If you’re a fan of classic American flavors, this Savory Bacon Cheeseburger Casserole is about to be your new favorite dinner. It combines all the best parts of a cheeseburger into a comforting, cheesy bake that's perfect for any time of year.
Ground beef is the heart of this dish, providing that essential beefy flavor. Make sure to brown it well for depth. Bacon adds a smoky, crispy element that takes the flavor to the next level. Onion and bell pepper are sautéed to add a touch of sweetness and texture, while garlic gives a wonderful aromatic base. Cheddar cheese and mozzarella cheese work together for a perfect melt and flavor combination. Dill pickles are chopped and added to bring a tangy, acidic balance that cuts through the richness. The sauce, made with mayonnaise, ketchup, and mustard, mimics classic burger toppings, and a dash of Worcestershire sauce deepens the umami profile. Black pepper and salt season the dish, while frozen hash browns serve as the hearty base.
This casserole is hearty on its own, but you can serve it with a side of fresh green salad to balance out the richness. A light coleslaw would also complement the flavors nicely. For a real diner experience, consider serving it with sweet potato fries on the side.
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). You’ll want the oven nice and hot for perfectly melted cheese. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook your bacon until it’s crispy. Set it aside to cool before crumbling it. Using the same skillet, brown the ground beef until it's fully cooked, then drain any excess fat to avoid a greasy casserole.
Next, toss in the chopped onion, bell pepper, and minced garlic, and sauté them with the beef. You’re looking for the vegetables to soften and release their flavors. This should take about 5 minutes. Stir in the mayonnaise, ketchup, mustard, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper until everything is well combined. The mix should look creamy and smell amazing.
In a large bowl, combine the beef mixture with the crumbled bacon, half of the cheddar cheese, half of the mozzarella, and the chopped pickles. Mix it up well so every bite has a bit of everything.
Now, grab a greased 9x13 inch baking dish and spread the frozen hash browns evenly along the bottom. These create a wonderful crust-like base for the casserole. Pour your beef mixture over the hash browns, spreading it out evenly. Finally, sprinkle the remaining cheese on top.
Pop the dish in your preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden. Let it rest for about 5 minutes before serving. This gives the casserole time to set, making it easier to slice and serve.
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