BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Casserole

Ingredients

1 lb ground beef
6 slices crispy bacon, crumbled
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1½ cups cooked elbow macaroni
1 cup BBQ sauce
½ cup diced onions
½ cup diced pickles (optional, for tangy flavor)
2 tbsp ketchup
1 tbsp mustard
1 tsp smoked paprika
1 tsp garlic powder
Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions

 Preheat Oven:

Preheat your oven to 375°F. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and set it aside.

 Cook the Beef:

In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Drain excess grease and stir in the onions. Cook until softened, about 2-3 minutes.

 Mix the Sauce:

Add BBQ sauce, ketchup, mustard, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper to the beef mixture. Stir well and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes.

 Combine Ingredients:

In a large bowl, mix the cooked macaroni, ground beef mixture, crumbled bacon (reserve a little for topping), and half the shredded cheddar cheese. Add pickles if you’re using them for a tangy kick.

 Assemble the Casserole:

Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese and reserved bacon on top.

 Bake:

Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

 Serve Hot:

Garnish with extra pickles, green onions, or a drizzle of BBQ sauce for added flavor. Serve with a simple salad or garlic bread for a complete meal!
Tips:

For a spicy twist, add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the beef mixture.
This dish reheats beautifully, making it perfect for meal prep or leftovers.