Cheesy Ground Beef and Bacon Casserole: Comfort Food at Its Best

There’s nothing more satisfying than a warm, hearty casserole straight from the oven. When you combine tender ground beef, crispy bacon, and layers of gooey, melted cheese, you’ve got a winner that everyone at the dinner table will love. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or preparing for a gathering with friends, this Cheesy Ground Beef and Bacon Casserole is the perfect solution.

The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity and versatility. With minimal ingredients, it’s a budget-friendly meal that doesn’t skimp on flavor. Plus, it’s easy to customize to your family’s tastes by adding extra veggies, seasonings, or even switching up the cheese variety. Let’s jump into this classic comfort food recipe that will quickly become a household favorite.

Ingredients

Before starting, make sure you’ve got all the essentials. Here’s what you’ll need to prepare this delicious casserole:

1 lb ground beef
8 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
4 medium potatoes, thinly sliced
1 medium onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese (or cheese of your choice)
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
2 tablespoons butter
1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
Chopped parsley, for garnish (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven heats up, cook the bacon in a skillet over medium heat until it’s crispy. Once done, set the bacon aside on paper towels to drain excess grease. Once cool, crumble the bacon into small pieces.

In the same skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Use a wooden spoon to break the beef into small crumbles as it cooks. Drain any excess fat and set the beef aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

In the same skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Add the diced onion and garlic and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until they are softened and fragrant. You want the onions to be translucent and the garlic to be aromatic, but be careful not to burn them.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce

Once the onions and garlic are sautéed, sprinkle 1 tablespoon of flour over them and stir for about a minute to create a roux. Slowly pour in the heavy cream while whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Continue to stir until the sauce thickens slightly, which should take about 2-3 minutes. Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of smoked paprika if you’re using it.

Step 4: Layer the Casserole

Now that your sauce is ready, it’s time to assemble the casserole. In a greased baking dish, begin by arranging a layer of thinly sliced potatoes on the bottom. Season the potato layer with a little salt and pepper.

Next, add a layer of cooked ground beef, followed by a layer of bacon crumbles. Pour a bit of the creamy sauce over this layer, and then sprinkle some shredded cheddar cheese on top.

Repeat the layering process with the remaining ingredients: more potatoes, ground beef, bacon, sauce, and cheese. Finish with a generous topping of both cheddar and mozzarella cheese for an irresistible, melty crust.

Step 5: Bake

Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 45 minutes to allow the potatoes to cook through. After 45 minutes, remove the foil and bake uncovered for an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

To ensure the potatoes are fully cooked, you can test them by inserting a fork into the casserole. If the fork goes in easily, the dish is ready!

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Once the casserole is done, remove it from the oven and allow it to cool for a few minutes. This will help the layers set and make it easier to serve.

For an extra pop of color and flavor, garnish the top with chopped parsley. Serve hot, and watch your family dive into this cheesy, meaty delight!

Customizations and Variations

One of the best things about casseroles is how easy they are to adapt to your taste. Here are a few ways you can customize this Cheesy Ground Beef and Bacon Casserole to make it your own:

Add Vegetables: For a more balanced meal, consider adding veggies like bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach to the layers. They add both nutrition and flavor!
Spicy Kick: If you love spice, add some chili flakes or jalapeños into the ground beef mixture for a touch of heat.
Cheese Options: While cheddar and mozzarella are classic choices, you can experiment with other cheese varieties like pepper jack, Monterey Jack, or even gruyere for a unique flavor.
Swap Potatoes: Instead of regular potatoes, you can use sweet potatoes for a slightly sweeter and more nutritious option. Zucchini or cauliflower can also work as a low-carb alternative.

Serving Suggestions

This cheesy casserole is a complete meal on its own, but you can also pair it with some sides for a well-rounded dinner. Here are a few ideas:

Simple Salad: A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette is the perfect contrast to the rich flavors of the casserole.
Steamed Veggies: Serve with steamed broccoli, green beans, or asparagus to add some healthy greens to the plate.
Dinner Rolls: Soft, buttery dinner rolls are great for soaking up the creamy sauce from the casserole.

Leftovers and Storage

If you have leftovers (though they’re unlikely to last long!), here’s how to store them:

Refrigerator: Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat individual portions in the microwave or oven when ready to enjoy again.
Freezer: You can also freeze this casserole for longer storage. Let the casserole cool completely before wrapping it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and then warm in the oven until heated through.

Final Thoughts

This Cheesy Ground Beef and Bacon Casserole is the ultimate comfort food, combining savory ground beef, crispy bacon, and a creamy cheese sauce over tender potatoes. It’s a crowd-pleaser that works for busy weeknight dinners, potlucks, or even family gatherings.

The recipe is easy to follow and provides endless opportunities for customization, making it a versatile go-to meal for any occasion. So, gather your ingredients and get ready to enjoy this mouthwatering casserole that will leave everyone asking for seconds!