Looking for a hearty and comforting meal? This Cheesy Bacon Ground Beef Casserole is the perfect dish! Combining savory ground beef, crispy bacon, and a trio of cheeses, this casserole is loaded with flavor and sure to satisfy. It’s ideal for a family dinner, meal prep, or even a potluck gathering. Follow the simple steps below, and you’ll have a delicious meal ready in no time.
Ingredients:
1 1/2 lb ground beef
1 large onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
8 slices cooked bacon, crumbled
1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
1/2 cup heavy cream
3 large eggs
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp dried basil
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven:
Set your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or casserole pan with butter or cooking spray.
- Cook the ground beef:
In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned. Drain any excess grease.
Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet, and cook until the onion becomes translucent.
- Combine the ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked ground beef mixture, crumbled bacon, drained diced tomatoes, and shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until everything is well combined.
- Make the egg and cream mixture:
In a separate bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, eggs, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. This will be your creamy binder for the casserole.
- Assemble the casserole:
Pour the ground beef mixture into your prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
Pour the egg and cream mixture over the top, stirring slightly to combine.
Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated parmesan evenly over the top.
- Bake the casserole:
Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and the casserole is heated through.
- Garnish and serve:
Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes.
Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.
Enjoy your cheesy, bacon-loaded ground beef casserole!
Tips and Variations:
Add Vegetables: You can add veggies like bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini to boost the nutritional value.
Spice It Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or some chopped jalapeños for a bit of heat.
Swap Cheeses: Feel free to switch out the cheeses according to your preference. Gouda, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack would work great!
Make It Low-Carb: This recipe is naturally low-carb, but for an even lighter version, you could swap out the bacon for turkey bacon or add more greens like spinach or kalel
How to Store
Refrigerator: Allow the casserole to cool completely, then cover it tightly with foil or transfer it to an airtight container. It will last in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
Freezer: To freeze, portion the casserole into individual servings, wrap them in plastic wrap, and store in a freezer-safe container. It will last for up to 2-3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
FAQs:
Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble the casserole up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake. Just add an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time if cooking directly from the fridge.
Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey works well as a leaner alternative to ground beef. You may need to adjust the seasoning slightly to match the flavor.
What can I serve with this casserole?
This dish is quite filling on its own, but it pairs well with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
Can I make this dish dairy-free?
Yes, you can substitute the cheese and cream with dairy-free alternatives like almond milk-based cheese and coconut cream. The texture will be slightly different, but still delicious!
This cheesy bacon and ground beef casserole is the ultimate comfort food, combining rich flavors with a satisfying texture. Try it out and enjoy a warm, homemade meal!