Introduction:
BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Casserole combines the savory flavors of a classic cheeseburger with the smoky richness of bacon and the tang of BBQ sauce. This comfort food dish is easy to prepare, packed with flavors, and makes for a perfect meal for family dinners, gatherings, or BBQ-themed parties.
Ingredients:
1 lb ground beef
1/2 lb bacon, chopped
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup BBQ sauce
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1 cup frozen tater tots (optional)
1/4 cup ketchup
1 tbsp mustard
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 tsp paprika (optional)
2 tbsp olive oil (for greasing)
Instructions:
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a large skillet, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon and drain excess fat.
In the same skillet, cook the ground beef, onion, and garlic until the beef is browned. Drain any excess fat.
Stir in BBQ sauce, ketchup, mustard, salt, and pepper. Simmer for about 5 minutes.
Grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish with olive oil.
Layer the beef mixture in the casserole dish, then top with the crispy bacon, followed by a sprinkle of cheddar and mozzarella cheeses.
If using tater tots, arrange them on top of the casserole. Alternatively, you can skip them and add more cheese on top.
Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Description:
This BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Casserole brings together the beloved flavors of a cheeseburger in an easy-to-make casserole. The bacon adds a crispy, smoky element, while the BBQ sauce gives the dish a tangy sweetness. Tater tots, when used, bring a delightful texture to the casserole. The combination of cheddar and mozzarella cheeses guarantees a gooey, melty finish that’s sure to satisfy every craving.
Tips:
For extra crunch: Top with crushed potato chips or French fried onions before baking.
Make it spicy: Add jalapeños or hot sauce to the beef mixture for some heat.
Vegetarian option: Use plant-based ground beef or crumbled veggie patties as a substitute for meat.
Make ahead: Prepare the casserole up to a day ahead and refrigerate it. Bake it just before serving.
Variations:
Bacon Cheeseburger: Keep it simple with just ground beef, bacon, and cheese, omitting the tater tots.
BBQ Chicken: Swap the ground beef for shredded rotisserie chicken for a lighter variation.
Cheeseburger Fries: Use French fries instead of tater tots for a different twist.
Corrections:
Ensure to drain the excess grease from both the bacon and ground beef to avoid the casserole becoming too greasy.
Adjust the seasoning to your preference, particularly when adding ketchup, mustard, or BBQ sauce, as each brand may have different levels of sweetness or tanginess.
Enjoy!
Serve the BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Casserole hot, and enjoy a comforting, hearty meal that the whole family will love. Perfect with a side of fresh salad or crispy fries!