Bacon Cheeseburger Biscuit Casserole 🍔
This Bacon Cheeseburger Biscuit Casserole is the ultimate comfort food, combining the irresistible flavors of a juicy cheeseburger with the ease of a casserole. Perfect for busy weeknights or weekend gatherings, this dish is a hit with both kids and adults alike. Layers of savory ground beef, crispy bacon, gooey melted cheese, and fluffy biscuits make for a satisfying and hearty meal. It’s a simple, crowd-pleasing recipe that’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients Overview
- Ground Beef: The base of the casserole, providing that classic burger flavor.
- Bacon: Adds a crispy, smoky flavor that complements the cheeseburger theme perfectly.
- Cheddar Cheese: Melts beautifully over the casserole, giving that rich, cheesy goodness.
- Refrigerated Biscuit Dough: Makes the casserole fun and easy, adding a light, fluffy layer on top.
- Ketchup, Mustard, and Pickles: These give the dish the traditional cheeseburger taste, adding tangy and savory notes.
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
Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Cook the Bacon:
In a skillet, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain, then crumble it into pieces once cooled.
Brown the Ground Beef:
In the same skillet, add the ground beef and onion. Cook over medium heat until the beef is browned and fully cooked through. Drain any excess fat.
Mix in Flavorings:
Stir in the ketchup, mustard, and pickles (if using) into the ground beef mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Let the mixture simmer for 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Layer the Ingredients:
Transfer the beef mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle the crumbled bacon evenly over the top. Next, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the bacon layer.
Top with Biscuits:
Place the cut biscuit quarters over the casserole, arranging them evenly across the top.
Bake:
Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the biscuits are golden brown and cooked through.
Serve and Enjoy:
Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with additional pickles, ketchup, or mustard, if desired.
Valuable Cooking Tips
- Drain Excess Grease: Be sure to drain any excess grease from the cooked ground beef to prevent the casserole from becoming too greasy.
- Biscuit Cutting Tip: To make even biscuit pieces, use a sharp knife or kitchen scissors to cut the dough into quarters.
- Customizable Toppings: Add your favorite burger toppings like jalapeños, sautéed mushrooms, or even avocado slices for a gourmet twist.
Storage and Reheating Tips
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat individual servings in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or place the entire casserole in a 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes until heated through.
20 Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use turkey or chicken instead of beef?
Yes! Ground turkey or chicken is a lighter alternative that works well in this recipe.
2. How do I keep the biscuits from getting soggy?
Ensure the beef mixture is not too wet, and bake until the biscuits are fully golden and cooked through.
3. Can I prepare this casserole in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the beef mixture ahead of time and refrigerate it. Add the biscuits and bake when you’re ready to serve.
4. Can I freeze this casserole?
Yes, you can freeze the casserole before baking. Just add the biscuits when ready to bake, and extend the cooking time by 10-15 minutes.
5. Can I use different cheese?
Of course! Try mozzarella, pepper jack, or a Mexican blend for a different flavor.
6. How can I make this spicier?
Add some diced jalapeños or a few dashes of hot sauce to the beef mixture for extra heat.
7. Can I add vegetables?
Yes! Diced bell peppers or mushrooms would make a great addition.
8. Can I use homemade biscuit dough?
Definitely! Homemade biscuits will add a nice personal touch to the dish.
9. What side dishes go well with this casserole?
Try serving it with a green salad, roasted vegetables, or fries for a complete meal.
10. Can I use pre-cooked bacon?
Yes, pre-cooked bacon can save time. Just crumble and add it in.
11. Can I make this casserole gluten-free?
Use gluten-free biscuit dough and ensure your ketchup and mustard are also gluten-free.
12. How long will leftovers last in the fridge?
Leftovers will last for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
13. Can I use low-fat cheese?
Yes, low-fat cheese can be substituted, but the casserole may not be as rich and gooey.
14. Can I omit the mustard?
If you’re not a mustard fan, you can leave it out or substitute with BBQ sauce for a tangy twist.
15. Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely! Use a larger baking dish if needed and double the ingredients accordingly.
16. Can I cook this in a slow cooker?
While this recipe is designed for baking, you can cook the beef mixture in a slow cooker and then transfer it to a dish to add the biscuits and bake.
17. What’s the best way to crumble bacon?
After cooking, place the bacon between paper towels and lightly press. It will easily crumble.
18. How do I know when the biscuits are done?
The biscuits should be golden brown on top and cooked through in the middle. You can check by poking with a fork.
19. Can I use a different type of biscuit dough?
Pillsbury Grands or any similar brand will work great. You can also experiment with crescent roll dough.
20. What can I use if I don’t have biscuit dough?
You can substitute crescent rolls, puff pastry, or even make your own dough.
20 Secrets for Achieving Culinary Perfection
- Cook the bacon first for a crispy texture that won’t get soggy.
- Season the beef well to ensure rich flavor throughout.
- Drain the beef properly to avoid a greasy casserole.
- Use sharp cheddar cheese for the best cheesy punch.
- Top the casserole with extra cheese for that irresistible melted cheese layer.
- Add a pinch of paprika for an extra smoky kick.
- Toast the biscuit dough pieces lightly before baking for an extra crispy top.
- Mix mustard and ketchup directly into the beef for even distribution.
- Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes after baking to let the flavors meld.
- Use fresh garlic instead of garlic powder for more depth of flavor.
- Add a splash of Worcestershire sauce to the beef for extra umami.
- Use parchment paper to prevent sticking in the baking dish.
- Sprinkle some sesame seeds on top of the biscuits for a burger-like touch.
- Brush the biscuits with garlic butter before baking for more flavor.
- Add cooked onions and mushrooms for a gourmet twist.
- Preheat the oven fully before baking to ensure even cooking.
- Check the biscuits halfway through to prevent burning.
- Use a mix of cheeses like gouda and mozzarella for a deeper flavor profile.
- Add a dash of hot sauce to the beef for a spicier version.
- Serve with a side of pickles for a complete cheeseburger experience.
