Skillet Bacon Cheeseburger Casserole: The Ultimate Easy Weeknight Family Dinner Recipe
There are few things as satisfying and universally loved as a classic bacon cheeseburger. Now, imagine all those incredible flavors – savory beef, crispy bacon, rich melted cheese, and a hint of tangy sauce – transformed into a comforting, easy-to-make casserole that comes together in a single skillet. This Skillet Bacon Cheeseburger Casserole isn’t just a spin on an American classic; it’s a culinary revelation that promises a hearty, delicious meal in under 30 minutes, making it the perfect solution for busy weeknights when you crave something truly satisfying. Say goodbye to complicated recipes and hello to your new family favorite!
Why This Skillet Casserole Will Become Your Go-To Dinner
This bacon cheeseburger casserole stands out as a genuine crowd-pleaser for several compelling reasons. Firstly, its incredible ease of preparation means you can whip up this entire dish very quickly, often having it cooked and ready to serve in less than thirty minutes. This makes it an ideal choice for those hectic evenings when time is of the essence but you still want to serve a wholesome, homemade meal. Chances are, you already have most of the ingredients stocked in your pantry and refrigerator, reducing the need for an extra grocery run.
Beyond its speed, this casserole is wonderfully versatile. It holds up beautifully in the refrigerator for a few days, making it excellent for meal prepping or enjoying leftovers. Simply reheat it for another round of deliciousness! Its comforting blend of macaroni, seasoned beef, and gooey cheese ensures it’s a hit with both kids and adults, rivaling the popularity of other beloved comfort food casseroles like the John Wayne Casserole and Shepherd’s Pie. The fact that it all cooks in one large skillet further simplifies cleanup, making it a dream for busy home cooks.
Key Ingredients for Your Bacon Cheeseburger Casserole
Creating this irresistible casserole requires a few simple, common ingredients that come together to form a symphony of flavors. Below, we’ll dive into the essential components and offer some helpful tips for each. For exact measurements and detailed instructions, remember to check out the printable recipe card located at the end of this post.
- GROUND BEEF – For the best flavor and texture, we recommend using lean ground beef. Leaner cuts mean less fat to drain, allowing more of the delicious beefy flavor to remain in the skillet. However, this recipe is incredibly adaptable! Feel free to substitute with ground chicken, turkey, or even ground pork if you prefer, or if you’re looking for a slightly different nutritional profile. Just ensure any substitute is fully cooked through.
- CHEESE – The cheese is undeniably a star in any cheeseburger-inspired dish! We highly recommend grating your own mozzarella and cheddar cheese directly from blocks. Freshly shredded cheese melts more smoothly and offers a creamier consistency because it lacks the anti-caking additives found in many store-bought pre-shredded varieties, which can sometimes result in a grainy texture when melted. You can use a blend of sharp or mild cheddar and low-moisture, part-skim mozzarella for optimal melt and flavor.
- ELBOW MACARONI – This classic pasta shape is perfect for casseroles, as its small, curved shape captures the sauce and ground beef wonderfully. Other small pasta shapes like ditalini, small shells, or ditalini could also work in a pinch, but elbow macaroni truly gives it that classic, comforting feel.
- BACON – What’s a bacon cheeseburger without bacon? Crispy bacon bits add a crucial layer of smoky, salty flavor and a delightful texture contrast.
- BEEF BROTH, WORCESTERSHIRE SAUCE, & KETCHUP – These ingredients form the savory, slightly tangy sauce that coats every bite of your casserole. Beef broth provides a rich base, Worcestershire sauce adds a deep umami kick, and ketchup brings in that signature sweet and tangy cheeseburger flavor.
- CORNSTARCH – Used as a thickening agent, cornstarch helps achieve the perfect consistency for our sauce, ensuring it clings beautifully to the pasta and beef.
- OPTIONAL ADDITIONS – Consider pantry staples like onion powder, garlic powder, black pepper, and a pinch of salt to enhance the overall seasoning of your beef mixture.
How to Make Skillet Bacon Cheeseburger Casserole
These step-by-step photos and detailed instructions are here to help you visualize how to make this delicious recipe. For a convenient printable version of this recipe, complete with precise measurements and instructions, simply jump to the recipe card at the bottom of the page.
- Cook the Bacon: Start by cooking your bacon until it’s perfectly crispy. While you can cook it in a skillet, we often prefer baking it on a sheet pan in the oven for even crispiness and less mess. Once cooked, drain the bacon on paper towels to remove excess grease, then chop or crumble it into small pieces. Set these flavorful bits aside for later.
- Prepare the Macaroni: Follow the package directions to cook your elbow macaroni al dente. Cooking it slightly less than fully done will prevent it from getting mushy when it finishes cooking in the sauce. Once cooked, drain thoroughly and set aside.
- Brown the Beef: While your macaroni is cooking, brown the lean ground beef in a large, oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Break it apart with a spoon as it cooks until it’s fully browned and no longer pink. If your beef releases a lot of fat, you can drain some of it off. We often choose lean beef to minimize fat, as a little bit of the beef’s natural juices can enhance the overall flavor of the casserole.
- Craft the Flavorful Sauce Base: In a small bowl or measuring jug, combine the beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and ketchup. In a separate very small bowl, add the cornstarch and mix in a tablespoon or two of the beef broth mixture to create a slurry. Stir this slurry until it’s smooth and lump-free, then add it to the rest of the broth mixture. This technique is key to preventing the cornstarch from clumping when added to hot liquids, ensuring a smooth, thickened sauce.
- Combine Ingredients in the Skillet: Once the beef is browned, add the cooked and drained macaroni to the skillet with the beef. Pour in the prepared beef broth mixture, along with the reserved crispy bacon pieces. Stir everything together thoroughly, ensuring the beef, pasta, bacon, and sauce are evenly combined.
- Thicken the Sauce: Continue cooking the mixture over medium heat, stirring occasionally. The sauce will begin to bubble and thicken as the cornstarch activates. Keep an eye on the consistency; if it becomes too thick for your liking, you can thin it out with a little extra beef broth until it reaches your desired texture.
- Melt the Cheese: Once the sauce has thickened, generously sprinkle the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses over the top of the skillet cheeseburger mixture. Cover the skillet with a lid (or foil if your skillet doesn’t have one) and reduce the heat to very low. Allow the cheese to melt undisturbed for about 2-3 minutes, or until it’s perfectly gooey and bubbling.
- Serve Hot: Remove from heat and let it rest for a minute before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley or green onions if desired, and get ready to enjoy a wonderfully satisfying meal!
Frequently Asked Questions & Expert Tips
Our readers have had great success personalizing this casserole! You can boost the flavor profile by adding seasonings like garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, or a dedicated hamburger seasoning blend when browning the beef. For a textural and aromatic kick, consider sautéing finely diced onions, green or red bell peppers, or fresh minced garlic with the ground beef. If you enjoy a bit of heat, red pepper flakes or finely diced jalapeños would make a fantastic addition, stirring them in with the sauce mixture.
Absolutely! To make this bacon cheeseburger casserole gluten-free, simply substitute regular elbow macaroni with your favorite gluten-free pasta. Additionally, always double-check that your beef broth and Worcestershire sauce are certified gluten-free, as some brands may contain hidden gluten ingredients. For those needing a dairy-free option, you can easily use a shredded vegan cheese substitute. Many high-quality dairy-free cheese alternatives melt surprisingly well and work just as effectively in this recipe, allowing everyone to enjoy this comforting dish!
This casserole stores very well! You can transfer any cooled leftovers into an airtight container and keep it in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. When reheating, especially in the microwave or on the stovetop, the pasta and sauce can sometimes dry out. To restore moisture and creaminess, add a tablespoon or two of water or extra beef broth to the dish before reheating. Cover it loosely and heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally. For best results, reheat individual portions.
Yes, you can certainly prepare parts of this casserole in advance to make dinner even quicker. You can cook and chop the bacon a day or two before. You can also brown the ground beef and refrigerate it. The sauce mixture (broth, Worcestershire, ketchup, cornstarch) can also be pre-mixed and stored in the fridge. When you’re ready to cook, simply boil the pasta, combine everything in the skillet, and proceed with the thickening and cheese-melting steps. This partial prep can save you significant time on a busy weeknight.
A large, heavy-bottomed skillet is ideal for this recipe, especially one that retains heat well. A cast iron skillet is an excellent choice as it provides even heat distribution and can go from stovetop to oven if you prefer to melt your cheese under a broiler (though covering on the stovetop works perfectly!). If you don’t have cast iron, any large non-stick or stainless steel skillet with deep sides will work effectively.
Delicious Serving Suggestions
This bacon cheeseburger pasta is a meal in itself, but it pairs wonderfully with a variety of simple side dishes to create a more complete and balanced dinner. Here are some ideas to complement its rich, savory flavors:
- Fresh Green Salad: A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the hearty casserole.
- Steamed Vegetables: Simple steamed green beans, broccoli, or asparagus add freshness and nutrients without overpowering the main dish. Our Roasted Asparagus recipe would be a great choice!
- Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn, whether on the cob or as a side dish of kernels, adds a touch of sweetness and classic American BBQ flavor.
- Garlic Bread or Dinner Rolls: Perfect for soaking up any extra sauce, warm garlic bread or soft dinner rolls are always a welcome addition.
- Pickle Spears: A side of dill pickle spears can bring an extra tangy, savory crunch that echoes the flavors of a cheeseburger.
Bacon cheeseburger pasta is a quick, easy, and satisfying meal that utilizes ingredients you likely already have on hand. It’s not only budget-friendly and filling but also delivers big, comforting flavors that make it a perfect weeknight dinner solution for the entire family.
More Family-Friendly Dinner Recipes to Explore
If you loved this easy skillet meal, you’re in luck! We have plenty of other delicious and simple dinner recipes that are perfect for busy weeknights and family gatherings. From slow-cooked roasts to comforting casseroles, there’s something for everyone:
- Crockpot Roast Beef – Effortless and tender, a classic comfort meal.
- Oven Chili Dogs – A fun, family-friendly take on a beloved fast-food favorite.
- Southwest Ground Beef Casserole – A flavorful dish with a Tex-Mex twist.
- One Pan Beef Stroganoff – Quick, easy, and satisfying, minimizing cleanup.
- Crockpot Beef Burgundy – A sophisticated meal made simple with your slow cooker.
- BBQ Chicken Tater Tot Skillet – A cheesy, crispy, and flavorful skillet creation.
- One Pot Chili Pasta – All the goodness of chili combined with pasta in one easy pot.
- See all my Macaroni and Cheese recipes here – A collection of creamy, cheesy pasta delights.
- This is my favorite meatloaf recipe in the world – A tried-and-true classic that’s always a hit.
- Crockpot John Wayne Casserole – A hearty and flavorful casserole perfect for feeding a crowd.
- Chicken Stuffing Casserole – The ultimate comfort food combining chicken and savory stuffing.
- 7 Layer Casserole – A classic, easy-to-assemble layered dish.
- Dorito Casserole – A fun, crunchy, and cheesy casserole with a unique twist.
- Ground Beef Stroganoff – A creamy, savory, and quick version of a beloved dish.
I absolutely love spending time in the kitchen, experimenting with new flavors and perfecting classic dishes, and sharing all my culinary experiences with you! Remembering to come back each day to discover new recipes can be tough, which is why I offer a convenient newsletter delivered straight to your inbox every time a new recipe posts. Simply subscribe today and start receiving your free daily recipes, making it easier than ever to find your next favorite meal!
Bacon Cheeseburger Casserole
IMPORTANT – There are often Frequently Asked Questions within the blog post that you may find helpful. Simply scroll back up to read them!
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Ingredients
- 8 oz elbow macaroni pasta
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 6 strips bacon cooked until crispy and cut into small pieces
- 1 ½ cup beef broth
- ½ teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 3 tablespoons ketchup
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch may use less, adjust to desired thickness
- 4 ounces shredded cheddar cheese (about 1 cup, freshly grated for best melt)
- 2 ounces shredded mozzarella cheese (about 1/2 cup, freshly grated for best melt)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Things You’ll Need
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Large skillet (preferably cast iron or a heavy-bottomed pan)
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Measuring cups and spoons
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Cheese grater (if grating your own cheese)
Before You Begin
- For optimal flavor and texture, we strongly recommend grating your own cheddar and mozzarella cheese from blocks. Pre-shredded cheeses often contain anti-caking agents that can hinder smooth melting.
- This casserole is excellent for meal prep! Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. When reheating, add a splash of water or extra beef broth to moisten and revive the sauce.
- Don’t be afraid to adjust the seasoning to your preference! A little garlic powder or onion powder can really make the ground beef pop.
Instructions
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Cook the bacon first until it’s wonderfully crispy. While you can use a skillet, baking on a sheet pan in the oven often yields more uniform crispiness. Drain the cooked bacon on paper towels to remove excess grease, then chop or crumble it into small, bite-sized pieces and set aside.
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Cook your elbow macaroni according to the package directions until al dente. This ensures the pasta holds up well when further cooked in the casserole sauce. Drain the macaroni thoroughly once cooked.
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While the macaroni is cooking, brown the lean ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Break the beef into crumbles as it cooks until it is fully cooked through and no longer pink. If there’s a significant amount of fat or liquid remaining after cooking, you may choose to drain some of it off. We prefer to use lean beef and retain a little of the flavorful juices. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
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In a small bowl or measuring jug, combine the beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and ketchup. In a separate tiny bowl, place the cornstarch and add a tablespoon or two of the broth mixture. Stir this well to create a smooth slurry – this crucial step prevents the cornstarch from clumping when it’s added to the warmer ingredients. Then, pour the cornstarch slurry into the rest of the broth mixture and stir again until fully combined.
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Add the cooked and drained pasta to the skillet with the browned beef. Pour in the prepared beef broth mixture, along with the crispy bacon pieces. Stir everything very well to ensure the beef, pasta, bacon, and the developing sauce are evenly distributed throughout the skillet.
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Return the skillet to medium heat and cook, stirring occasionally, until the sauce begins to bubble and visibly thicken. The cornstarch will activate, transforming the liquid into a luscious, clinging sauce. If you find the sauce becomes too thick for your preference, you can thin it out a little with an additional splash of beef broth.
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Once the sauce has reached your desired consistency, evenly sprinkle the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses over the entire top of the skillet cheeseburger mixture.
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Cover the skillet with a lid (or foil if your skillet does not have one) and reduce the heat to very low. Allow the casserole to cook for about 2-3 minutes, or until all the cheese has beautifully melted into a gooey, irresistible layer.
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Remove from heat and serve hot. Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or green onions for a pop of color and freshness, if desired. Enjoy your ultimate skillet bacon cheeseburger casserole!
Nutrition
The recipes on this blog are tested with a conventional gas oven and gas stovetop. It’s important to note that some ovens, especially as they age, can cook and bake inconsistently. Using an inexpensive oven thermometer can assure you that your oven is truly heating to the proper temperature. If you use a toaster oven or countertop oven, please keep in mind that they may not distribute heat the same as a conventional full sized oven and you may need to adjust your cooking/baking times. In the case of recipes made with a pressure cooker, air fryer, slow cooker, or other appliance, a link to the appliances we use is listed within each respective recipe. For baking recipes where measurements are given by weight, please note that results may not be the same if cups are used instead, and we can’t guarantee success with that method.
This post originally appeared here on September 4, 2018, and has since been extensively updated with fresh content, enhanced details, and new photos to bring you the best possible cooking experience.