BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Mac N Cheese Casserole

How to Make BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Mac N Cheese Casserole

This recipe comes together in a few simple steps, and once everything is mixed, the oven does the final cozy magic.

Step 1: Prepare the Baking Dish

Preheat your oven to 375°F or 190°C. Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish so the cheesy macaroni does not stick.

Step 2: Cook the Macaroni

Cook the elbow macaroni according to the package directions until just tender. Drain and set aside.

Try not to overcook the pasta, because it will continue to soften a little while baking.

Step 3: Brown the Beef and Onion

In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef with the diced onion until the beef is browned and the onion is softened. Drain any excess grease.

Stir in the garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. This simple seasoning keeps the beef flavorful without overpowering the BBQ sauce.

Step 4: Make the Cheese Sauce

In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly. This helps remove the raw flour taste and creates the base for a creamy sauce.

Slowly whisk in the milk. Continue cooking until the mixture is slightly thickened.

Stir in 1 1/2 cups cheddar cheese and the mozzarella cheese until melted and smooth. This is where things start looking dangerously good!

Step 5: Combine Everything

Add the cooked macaroni, beef mixture, BBQ sauce, and half of the crumbled bacon to the cheese sauce. Stir until everything is well coated and combined.

The sauce should cling to the pasta, and the beef and bacon should be tucked throughout every spoonful.

Step 6: Bake Until Bubbly

Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup cheddar cheese over the top, then add the remaining bacon.

Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the casserole is hot, bubbly, and golden on top.

Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. This helps the casserole set slightly, making it easier to scoop.

What to Serve with BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Mac N Cheese Casserole

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