Name: Bacon Cheeseburger Ramen Bake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Ingredients: 2 packages instant ramen noodles (seasoning packets discarded); 1 lb ground beef; 6 to 8 slices bacon (chopped); 1 small onion (diced); 2 to 3 garlic cloves (minced); 1/2 cup ketchup; 2 to 3 tablespoons yellow or Dijon mustard; 2 to 3 tablespoons pickle relish (optional); 1 1/2 to 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar, American, or blend); Salt and freshly ground black pepper (to taste); Optional toppings: diced pickles (extra cheese, chopped green onions)

Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

Experience the ultimate comfort food fusion with this Bacon Cheeseburger Ramen Bake. It brings together the smoky, savory goodness of crispy bacon, seasoned ground beef, and melty cheese melded perfectly with tender ramen noodles, recreating all the nostalgic flavors of a classic cheeseburger in a warm, hearty casserole.

This dish is not only a savory delight but also a crowd-pleaser perfect for family dinners or casual get-togethers. Simple to prepare yet impressively flavorful, it’s the ideal way to reinvent instant ramen into an indulgent, homemade meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Combines bacon, beef, cheese, and ramen noodles for a unique cheeseburger twist.
Quick, easy to prepare, and perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner.
Customizable with your favorite toppings and cheese blends for extra flavor.

Ingredients

Instant ramen noodles: Two packages of ramen noodles, cooked and drained to provide a tender base without the seasoning packets.
Ground beef (500 g / 1 lb): Adds rich, hearty flavor and protein, perfectly seasoned to mimic cheeseburger meat.
Bacon (6–8 slices, chopped): Crispy cooked bacon delivers smoky, salty bites enhancing the casserole’s savoriness.
Small onion, diced: Adds sweetness and a subtle pungent aroma to balance the richness.
Garlic cloves (2–3, minced): Infuses deep, savory notes that complement the beef and bacon perfectly.
Ketchup (½ cup): Brings classic tangy sweetness characteristic of cheeseburger flavor profiles.
Mustard (2–3 tbsp): Yellow or Dijon, provides a sharp, zesty contrast enhancing the dish’s depth.
Pickle relish (2–3 tbsp, optional): Adds a sweet and tangy crunch, mimicking iconic burger toppings.
Shredded cheese (1½–2 cups): Use cheddar, American, or a blend for melty, gooey cheeseburger essence.
Salt & freshly ground black pepper: To season and enhance overall flavor.
Optional toppings: Diced pickles, extra cheese, chopped green onions to garnish and add fresh texture.

Instructions

Cook the ramen noodles: Bring a pot of water to a rolling boil, then add the ramen noodles. Cook until tender, about 3 minutes, keeping them slightly firm. Drain thoroughly and set aside to avoid sogginess during baking.
Cook the bacon & beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the chopped bacon until crisp to render out flavorful fat. Remove and set aside, leaving some bacon fat in the pan. Add ground beef and diced onions to the skillet. Cook until beef is browned and onions soften, breaking up the meat for even cooking. Stir in minced garlic for an additional minute to release its aroma.
Add flavorings: Mix ketchup, mustard, and optional pickle relish into the beef mixture. These ingredients recreate the tangy, savory notes of a cheeseburger. Season well with salt and pepper. Stir until the mixture is heated through and fully combined, locking in flavor.
Combine with noodles: Fold the cooked ramen noodles gently into the beef mixture, tossing to coat all noodles evenly with the ketchup-mustard sauce and beef juices, ensuring every bite has rich flavor.
Assemble the bake: Preheat oven to 190 °C (375 °F). Transfer the noodle and beef mixture into a prepared baking dish and spread evenly. Sprinkle shredded cheese over the top, followed by the crispy bacon bits to create a beautifully melty, savory crust.
Bake until bubbly and golden: Bake in the preheated oven for 15–20 minutes or until the cheese is fully melted, bubbly, and edges start to turn golden. This creates a decadent and comforting texture contrast.
Serve warm with toppings: Remove from oven and let cool for a few minutes. Sprinkle diced pickles or chopped green onions on top for freshness and texture. Serve warm and enjoy the harmonious flavors reminiscent of your favorite cheeseburger.

You Must Know

For best texture, toss noodles lightly with oil after cooking to prevent sticking before combining.
Adjust ketchup or add Worcestershire sauce for deeper savory undertones matching your taste.
Leftovers reheat well in the oven or microwave but may lose some crispness over time.

Storage Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat covered in the oven or microwave to retain moisture and flavor. For best texture, bake again briefly after reheating if topping has softened.

Serving Suggestions

Pair this hearty bake with a crisp green salad or oven-baked fries for a balanced meal. A cold glass of lemonade or your favorite beer complements these rich, savory flavors perfectly.

Professional Tips

Opt for a sharp cheddar and mozzarella cheese blend to balance flavor and meltiness.
Crisping the bacon well adds texture and releases flavorful fat for cooking the beef.
Use freshly ground black pepper and quality mustard to elevate the overall dish robustness.

FAQs

Can I substitute ground turkey or chicken for beef?: Yes, ground turkey or chicken can be used as a leaner alternative, but adjust seasoning accordingly as they have milder flavors.
Is it necessary to discard the ramen seasoning packets?: Yes, the packets contain flavors that may clash with the cheeseburger-inspired sauce, so it’s best to discard them for this recipe.
Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?: You can assemble the bake in advance and refrigerate before baking. Add the cheese and bacon topping just before baking.
What cheese works best for melting in this bake?: A mix of sharp cheddar and mozzarella gives you gooey melt and bold flavor, but American cheese works well too.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?: Traditional instant ramen contains gluten, so use gluten-free noodles or rice noodles as a substitute to make it gluten-free.
How can I make this dish spicier?: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper in the beef mixture or top with sliced jalapeños for a spicy kick.
What is the best vegetarian alternative?: Substitute beef with plant-based ground meat or cooked lentils, and use vegetarian bacon or omit bacon altogether.