Oh my goodness, if you’re like me and love BBQ flavors mixed with comforting classics, then this must try BBQ bacon cheeseburger mac n cheese casserole is going to be your new favorite dish! Picture this: creamy mac n cheese, savory ground beef, crispy bacon, and that sweet tang of BBQ sauce all baked together into a luscious casserole. It’s like having a backyard BBQ and a cozy dinner all in one bite! I remember the first time I made this for a family gathering; everyone went back for seconds—some even thirds! The combination of flavors is just unbeatable, and trust me, it’s a total crowd-pleaser. So, grab your apron and let’s dive into making this deliciously comforting dish together!
Ingredients for the must try bbq bacon cheeseburger mac n cheese casserole
Gathering the right ingredients is key to achieving that mouthwatering flavor in this casserole. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 lb ground beef – I prefer using lean ground beef for a nice balance of flavor without too much grease.
- 8 oz elbow macaroni – Classic choice! You can also try cavatappi or shells for a fun twist.
- 4 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled – Crispy bacon adds that savory crunch we all love. Don’t skip this!
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese – Go for sharp cheddar for an extra punch of flavor; it’s truly the star of the show!
- 1 cup BBQ sauce – Use your favorite brand, or make your own for that personal touch. I love a sweet and smoky blend!
- 1/2 cup milk – This helps create that creamy texture we crave in mac and cheese.
- 1/2 cup sour cream – Adds a lovely tang and creaminess; feel free to swap it out for Greek yogurt if you like!
- 1 tsp garlic powder – A must for flavor; it really elevates the dish!
- 1 tsp onion powder – It pairs perfectly with the garlic powder for that savory base.
- Salt and pepper to taste – Always season to your liking; it makes a world of difference!
With these ingredients on hand, you’re well on your way to creating a comforting, flavorful meal that everyone will love. Let’s get cooking!
How to Prepare the must try bbq bacon cheeseburger mac n cheese casserole
Alright, let’s get this deliciousness going! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a warm, cheesy casserole that everyone will rave about in no time.
Step 1: Preheat and Cook
First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While that’s heating up, cook your elbow macaroni according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Drain it well, and set it aside. It’s going to soak up all those amazing flavors soon!
Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef
In a skillet over medium heat, add your ground beef. Cook it until it’s nicely browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Don’t forget to season it with the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper! The aroma will make your mouth water!
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
Now, grab a large bowl and combine your cooked macaroni, browned beef, crumbled bacon, BBQ sauce, milk, sour cream, and half of the shredded cheddar cheese. Mix everything together until it’s all well coated and combined. It’s going to look so creamy and inviting!
Step 4: Bake the Casserole
Transfer this delightful mixture into a greased baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Top it with the remaining cheddar cheese because we want that cheesy goodness to bubble up beautifully! Bake it in your preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden. You’ll know it’s ready when your kitchen is filled with that irresistible aroma!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This must try BBQ bacon cheeseburger mac n cheese casserole is not just a meal; it’s an experience! Here are a few reasons why you’ll adore making this dish:
- Quick and Easy: With just a few simple steps and common ingredients, you can whip this up in no time—even on a busy weeknight!
- Flavor Explosion: The combination of BBQ sauce, bacon, and cheese creates a harmonious blend that’s savory, smoky, and utterly delicious.
- Comfort Food at Its Best: There’s something so satisfying about digging into a warm, cheesy casserole that feels like a big hug on a plate.
- Perfect for Gatherings: Whether it’s a family dinner, potluck, or game night, this dish is sure to impress and keep everyone coming back for more.
- Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite toppings or mix-ins like jalapeños or extra veggies to make it your own!
Trust me, once you taste this casserole, you’ll be counting down the days until you can make it again!
Tips for Success
Here are some pro tips to ensure your must try BBQ bacon cheeseburger mac n cheese casserole turns out absolutely perfect!
- Extra Flavor Boost: Don’t hesitate to toss in some diced onions or jalapeños while browning the ground beef for an added kick! It enhances the overall flavor profile.
- Cheese Variations: For a twist, try using a blend of cheeses like Monterey Jack or pepper jack along with cheddar. It creates a delightful melty texture and taste!
- Make Ahead: You can prepare this casserole a day in advance. Just assemble it, cover, and refrigerate. Bake it fresh when you’re ready to serve!
- Don’t Overcook: Keep an eye on the baking time; you want that cheese to be bubbly and golden but not dried out—trust me, it makes all the difference!
With these tips, you’ll be well on your way to mastering this comforting dish, bringing smiles and full bellies to your table!
Nutritional Information
As with any recipe, the nutritional values can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use. So keep in mind that these are just estimates! Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect per serving of this must try BBQ bacon cheeseburger mac n cheese casserole:
- Calories: 500
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
- Sodium: 800mg
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 5g
- Protein: 25g
Enjoy this delicious casserole knowing it packs a hearty punch while satisfying those comfort food cravings! Remember, you can always adjust ingredients to fit your dietary needs or preferences, making this dish even more delightful for everyone at the table.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! One of the best things about this must try BBQ bacon cheeseburger mac n cheese casserole is that you can prepare it ahead of time. Just assemble the casserole as directed, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. When you’re ready to enjoy it, just pop it in the oven straight from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time if needed. It’s a great way to save time on busy days!
What can I serve with the must try bbq bacon cheeseburger mac n cheese casserole?
This casserole is so hearty and filling that it really can stand on its own, but if you want to round out the meal, I suggest serving it with a light side salad to balance the richness. A simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette works wonders! You could also serve some garlic bread or crusty rolls for soaking up all that cheesy goodness. Trust me, it’s a match made in comfort food heaven!
How should I store leftovers?
If you have any leftovers—though they’ll be hard to resist—store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll keep well for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, just reheat the casserole in the microwave or in the oven. If using the oven, cover it with foil to avoid drying out and heat it at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. You might want to add a splash of milk if it seems a bit dry; it’ll help bring back that creamy texture!
Serving Suggestions for the must try bbq bacon cheeseburger mac n cheese casserole
Now that you’ve whipped up this mouthwatering must try BBQ bacon cheeseburger mac n cheese casserole, let’s talk about what to serve alongside it! While this dish is hearty enough to stand on its own, pairing it with a few sides can elevate the meal to new heights.
I absolutely love serving it with a fresh, crisp garden salad. Just toss together some mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette to balance the richness of the casserole. You could also add some sliced cucumbers or avocado for extra texture and flavor!
If you’re in the mood for something warm, a side of garlic bread or some buttery cornbread is perfect for soaking up all that cheesy goodness. And don’t forget a refreshing drink—maybe a homemade lemonade or iced tea—to wash it all down. Trust me, this combination will have everyone raving about dinner long after the plates are cleared!
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Must Try BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Mac n Cheese Casserole Bliss
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: None
Description
A delicious blend of BBQ flavors, bacon, cheeseburger, and creamy mac n cheese in a comforting casserole.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 8 oz elbow macaroni
- 4 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup BBQ sauce
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook elbow macaroni according to package instructions, then drain.
- In a skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat; season with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- In a large bowl, combine cooked macaroni, ground beef, bacon, BBQ sauce, milk, sour cream, and half of the cheddar cheese.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish.
- Top with remaining cheddar cheese.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Notes
- For extra flavor, add diced onions or jalapeños.
- Can be made ahead and refrigerated before baking.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 500
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
Keywords: bbq bacon cheeseburger mac n cheese casserole
