Description
Loaded Bacon Cheeseburger Casserole Recipe
Ingredients:
For the Base:
1 lb ground beef
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
For the Sauce:
3 large eggs
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/4 cup mayonnaise
1/4 cup ketchup
2 tbsp yellow mustard
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp onion powder
For the Topping:
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
6 slices cooked bacon, crumbled
2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Beef Mixture:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef, onion, and garlic until the beef is browned and the onions are softened. Drain excess fat.
Season with salt and pepper. Transfer the beef mixture to a greased 8×8-inch baking dish.
2. Make the Sauce:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs, heavy cream, mayonnaise, ketchup, mustard, garlic powder, and onion powder until smooth.
Pour the sauce evenly over the beef mixture in the baking dish.
3. Assemble the Casserole:
Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top.
Add the crumbled bacon on top of the cheese.
4. Bake:
Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the casserole is heated through.
5. Garnish and Serve:
Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for 5 minutes.
Sprinkle with fresh parsley, if desired, and serve warm.
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for perfect results. First, ensure all ingredients are prepped. Cook the bacon until crisp, then crumble. While the oven preheats, brown the beef with the onion and garlic in a skillet, breaking it into small pieces. Thoroughly draining the fat is crucial to prevent a greasy casserole. For the sauce, whisk the wet ingredients vigorously until completely smooth and emulsified. When assembling, press the beef mixture down slightly in the dish before adding the sauce to ensure even coverage. Bake on the middle rack until the edges are bubbling and the center is set.
Serving Suggestions
This hearty casserole is a complete meal but pairs wonderfully with lighter sides. For a classic diner feel, serve with a crisp dill pickle spear and a handful of potato chips. To balance the richness, a simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette is perfect. It also makes an excellent game-day dish alongside celery sticks, carrot sticks, and ranch dressing for dipping.
How-to Summary
Brown beef with aromatics, drain, and place in a baking dish. Whisk eggs, cream, mayo, ketchup, mustard, and spices into a sauce and pour over beef. Top with cheese and crumbled bacon. Bake at 375°F for 25-30 minutes until bubbly. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this casserole ahead of time? Yes. Assemble the casserole completely, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Add 5-10 minutes to the baking time when cooking from cold.
What can I use instead of heavy cream? Whole milk or half-and-half can be substituted, though the result will be slightly less rich. Avoid skim milk.
Is it possible to use a different cheese? Absolutely. Monterey Jack, Colby Jack, or a pepper jack for a spicy kick are excellent alternatives to cheddar.
How do I store and reheat leftovers? Store cooled leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or the entire dish, covered with foil, in a 350°F oven until warm.
Can I add other ingredients? Certainly. Diced pickles, a tablespoon of pickle juice in the sauce, or a handful of frozen peas mixed into the beef layer are popular additions.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Not Draining the Beef: Skipping this step leads to a greasy, unappetizing final dish.
- Undermixing the Sauce: Whisk until completely smooth to avoid streaks of egg or mayo.
- Overbaking: The casserole is done when the edges bubble and the center is just set. Overbaking can cause it to dry out.
- Skipping the Rest Time: Letting it cool for 5 minutes allows it to set for cleaner slices.
Conclusion
This Loaded Bacon Cheeseburger Casserole expertly captures the beloved flavors of a classic burger in a comforting, easy-to-serve format. It’s a versatile, crowd-pleasing recipe perfect for busy weeknights, potlucks, or casual gatherings. By following the step-by-step guide and avoiding common pitfalls, you’ll achieve a deliciously rich and satisfying result every time. Give this recipe a try for a guaranteed family favorite that simplifies cleanup without sacrificing taste.