BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Mac ‘n’ Cheese Casserole: A Comfort Food Delight

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Difficulty

Easy

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Prep Time

15 mins

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Cook Time

30 mins

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Total Time

45 mins

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Servings

This BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Mac ‘n’ Cheese Casserole is the ultimate comfort food mash-up, packed with smoky bacon, savory ground beef, gooey cheddar cheese, and a rich, tangy barbecue sauce. Combining the bold flavors of a bacon cheeseburger with the creamy indulgence of mac and cheese, this casserole is perfect for family dinners, potlucks, and cozy nights in. The crispy baked topping complements the cheesy pasta, making every bite irresistibly delicious.

If you love the classic flavors of a cheeseburger but crave a hearty, oven-baked dish, this recipe is for you. It’s a fantastic way to switch up your weeknight dinner routine while still enjoying the nostalgic taste of your favorite grilled meal. Best of all, it’s easy to make, takes less than an hour, and is sure to become a go-to comfort food classic in your kitchen.

Quick Recipe Highlights

Flavor Profile: This casserole balances smoky, savory, and tangy notes, with crispy bacon enhancing the juicy ground beef and sharp cheddar.
Texture: The creamy mac and cheese contrasts beautifully with the crispy baked top and crunchy bacon pieces.
Aroma: A mouthwatering blend of barbecue sauce, sizzling bacon, melty cheese, and toasted breadcrumbs.
Visual Appeal: Golden-brown topping, melted cheese pulling when served, and bits of crispy bacon make this dish a feast for the eyes.
Skill Level Needed: Beginner-friendly, requiring basic sautéing, boiling, and baking techniques.
Special Equipment: You’ll need a large skillet, baking dish, cheese grater, and pot for boiling pasta.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Mac ‘n’ Cheese Casserole is a meal the whole family will love. The combination of smoky, cheesy, and tangy flavors is incredibly satisfying, delivering a true comfort food experience. Not only does it taste amazing, but it’s also easy to prepare, making it great for busy weeknights when you want a hearty homemade meal without the hassle.

Another bonus is that this dish is highly customizable. Whether you like it extra cheesy, prefer a spicier kick, or want to swap the ground beef for turkey, you can easily make it your own. Leftovers reheat beautifully, making it perfect for meal prepping or enjoying the next day. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for gatherings, too!

The Recipe

BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Mac ‘n’ Cheese Casserole

Serves: 6

Prep Time: 15 mins

Cook Time: 30 mins

Total Time: 45 mins

Kitchen Equipment Needed

Large skillet
Medium pot
Baking dish (9×13-inch recommended)
Cheese grater
Whisk

Ingredients

2 cups elbow macaroni
1 pound ground beef
6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
1 medium onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup whole milk
1 cup heavy cream
½ cup barbecue sauce
2 tablespoons butter
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
1 cup breadcrumbs
2 tablespoons chopped parsley (optional, for garnish)

Directions

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Cook macaroni according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
In a large skillet, cook the bacon until crispy. Remove and chop into pieces.
In the same skillet, cook the ground beef and onion over medium heat until beef is browned and onions are soft. Drain excess fat, then stir in garlic, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
In a separate pot, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute. Slowly add milk and heavy cream, whisking constantly until smooth.
Add shredded cheddar cheese, stirring until melted and incorporated into the sauce.
Stir barbecue sauce and cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce, then add the beef mixture and half of the crumbled bacon. Mix well.
Pour everything into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle breadcrumbs and remaining bacon over the top.
Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the top is golden brown and crispy.
Remove from oven, garnish with chopped parsley if desired, and serve warm.