Cheeseburger Casserole – OMG😱 DON’T LOSE THIS😋
This Cheeseburger Casserole brings all the best flavors of a classic cheeseburger into an easy, hearty casserole. Juicy ground beef, crispy bacon, melted cheddar cheese, and a soft biscuit topping come together for a mouthwatering meal that’s perfect for weeknights or family gatherings. It’s quick, delicious, and sure to become a family favorite. Let’s dig into how to make this irresistible dish!
Ingredients Overview:
- Ground Beef: The main protein, providing the savory, juicy cheeseburger base.
- Bacon: Crispy and smoky, it adds texture and a rich flavor that complements the cheeseburger vibe.
- Cheddar Cheese: Melty, gooey cheddar gives the casserole its signature cheesy goodness.
- Refrigerated Biscuit Dough: Fluffy and light, the biscuits add a perfect topping to this hearty dish.
- Ketchup, Mustard, and Pickles: These give the dish a tangy, savory cheeseburger essence, enhancing the overall flavor profile.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1/2 pound bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 can (16.3 oz) refrigerated biscuit dough, cut into quarters
- 1/2 cup ketchup
- 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
- 1/4 cup chopped pickles (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions:
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it’s ready for baking once the casserole is assembled.
Step 2: Cook the Bacon
In a skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon until crispy. Once done, transfer it to a paper towel-lined plate to drain. Once cooled, crumble the bacon into small pieces and set aside.
Step 3: Brown the Ground Beef
In the same skillet, add the ground beef and chopped onion. Cook over medium heat until the beef is browned and the onions are soft. Be sure to drain any excess fat from the pan once the beef is fully cooked.
Step 4: Mix in Flavorings
To the beef and onion mixture, add the ketchup, mustard, and pickles (if using). Stir well to combine, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Let the mixture simmer for 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
Step 5: Layer the Ingredients
Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and transfer the ground beef mixture into the dish, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle the crumbled bacon evenly over the beef mixture, followed by a layer of shredded cheddar cheese.
Step 6: Top with Biscuits
Arrange the biscuit quarters on top of the casserole, spreading them out evenly across the surface.
Step 7: Bake
Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the biscuits are golden brown and cooked through.
Step 8: Serve and Enjoy!
Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. If desired, garnish with extra pickles, ketchup, or mustard for an added cheeseburger kick. Enjoy the delicious layers of flavors and textures!
20 Most Popular Questions and Their Answers:
1. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the beef mixture ahead of time and refrigerate it. When ready to bake, add the biscuit dough and bake as directed.
2. Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?
Yes, ground turkey works as a lighter alternative, though the flavor will be slightly different.
3. Can I add vegetables to this casserole?
Absolutely! You can add bell peppers, mushrooms, or even diced tomatoes for extra texture and flavor.
4. How do I prevent the biscuits from becoming soggy?
Make sure to cook the beef mixture down so that there is no excess liquid, and spread the biscuits evenly over the top.
5. Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes, you can use any melting cheese you like, such as Monterey Jack, Swiss, or mozzarella.
6. Can I make this casserole gluten-free?
Yes, use gluten-free biscuit dough and ensure the rest of your ingredients (like ketchup and mustard) are gluten-free.
7. How long do leftovers last?
Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
8. Can I freeze this casserole?
Yes, you can freeze the casserole after baking. Let it cool completely before freezing. When reheating, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in the oven.
9. How do I reheat leftovers?
Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F for about 15 minutes, or until warmed through. The microwave works too, but the biscuits might lose some of their crispiness.
10. Can I make this casserole without bacon?
Yes, you can omit the bacon if desired, though it adds a nice smoky flavor.
11. Can I use homemade biscuit dough?
Definitely! If you have a favorite biscuit recipe, feel free to use it.
12. What can I serve with this casserole?
A simple green salad, roasted vegetables, or French fries pair perfectly with this dish.
13. Can I use low-fat ingredients?
Yes, you can use lean ground beef, turkey bacon, reduced-fat cheese, and low-fat biscuit dough to lighten up the recipe.
14. Can I add more toppings?
Feel free to get creative! Toppings like sliced jalapeños, avocado, or BBQ sauce can take this casserole to the next level.
15. Can I use a different type of mustard?
Yes, Dijon mustard or spicy brown mustard will work well if you prefer a different flavor.
16. Can I skip the pickles?
Yes, the pickles are optional. If you don’t like pickles, you can leave them out or substitute them with relish.
17. Can I add hot sauce for extra heat?
Yes, a dash of hot sauce in the beef mixture will give the casserole a spicy kick.
18. Can I use croissant dough instead of biscuit dough?
Yes, croissant dough will provide a flakier, lighter topping.
19. How do I know when the biscuits are fully cooked?
The biscuits should be golden brown and fluffy. You can also gently lift a piece to check if the bottom is cooked through.
20. Can I add an egg wash to the biscuits?
Yes, brushing the biscuits with an egg wash (a beaten egg mixed with a little water) before baking will give them a shiny, golden finish.
30 Helpful Tips to Make Cheeseburger Casserole Even More Delightful:
- Use seasoned ground beef to enhance the flavor—try adding garlic powder, onion powder, or smoked paprika.
- Cook the bacon in the oven for evenly crispy bacon without the mess.
- Use shredded cheese in layers for a perfectly gooey, cheesy bite in every forkful.
- Mix in some sautéed mushrooms for a rich, earthy flavor.
- Try adding Worcestershire sauce to the ground beef mixture for extra umami.
- Top with fried onions for a crispy, savory texture on top.
- Use buttermilk biscuits for extra fluffiness and flavor.
- Add a drizzle of BBQ sauce for a smoky, tangy twist on the classic cheeseburger flavor.
- Incorporate jalapeños for a spicy kick.
- Brush the biscuits with melted butter and garlic for extra richness.
- Try using pepper jack cheese for a spicy cheese option.
- Add a layer of caramelized onions for a sweeter, more sophisticated flavor.
- Mix some grated Parmesan into the cheddar for added depth.
- Use ground pork or a mix of pork and beef for a richer flavor profile.
- Sprinkle sesame seeds on top of the biscuits to mimic a cheeseburger bun.
- Add a layer of cooked, crispy tater tots under the biscuits for a crunchy twist.
- Serve with a side of ranch or special sauce for dipping.
- Incorporate spinach or kale for added greens and nutrients.
- Add chopped fresh tomatoes for a juicy burst of flavor.
- Toast the biscuit pieces lightly before adding them on top for extra crispiness.
- Try adding a few tablespoons of cream cheese to the ground beef for added creaminess.
- Serve with a pickle spear on the side to emphasize the cheeseburger theme.
- Grate some garlic into the ground beef for added depth of flavor.
- Add sliced avocado on top after baking for a creamy finish.
- Use pre-cooked biscuits for a quick and easy version of the casserole.
- Top with a drizzle of ketchup and mustard right before serving for visual appeal.
- Add chopped bell peppers to the ground beef mixture for a pop of color and crunch.
- Garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro for added freshness.
- Let the casserole sit for a few minutes before serving to allow the flavors to settle.