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This hearty BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Mac 'n' Cheese Casserole combines two classic comfort foods into one irresistible dish. The creamy mac and cheese base gets an impressive upgrade with savory ground beef, smoky bacon, and tangy BBQ sauce for a dinner that satisfies all your comfort food cravings at once.
I first created this casserole during a rainy football Sunday when we were craving both burgers and something warm and cozy. The combination was such a hit that it's now requested at nearly every family gathering and potluck.
Ingredients
- Elbow macaroni: Provides the perfect shape for holding onto the cheesy sauce
- Butter and flour: Create the base for a silky smooth cheese sauce
- Whole milk and heavy cream: Deliver richness and body to the mac and cheese
- Sharp cheddar cheese: Offers that classic cheeseburger flavor
- Mozzarella cheese: Adds stretchy gooeyness when melted
- Ground beef: Gives that authentic cheeseburger taste and texture
- Fresh onion and garlic: Build a flavor foundation for the meat layer
- BBQ sauce: Introduces a sweet and tangy dimension that elevates the dish
- Worcestershire sauce: Provides umami depth and enhances the beef flavor
- Bacon: Adds smoky crunch and that irresistible bacon cheeseburger element
- Ritz crackers or panko: Create a crispy golden topping that contrasts the creamy interior
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Cook the Pasta:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add your macaroni and cook until al dente according to package directions usually 7 to 9 minutes. You want the pasta slightly firm since it will continue cooking in the oven. Drain thoroughly and set aside.
- Make the Cheese Sauce:
- Melt butter in a large saucepan over medium heat until it starts to bubble. Add flour and whisk constantly for about a minute to cook out the raw flour taste and form a light blonde roux. Gradually pour in milk and heavy cream while continuously whisking to prevent lumps from forming. Cook the mixture for 3 to 4 minutes until it thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon. Lower the heat and add the cheeses handful by handful allowing each addition to melt completely before adding more. Stir in garlic powder onion powder salt and pepper.
- Cook the Cheeseburger Mixture:
- Heat a large skillet over medium high heat. Add ground beef and diced onions breaking up the meat with a wooden spoon as it cooks. Continue cooking until the beef is no longer pink and the onions have softened about 5 to 7 minutes. Drain excess grease from the pan. Add minced garlic and cook just until fragrant about 30 seconds. Pour in BBQ sauce Worcestershire sauce and sprinkle with smoked paprika salt and pepper. Stir everything together and let simmer for 2 to 3 minutes allowing the flavors to meld.
- Assemble the Casserole:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F and grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter. Combine the cooked pasta with the cheese sauce making sure every piece of pasta is coated. Spread half of this mixture into your prepared baking dish creating an even layer. Spoon the BBQ beef mixture evenly over the pasta. Top with the remaining mac and cheese spreading it gently to cover the meat layer.
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The BBQ sauce is truly the secret ingredient that transforms this from a regular mac and cheese into something spectacular. I discovered this happy accident when I ran out of ketchup one day and my family agreed the BBQ version was even better. The slight sweetness balances the richness of the cheese and adds complexity you just can't get any other way.
Storage and Reheating
This casserole keeps beautifully in the refrigerator for up to 4 days in an airtight container. For best results when reheating individual portions use the microwave at 70% power covered with a damp paper towel to prevent the pasta from drying out. If reheating the entire casserole cover with foil and warm in a 325°F oven until heated through about 20 minutes.
Smart Substitutions
This recipe welcomes adaptation based on what you have on hand. Ground turkey or chicken can replace beef for a lighter option. Vegetarians can use plant based ground meat alternatives or even seasoned black beans. The cheese varieties can be switched up too try pepper jack for some heat or smoked gouda for extra depth. If you are gluten free simply use your favorite gluten free pasta and replace the flour with cornstarch for the cheese sauce.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty casserole with a simple green salad dressed with vinaigrette to cut through the richness. Steamed broccoli or roasted vegetables make excellent sides as well. For an extra touch of cheeseburger authenticity set out small bowls of traditional burger toppings like diced pickles sliced tomatoes shredded lettuce or even extra BBQ sauce drizzle. This interactive element makes dinner more fun especially for kids.
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This dish is a guaranteed hit and brings a smile to every table it's served at.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble the casserole up to 24 hours ahead and refrigerate covered. When ready to bake, allow it to sit at room temperature for 30 minutes, then add the topping and bake as directed, adding 5-10 minutes to the baking time.
- → What sides pair well with this casserole?
This hearty dish works beautifully with lighter sides like a simple green salad, steamed vegetables, roasted broccoli, or a tangy coleslaw to balance the richness.
- → Can I freeze this casserole?
Yes, you can freeze it either before or after baking. To freeze unbaked, assemble without the crumb topping, cover tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator, add the topping, and bake as directed. For leftovers, freeze in portion-sized containers for up to 2 months.
- → How can I make this dish spicier?
Add heat by incorporating diced jalapeños or a few dashes of hot sauce to the beef mixture. You can also use a spicy BBQ sauce or add red pepper flakes to the cheese sauce.
- → Can I use pre-cooked or rotisserie chicken instead of beef?
Absolutely! Substitute 2-3 cups of shredded chicken and toss it with the BBQ sauce and seasonings for a delicious variation. This makes for a great way to use leftover chicken.
- → What's the best BBQ sauce to use in this dish?
A smoky or hickory BBQ sauce works best to complement the bacon flavor, but you can use your family's favorite. For a different twist, try a honey BBQ sauce for sweetness or a bourbon BBQ for richness.