dig in with big smiles on their faces. Enjoy every cheesy, crispy bite!