Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cook Time: 25 minutes | Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4 | Difficulty: Easy | Calories per Serving: 420
Description
This Mini Chili Cheese Bacon Casserole is the ultimate comfort food—packed with savory chili, gooey melted cheese, and crispy bacon. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a game-day snack, this dish is hearty, flavorful, and easy to make in just 40 minutes!
Ingredients
| Quantity | Ingredient |
|---|---|
| 6 slices | Bacon, cooked & crumbled |
| 1 lb (450g) | Ground beef (or turkey for a lighter option) |
| 1 can (15 oz) | Chili beans (undrained) |
| 1 can (8 oz) | Tomato sauce |
| 1/2 cup | Diced onions |
| 1/2 cup | Diced bell peppers |
| 1 clove | Garlic, minced |
| 1 tbsp | Chili powder |
| 1 tsp | Cumin |
| 1/2 tsp | Paprika |
| 1/2 tsp | Salt |
| 1/4 tsp | Black pepper |
| 1 cup | Shredded cheddar cheese |
| 1/2 cup | Shredded Monterey Jack cheese |
| 1/4 cup | Sour cream (optional, for topping) |
| 2 tbsp | Chopped green onions (for garnish) |
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat & Prep
-
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
-
Lightly grease a 9×9-inch baking dish or four mini casserole dishes (for individual servings).
Step 2: Cook the Bacon
-
In a skillet over medium heat, cook 6 slices of bacon until crispy.
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Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate, then crumble and set aside.
Step 3: Brown the Beef & Veggies
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In the same skillet, cook 1 lb ground beef over medium-high heat until browned.
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Add onions, bell peppers, and garlic, cooking for 3-4 minutes until softened.
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Stir in chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
Step 4: Simmer the Chili
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Pour in 1 can of chili beans (undrained) and 1 can of tomato sauce.
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Reduce heat to low and simmer for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Step 5: Assemble the Casserole
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Transfer the chili mixture into the prepared baking dish.
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Sprinkle shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese evenly on top.
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Add the crumbled bacon over the cheese.
Step 6: Bake Until Bubbly
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Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
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Optional: Broil for 1-2 minutes for extra crispiness.
Step 7: Garnish & Serve
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Let cool for 5 minutes before serving.
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Top with sour cream and chopped green onions if desired.
Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 420 |
| Total Fat | 28g |
| Saturated Fat | 12g |
| Cholesterol | 95mg |
| Sodium | 980mg |
| Total Carbs | 15g |
| Dietary Fiber | 4g |
| Sugars | 4g |
| Protein | 28g |
Tips & Variations
✅ Make it Spicy: Add jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce for extra heat.
✅ Vegetarian Option: Swap beef for plant-based crumbles and use vegetarian chili beans.
✅ Meal Prep: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven.
Final Thoughts
This Mini Chili Cheese Bacon Casserole is a crowd-pleaser—rich, cheesy, and packed with bold flavors. Whether you’re feeding the family or hosting friends, this dish is sure to be a hit!
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