Nothing beats a smoky, cheesy, and hearty dish when you’re craving comfort food, and this Loaded Cowboy BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Casserole Supreme delivers in every way.

Packed with juicy ground beef, smoky BBQ sauce, crispy bacon, and melty cheese, this casserole takes all the best parts of a bacon cheeseburger and blends them with tender pasta for a bold, satisfying meal.

Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or looking for a crowd-pleaser, this dish is pure cowboy comfort on a plate!

This one-pan, easy-to-make meal has everything: smoky, tangy BBQ flavors, creamy cheese, crispy bacon, and perfectly cooked pasta that absorbs all the deliciousness.

It’s easy to throw together, packed with protein, and a great way to enjoy cheeseburger flavors in a fun, baked pasta dish.

Plus, it’s customizable—add your favorite toppings, adjust the spice level, and make it your own!

Loaded Cowboy BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Casserole Supreme
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Loaded Cowboy BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Casserole Supreme

Recipe by JoanneCourse: MainCuisine: American / BBQ FusionDifficulty: Easy
Servings

6-8

servings
Prep time

15

minutes
Cooking time

25

minutes
Calories

600-700

kcal

Ingredients

  • 1½ pounds ground beef (80/20 for best flavor)

  • 2 cups cooked pasta (penne or elbow works best)

  • 1 small onion, diced

  • 3 cloves garlic, minced

  • 1½ teaspoon smoked paprika

  • 1 teaspoon onion powder

  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder

  • 1 teaspoon salt

  • ½ teaspoon black pepper

  • ½ cup BBQ sauce (hickory or mesquite recommended)

  • ¼ cup ketchup

  • 1 tablespoon yellow mustard

  • 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce

  • 6 slices thick-cut bacon, cooked and crumbled

  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

  • ½ cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese

  • ½ cup crispy fried onions (French-fried onions)

  • ½ cup sliced dill pickles (optional, for serving)

  • ½ cup diced tomatoes (optional)

  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional garnish)

Directions

  • Step 1: Cook the Pasta
  • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
  • Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
  • Drain and set aside.
  • Step 2: Cook the Beef Mixture
  • While the pasta cooks, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  • Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spatula, until browned (about 5-6 minutes).
  • Stir in the diced onion and garlic, cooking for another 2-3 minutes until softened.
  • Add smoked paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper, stirring well.
  • Pour in BBQ sauce, ketchup, mustard, and Worcestershire sauce, mixing everything together.
  • Reduce heat to low and simmer for 5 minutes to let the flavors blend.
  • Step 3: Assemble the Casserole
  • Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
  • In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, combine the cooked pasta and beef mixture, stirring to coat the pasta evenly.
  • Sprinkle cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese over the top.
  • Scatter crumbled bacon and crispy fried onions evenly across the casserole.
  • Step 4: Bake & Serve
  • Bake uncovered for 15-20 minutes, or until cheese is fully melted and bubbling.
  • Remove from oven and let sit for 5 minutes before serving.
  • Garnish with chopped parsley, diced tomatoes, and sliced pickles, if desired.

Notes

  • Make it spicier! Add a dash of hot sauce or diced jalapeños.
  • Want more crunch? Sprinkle extra crispy onions on top before serving.
  • Make it keto-friendly: Swap the pasta for roasted cauliflower or zucchini noodles.
  • Pair it with sides: Serve with garlic bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Storage & Reheating

Storing Leftovers

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating

  • Oven: Reheat at 350°F (175°C) for 10-12 minutes.
  • Microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals until warm.
  • Stovetop: Heat in a pan over low heat, adding a splash of water if needed.