Description
This BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Mac and Cheese Casserole is a rich, creamy, and smoky comfort dish featuring tender pasta, melted cheddar, BBQ-flavored ground beef, and crispy bacon, all baked to golden perfection with a buttery crunch on top.
Ingredients
Scale
- 6 slices cooked beef or turkey bacon, crumbled
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup crushed Ritz crackers or panko breadcrumbs
- 2 tbsp melted butter
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Boil macaroni according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the Cheese Sauce: Melt butter in a saucepan, whisk in flour, and cook for 1 minute. Slowly add milk and heavy cream, stirring until thickened. Add cheeses, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until smooth.
- Cook the Beef Mixture: In a skillet, cook ground beef and onions until browned. Drain excess grease. Add garlic, BBQ sauce, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Simmer for 2-3 minutes.
- Assemble the Casserole: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread half of the mac and cheese in the dish, layer with the cheeseburger mixture, and top with the remaining mac and cheese.
- Add Toppings & Bake: Sprinkle with bacon, extra cheddar, and mozzarella. Mix crushed crackers or panko with melted butter and sprinkle on top. Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden and bubbly.
- Serve & Enjoy: Let rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with parsley or pickles for extra flavor.
Notes
- Use freshly grated cheese for the best melt.
- You can swap ground beef for turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
- Add jalapeños for a spicy kick.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American