Craving the savory flavors of a bacon cheeseburger but want the comfort of a hearty casserole? Enter the Bacon Cheeseburger Noodle Bake, a dish that combines the best of both worlds! With layers of juicy ground beef, crispy bacon, melted cheese, and tender pasta, this bake is the perfect crowd-pleaser for family dinners or potlucks. Easy to make and packed with flavor, this recipe will quickly become a household favorite.
Ingredients for Bacon Cheeseburger Noodle Bake
For the Casserole
- 12 ounces egg noodles
- 1 pound ground beef
- 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (15 ounces) diced tomatoes, drained
- 1 can (10.5 ounces) condensed cheddar cheese soup
- ½ cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 tablespoon ketchup
- 1 teaspoon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional Garnishes
- Chopped pickles
- Sliced green onions
- Extra bacon bits
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat and Prep
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and set aside.
2. Cook the Noodles
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the egg noodles according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. Prepare the Meat Mixture
In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned and fully cooked. Drain excess fat, then add the diced onion and garlic. Sauté for 2–3 minutes until softened. Stir in the diced tomatoes, ketchup, mustard, salt, and pepper. Let it simmer for 5 minutes.
4. Combine the Sauce
In a separate bowl, mix the cheddar cheese soup and sour cream. Add this mixture to the skillet with the beef, stirring until well combined.
5. Assemble the Casserole
In the prepared baking dish, layer the cooked noodles. Pour the beef mixture over the noodles and spread evenly. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese on top, followed by the crumbled bacon.
6. Bake to Perfection
Bake the casserole for 20–25 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. For a golden top, broil for an additional 2–3 minutes, keeping a close eye on it.
7. Garnish and Serve
Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped pickles or green onions for extra flavor.
Cooking Tips and Tricks
- Cheese Options: Swap out the cheddar and mozzarella for your favorite cheeses like Monterey Jack or pepper jack for a spicy kick.
- Make It Ahead: Assemble the casserole a day in advance and refrigerate. Bake just before serving for a quick and easy meal.
- Bacon Shortcut: Use pre-cooked bacon bits if you’re short on time, but freshly cooked bacon delivers the best flavor.
- Add Veggies: For added nutrition, mix in diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach with the ground beef.
Variations to Try
1. Low-Carb Version
Substitute the egg noodles with zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash. Ensure your tomato and cheese soup options are low in carbs for a keto-friendly twist.
2. Spicy Cheeseburger Bake
Add diced jalapeños, a splash of hot sauce, or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
3. Gluten-Free Option
Use gluten-free pasta and check that your cheese soup is gluten-free to make this dish suitable for those with dietary restrictions.
4. Turkey or Chicken Substitute
Replace the ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option that’s just as delicious.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I freeze Bacon Cheeseburger Noodle Bake?
Yes, this dish freezes well. Assemble the casserole, but don’t bake it. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake as directed.
2. How do I reheat leftovers?
Reheat individual portions in the microwave or cover the baking dish with foil and warm in a 350°F oven until heated through.
3. Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! Short pasta shapes like penne, rotini, or shells work wonderfully in this recipe.
4. What side dishes go well with this casserole?
Pair this dish with a fresh green salad, roasted vegetables, or garlic bread for a complete meal.
Why You’ll Love Bacon Cheeseburger Noodle Bake
This casserole is a delightful mashup of two classic comfort foods: the beloved cheeseburger and hearty pasta bake. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, potlucks, or when you’re simply craving something indulgent. The combination of savory beef, smoky bacon, gooey cheese, and tender noodles ensures every bite is pure comfort.
So, grab your apron and try this Bacon Cheeseburger Noodle Bake tonight—it’s bound to become a family favorite in no time!
