Ingredients
• 1 lb (450g) ground beef
• 6 strips bacon, cooked and crumbled
• 1 small onion, diced
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• ¾ cup BBQ sauce (plus extra for layering)
• 2 cups cooked elbow macaroni or tater tots
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
• ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 egg (optional, helps bind)
• ¼ cup breadcrumbs or crushed potato chips (for crunch)
• Salt & pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×9-inch or 2-quart baking dish.
- In a skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef until browned. Drain excess fat.
- Add onion and garlic; cook 4–5 minutes until soft. Stir in ½ cup BBQ sauce and half the crumbled bacon. Season with salt and pepper. Remove from heat.
- In a large bowl, combine meat mixture, cooked pasta (or tater tots), cheddar, mozzarella, egg (if using), and another ¼ cup BBQ sauce. Mix gently.
- Transfer to the baking dish and spread evenly.
- Top with remaining bacon and remaining cheese. Drizzle with extra BBQ sauce for saucy flavor.
- Sprinkle with breadcrumbs or crushed chips for a crispy topping.
- Bake 20–25 minutes, until bubbly and golden on top.
- Let cool 5 minutes before serving—perfect alongside a crisp green salad or coleslaw!
✨ Great for game day, weeknight dinners, or potlucks—feeds a crowd with minimal cleanup!
💡 Make it your way: Swap in sweet potatoes, add pickles, or use plant-based beef and cheese for a vegan version.
PREP TIME & NUTRITION :
Prep Time : 15 mins , Cook Time : 25 mins , Total Time : 40 mins , Servings : 6 , Calories : 420 , Net Carbs: 28g , Fats: 22g , Protein: 28g