BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Casserole Recipe – A Hearty, Flavor-Packed Meal

Looking for a comforting, filling, and flavorful dinner that combines the best of BBQ, bacon, and cheeseburgers in one dish? Look no further than this BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Casserole! This easy-to-make casserole features all the classic cheeseburger flavors, including ground beef, crispy bacon, melty cheese, and tangy BBQ sauce, all layered into one perfect, hearty dish. It’s sure to be a family favorite and a crowd-pleaser at your next gathering.

Perfect for busy weeknights or casual dinners with friends and family, this casserole is a must-try for burger lovers. Let’s dive into the recipe and get started on this tasty meal!

Why You’ll Love BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Casserole

• Packed with Flavor: The combination of savory ground beef, crispy bacon, melty cheese, and tangy BBQ sauce is irresistible.
• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and just a few steps, you’ll have a filling meal ready in no time.
• Customizable: You can adjust the ingredients to suit your tastes by adding extra vegetables, using different types of cheese, or adding a little extra spice.
• Comforting and Filling: This casserole is hearty and perfect for feeding a hungry family or group of friends.
• One-Pan Meal: Everything is cooked in one pan, making cleanup a breeze.

Ingredients

for BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Casserole

For the Casserole:

• 1 lb ground beef – Use lean ground beef for a healthier option or a higher-fat variety for more flavor.
• 4 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled – Crispy bacon adds a smoky crunch to the casserole.
• 1/2 cup diced onion – For a bit of sweetness and savory flavor.
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese – The classic cheese for a cheeseburger casserole.
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese – For a creamy, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
• 1 cup BBQ sauce – Choose your favorite BBQ sauce for the right amount of sweetness and tang.
• 1 cup frozen corn kernels – Optional, but adds a nice texture and flavor to the casserole.
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder – For extra flavor.
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder – Enhances the savory flavor.
• Salt and pepper, to taste – For seasoning.

For the Topping:

• 2 cups tater tots – These crispy tots add a fun twist to the casserole and a crispy top layer.
• Extra shredded cheese (optional) – For an extra cheesy topping, you can add a little more cheddar or mozzarella on top of the tater tots. Homemade Samoas Girl Scout Cookies

How to Make BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Casserole

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish with cooking spray or butter.

Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef

1. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Break the meat apart as it cooks to ensure it’s evenly crumbled.
2. Add the diced onion to the skillet with the ground beef and cook for another 2-3 minutes, until the onion becomes soft and translucent.
3. Season the mixture with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper to taste. Stir everything together to combine.

Step 3: Add the BBQ Sauce and Bacon

1. Stir in the BBQ sauce and crumbled bacon to the beef mixture. Mix everything together until it’s well coated with the BBQ sauce.
2. If you’re using frozen corn kernels, add them to the skillet and stir to combine. Cook for another 2-3 minutes to ensure everything is heated through.

Step 4: Layer the Casserole

1. Transfer the beef and BBQ mixture into the prepared casserole dish and spread it out evenly.
2. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese and shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the beef mixture.

Step 5: Add the Tater Tots

1. Arrange the tater tots in a single layer over the top of the casserole, covering the entire surface. If desired, sprinkle with extra cheese for an extra cheesy top.

Step 6: Bake the Casserole

1. Bake the casserole in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the tater tots are golden brown and crispy, and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
2. If you added extra cheese, bake for an additional 5 minutes to get the cheese fully melted and bubbly.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

1. Once the casserole is done, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Potsticker Soup with Mushrooms Bok Choy
2. Serve hot and enjoy the delicious combination of BBQ, bacon, and cheeseburger flavors in every bite!

Tips for the Perfect BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Casserole

• Customize Your Toppings: Add your favorite burger toppings like pickles, sautéed mushrooms, or jalapeños for extra flavor and variety.
• Cheese Options: Experiment with different cheese blends such as Colby Jack, Monterey Jack, or American cheese to adjust the flavor profile of your casserole.
• Make It Spicy: If you like a little heat, add some chopped jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to the beef mixture.
• Meal Prep: You can prepare the casserole in advance by assembling it the night before and refrigerating it. When ready to bake, simply add the tater tots on top and bake as usual.
• Leftovers: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, bake in the oven or microwave until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I Make This Casserole Ahead of Time?

Yes, this casserole can be assembled a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, add the tater tots and bake as instructed.

Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Ground Beef?

Yes, you can substitute ground turkey for ground beef if you prefer a lighter option. The flavor will still be delicious with the BBQ sauce and bacon.

Can I Freeze BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Casserole?

Yes, you can freeze this casserole before baking it. After assembling the casserole, cover it tightly with foil and freeze for up to 3 months. To bake, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and then cook as directed.

Why You Should Try BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Casserole

If you’re craving a hearty, comforting meal with all the flavors of a classic cheeseburger, this BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Casserole is your answer. With its rich BBQ sauce, crispy bacon, melted cheese, and crispy tater tot topping, it’s an easy and satisfying dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or gatherings. Plus, it’s customizable to suit your preferences, whether you want extra cheese, spicy heat, or additional veggies. This casserole is sure to become a family favorite!