Bacon Cheeseburger Casserole

Ingredients

For the Casserole:

• 1 lb (450g) ground beef
• 6–8 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes (drained)
• 2 tbsp ketchup
• 1 tbsp yellow mustard
• ½ tsp smoked paprika (optional)
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 2 cups cooked pasta (e.g., elbow macaroni or penne)
• 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
• ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese

For the Topping:

• ½ cup breadcrumbs
• 2 tbsp melted butter
• 2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

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Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish or similar-sized baking dish.

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Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef

1. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain excess grease if needed.
2. Add the diced onion and cook for 2–3 minutes, until softened.
3. Stir in the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.

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Step 3: Mix the Flavorings

1. Add the diced tomatoes, ketchup, mustard, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper to the skillet.
2. Cook for 2–3 minutes, stirring to combine, until heated through.
3. Stir in the cooked bacon and pasta, mixing well.

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Step 4: Assemble the Casserole

1. Transfer the beef mixture to the prepared casserole dish.
2. Sprinkle the cheddar and mozzarella cheeses evenly over the top.

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Step 5: Prepare the Topping

1. In a small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs, melted butter, and Parmesan cheese.
2. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture over the cheese layer.

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Step 6: Bake the Casserole

1. Bake in the preheated oven for 15–20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the topping is golden brown.

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Step 7: Serve

1. Let the casserole cool for 5 minutes before serving.
2. Serve warm, garnished with chopped parsley or pickles if desired.

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Tips for Success

• Customizable Toppings: Add diced pickles, jalapeños, or tomatoes for a true cheeseburger vibe.
• Low-Carb Option: Replace pasta with cooked cauliflower florets.
• Make Ahead: Prepare the casserole up to the baking step, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Bake just before serving.

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Enjoy this Bacon Cheeseburger Casserole, a deliciously cheesy and savory twist on a classic favorite! 🍔🥓🧀