Bacon Cheeseburger Noodle Bake Recipe
Introduction
Craving a comforting, family-friendly meal that combines all the flavors of a classic bacon cheeseburger? Look no further than this Bacon Cheeseburger Noodle Bake! This dish brings together the savory goodness of ground beef, crispy bacon, creamy cheeses, and tender noodles in a single, satisfying casserole. Perfect for busy weeknights or weekend gatherings, this recipe will quickly become a household favorite. Let’s dive into this indulgent delight!
Ingredients
- 8 oz elbow macaroni 🍝
- 1 lb ground beef 🍖
- 1/2 cup onion, chopped 🧅
- 4 strips bacon, cooked and crumbled 🥓
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese 🧀
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese 🧀
- 1/2 cup ketchup 🍅
- 1 tbsp mustard 🌟
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder 🧄
- 1/4 tsp onion powder 🧂
- 1/2 cup milk 🥛
- Salt and pepper to taste 🧂
Preparation
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Bacon
In a skillet, cook the bacon strips until crispy. Remove and place on a paper towel to cool. Once cooled, crumble into small pieces.
Step 3: Brown the Beef
In the same skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned and fully cooked. Drain excess fat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until soft and translucent.
Step 4: Combine Ingredients
Reduce heat to low. Stir in ketchup, mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well. Add the milk and stir until a creamy consistency is achieved.
Step 5: Assemble the Bake
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked macaroni, beef mixture, and half of the cheddar and mozzarella cheeses. Transfer to a greased baking dish.
Step 6: Top and Bake
Sprinkle the remaining cheeses and crumbled bacon over the top. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Variations
- Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicy twist.
- Healthier Option: Substitute ground turkey for ground beef and use whole wheat pasta.
- Vegetarian: Replace ground beef with plant-based crumbles and omit the bacon.
- Extra Veggies: Toss in diced bell peppers or mushrooms for added nutrition.
Cooking Notes
- Bacon Hack: Use pre-cooked bacon to save time.
- Cheese Choices: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses like Monterey Jack or gouda.
- Consistency Check: If the bake seems dry, drizzle a bit more milk over the dish before baking.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables to balance the richness.
- Pair with garlic bread for an extra indulgent meal.
- A dollop of sour cream on top can add a creamy tang.
Tips
- Cook the macaroni just until al dente; it will continue to cook in the oven.
- Mix cheeses for a more complex flavor.
- Make ahead: Assemble the dish and refrigerate. Bake when ready to serve.
Timing Details
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cooking Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: ~450
- Protein: ~22g
- Sodium: ~680mg
FAQs
Q: Can I freeze this dish?
A: Absolutely! Assemble the bake without cooking, cover tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight before baking.
Q: Can I use another type of pasta?
A: Yes! Penne, rotini, or shells work wonderfully in this recipe.
Q: How can I make this dish gluten-free?
A: Use gluten-free pasta and ensure your other ingredients are certified gluten-free.
Bacon Cheeseburger Noodle Bake Recipe
- Total Time: 45 minutes
Description
Craving a comforting, family-friendly meal that combines all the flavors of a classic bacon cheeseburger? Look no further than this Bacon Cheeseburger Noodle Bake! This dish brings together the savory goodness of ground beef, crispy bacon, creamy cheeses, and tender noodles in a single, satisfying casserole. Perfect for busy weeknights or weekend gatherings, this recipe will quickly become a household favorite. Let’s dive into this indulgent delight!
Ingredients
- 8 oz elbow macaroni 🍝
- 1 lb ground beef 🍖
- 1/2 cup onion, chopped 🧅
- 4 strips bacon, cooked and crumbled 🥓
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese 🧀
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese 🧀
- 1/2 cup ketchup 🍅
- 1 tbsp mustard 🌟
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder 🧄
- 1/4 tsp onion powder 🧂
- 1/2 cup milk 🥛
- Salt and pepper to taste 🧂
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Bacon
In a skillet, cook the bacon strips until crispy. Remove and place on a paper towel to cool. Once cooled, crumble into small pieces.
Step 3: Brown the Beef
In the same skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned and fully cooked. Drain excess fat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until soft and translucent.
Step 4: Combine Ingredients
Reduce heat to low. Stir in ketchup, mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well. Add the milk and stir until a creamy consistency is achieved.
Step 5: Assemble the Bake
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked macaroni, beef mixture, and half of the cheddar and mozzarella cheeses. Transfer to a greased baking dish.
Step 6: Top and Bake
Sprinkle the remaining cheeses and crumbled bacon over the top. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Notes
- Bacon Hack: Use pre-cooked bacon to save time.
- Cheese Choices: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses like Monterey Jack or gouda.
- Consistency Check: If the bake seems dry, drizzle a bit more milk over the dish before baking.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
Conclusion
The Bacon Cheeseburger Noodle Bake is a versatile and comforting dish that delivers all the flavors of a classic cheeseburger in a cheesy, baked pasta form. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting a casual dinner party, this dish promises to impress. With endless customization options and simple steps, this recipe is a keeper for every occasion. Dig in and enjoy the perfect blend of cheesy, beefy, bacon-y goodness!