In a separate saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the flour to form a smooth paste (roux) and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly to remove the raw flour taste.
Gradually whisk in the milk, a little at a time, until smooth and slightly thickened. Continue to stir for 3–4 minutes until the mixture coats the back of a spoon.
Remove from heat and stir in 1 1/2 cups of the shredded cheddar cheese. Mix until the cheese melts into a smooth, creamy sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4️⃣ Assemble the Casserole
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
In a large bowl or pot, combine the cooked pasta, meat mixture, and cheese sauce. Stir well to coat every piece of pasta evenly.
Fold in half of the cooked bacon for a smoky, savory bite throughout the casserole.
Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of cheddar cheese and the rest of the bacon on top.
5️⃣ Bake and Serve
Bake the casserole uncovered for 20–25 minutes, or until bubbly and golden brown on top.
Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes after baking to allow it to set for easier serving.
Garnish with pickle slices, chopped green onions, or any of your favorite cheeseburger toppings. Serve hot and enjoy!
