Introduction

If you’ve ever wondered what happens when the creamy comfort of mac and cheese collides with the smoky-sweet punch of barbecue and the crispy goodness of bacon, this recipe has your answer. The Ooey Gooey BBQ Bacon Mac ‘n’ Cheese Lasagna is not your average pasta dish—it’s a bold, layered creation that satisfies cravings for cheesy decadence and smoky flavor in every bite. Imagine forkfuls of tender macaroni, tangy BBQ beef, crispy bacon, and melted cheese stacked like a lasagna. This recipe is the definition of indulgence and is sure to become a family favorite.

My Recipe Story

This dish was born out of my love for comfort food mash-ups. One evening, I couldn’t decide between making classic lasagna, a skillet of mac and cheese, or a BBQ bacon cheeseburger-inspired pasta bake. Instead of choosing, I combined all three ideas into one dish—and the result was extraordinary. It was rich, cheesy, smoky, and unlike anything I’d ever tasted. My family polished it off in record time, and I knew I had stumbled on a recipe worth sharing. Since then, this has been my go-to for potlucks, game nights, and cozy weekends at home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Combines the best of three comfort food classics: lasagna, mac and cheese, and BBQ bacon.
• Perfect for feeding a crowd, with generous portions and layers of flavor.
• Customizable with different meats, cheeses, and BBQ sauces.
• Kid-friendly and adult-approved—everyone loves cheesy pasta with bacon!
• Make-ahead friendly and freezer-friendly for busy schedules.
• Eye-catching and fun—this dish is as impressive as it is delicious.

Ingredient Breakdown

The ingredient list may look long, but every element serves a purpose in creating layers of flavor and texture. The base starts with elbow macaroni, cooked just to al dente, which provides a chewy bite without becoming mushy when baked. This is crucial since the pasta will continue to cook in the oven.

Next, ground beef paired with onions adds a hearty, savory depth. The mixture is seasoned and simmered with BBQ sauce to give it a smoky-sweet punch that ties everything together. The bacon brings crispiness and an irresistible salty crunch, contrasting perfectly with the creamy cheese sauce.

Speaking of cheese, this dish calls for a blend of cheddar, mozzarella, and cream cheese. Cheddar provides sharp flavor, mozzarella adds stretch and meltability, and cream cheese gives a silky texture to the sauce. A little milk or heavy cream ensures that the mac and cheese layer stays smooth and luscious. Finally, lasagna-style layering elevates the presentation and makes every slice beautifully packed with flavor.

Equipment You’ll Need

• Large stockpot for boiling pasta
• Large skillet for cooking beef and onions
• Medium saucepan for making cheese sauce
• 9×13-inch baking dish for layering
• Mixing bowls
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Sharp knife and cutting board
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Whisk

Step-by-Step Directions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and add the elbow macaroni. Cook until just al dente, about 7–8 minutes, since the pasta will bake further in the oven. Drain and set aside. Lightly toss with a little olive oil to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Prepare the Bacon
In a large skillet, cook the bacon until crispy and golden brown. Remove it to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess grease. Once cooled, crumble the bacon into small pieces. Reserve a little bacon fat in the pan for added flavor in the next step.

Step 3: Cook the Beef and Onions
In the same skillet, add the diced onions and sauté until softened and fragrant. Add the ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Season with salt and pepper. Once browned, stir in BBQ sauce and let it simmer for 5 minutes until thickened. This forms the smoky-sweet layer of the lasagna.

Step 4: Make the Cheese Sauce
In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat, then whisk in flour to create a roux. Slowly add milk, whisking continuously until smooth and slightly thickened. Stir in shredded cheddar, mozzarella, and cream cheese until melted and creamy. Taste and adjust with salt and pepper. Toss the drained macaroni in this sauce until fully coated.

Step 5: Assemble the Lasagna
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Start with a layer of cheesy macaroni, followed by the BBQ beef mixture, then a sprinkle of bacon. Repeat layers until the dish is full, finishing with a generous topping of macaroni and shredded cheese.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake an additional 10–15 minutes until the cheese on top is bubbling and golden brown. Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving to allow the layers to set.

Variations & Substitutions

This recipe is highly adaptable. Swap ground beef for ground turkey, chicken, or sausage for a different protein base. Vegetarian? Omit the meat and bacon, and add roasted vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, or bell peppers. You can also experiment with cheeses—try gouda, pepper jack, or smoked provolone for a twist. If you prefer a spicier kick, mix some hot sauce into the BBQ beef layer or use a spicy BBQ sauce. Gluten-free pasta and flour can easily be used for dietary needs without sacrificing flavor.

Expert Tips & Troubleshooting

• Don’t overcook the pasta: Keep it slightly firm so it doesn’t get mushy after baking.
• Layer carefully: Even layers make slicing easier and ensure each bite has a balanced mix of flavors.
• Cheese choice matters: Use freshly shredded cheese for the smoothest melting.
• Avoid watery sauce: Simmer the BBQ beef until thick to prevent a runny lasagna.
• Let it rest: Always allow 10 minutes before serving so the lasagna sets properly.

Storage, Freezing & Make-Ahead

This dish keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days when stored in an airtight container. For longer storage, freeze portions tightly wrapped in foil and place them in a freezer bag. Reheat from frozen in the oven, covered, at 350°F until warmed through. To make ahead, assemble the lasagna up to the baking step, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking as directed.

Serving Ideas & Pairings

This rich dish pairs well with lighter sides to balance out the decadence. Serve it with a crisp garden salad, roasted vegetables, or garlic bread. For drinks, try a chilled iced tea, a citrusy lemonade, or a bold red wine like Zinfandel that complements the smoky-sweet flavors. If serving at a party, consider pairing with coleslaw or pickles for a tangy contrast.

FAQ

Can I use leftover mac and cheese?
Yes! Leftover mac and cheese makes a great shortcut. Just prepare the beef, bacon, and layering as described.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely. Leave out the beef and bacon, and add roasted veggies or plant-based protein crumbles instead.

What’s the best BBQ sauce to use?
Choose one you love! Sweet, smoky, or spicy varieties all work well depending on your taste preference.

How do I prevent my lasagna from falling apart?
Be sure to let it rest after baking. This helps the cheese firm up and keeps the slices intact.

Can I double the recipe?
Yes, simply prepare two baking dishes if cooking for a large crowd. Adjust oven space accordingly.

Final Thoughts

The Ooey Gooey BBQ Bacon Mac ‘n’ Cheese Lasagna is proof that sometimes the best recipes are born from bold combinations. It’s indulgent, hearty, and full of personality—perfect for celebrations, casual gatherings, or whenever you need some cheesy comfort. With layers of creamy macaroni, smoky BBQ beef, and crispy bacon, this dish delivers an unforgettable dining experience. Try it once, and it may just become your new signature comfort food.

Ooey Gooey BBQ Bacon Mac ‘n’ Cheese Lasagna

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• Author: Sarah White
• Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
• Yield: 6–8 servings 1x
• Diet: Gluten Free

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Description

A decadent layered lasagna with cheesy macaroni, smoky BBQ beef, and crispy bacon for the ultimate comfort dish.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 lb elbow macaroni

• 1 lb ground beef

• 1 onion, diced

• 1 cup BBQ sauce

• 8 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled

• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

• 4 oz cream cheese

• 2 tbsp butter

• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour

• 2 cups milk

• Salt and pepper, to taste

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Instructions

• Cook the elbow macaroni in salted boiling water until just al dente, then drain and set aside.

• In a skillet, cook the bacon until crispy, then crumble and set aside, reserving a bit of fat in the pan.

• Sauté diced onions in the skillet, then add ground beef. Cook until browned, season with salt and pepper, and stir in BBQ sauce. Simmer 5 minutes.

• In a saucepan, melt butter and whisk in flour. Slowly add milk until smooth, then stir in cheddar, mozzarella, and cream cheese until creamy. Mix with drained macaroni.

• Preheat oven to 375°F. In a greased 9×13-inch dish, layer macaroni, BBQ beef, and bacon. Repeat layers and top with macaroni and shredded cheese.

• Cover with foil and bake 20 minutes. Remove foil and bake 10–15 more minutes until cheese is bubbly. Let rest 10 minutes before serving.

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days or freeze portions for later. Serve with a salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American