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Must-Try BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Mac ‘n’ Cheese Casserole

BBQ Bacon Mac and Cheese Casserole is the ultimate comfort food, combining smoky BBQ flavors, crispy bacon, creamy cheese, and hearty pasta. Perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or a cozy night in, this dish is a game-changer for mac and cheese lovers.

  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups elbow macaroni (or preferred pasta)
  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 6 slices thick-cut bacon, cooked and crumbled
  • 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 ½ cups whole milk
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • ¼ cup BBQ sauce (Kansas City or Texas-style recommended)
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • ½ tsp garlic powder
  • ½ tsp onion powder
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ¼ cup breadcrumbs (optional for topping)
  • 1 tbsp chopped parsley (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven: Set oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
  2. Cook Pasta: Boil macaroni until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  3. Prepare Bacon & Beef: Cook bacon until crispy, then crumble. In the same pan, brown the ground beef with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Drain excess grease and stir in BBQ sauce.
  4. Make Cheese Sauce: In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute. Slowly add milk and heavy cream, whisking constantly until thickened.
  5. Add Cheese: Remove from heat and stir in cheddar, Monterey Jack, and Parmesan until melted and smooth. Mix in smoked paprika.
  6. Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix cooked pasta, cheese sauce, beef mixture, and half the bacon. Transfer to the baking dish.
  7. Top & Bake: Sprinkle breadcrumbs (if using) and remaining bacon on top. Bake uncovered for 25 minutes or until golden and bubbly.
  8. Garnish & Serve: Let cool for 5 minutes, garnish with parsley, and enjoy!

Notes

  • Make-Ahead Tip: Assemble up to 24 hours in advance, refrigerate, and bake when ready.
  • Spicy Variation: Add diced jalapeños or use a spicy BBQ sauce for heat.
  • Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free pasta and flour.
  • Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
  • Author: Chef Crenn
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 portion
  • Calories: ~620 kcal
  • Sugar: 4g
  • Sodium: 950mg
  • Fat: 38g
  • Saturated Fat: 18g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 16g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 42g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 28g
  • Cholesterol: 95mg

Keywords: BBQ bacon mac and cheese, cheeseburger mac and cheese, comfort food casserole, baked mac and cheese, bacon mac and cheese, BBQ casserole