Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Stack

This turkey bacon cheeseburger rice stack is my family’s new obsession for speedy weeknight dinners because it transforms the classic cheeseburger craving into a comforting casserole ready in just over 30 minutes start to finish. By layering juicy ground beef, creamy cheddar cheese, tangy pickles, smoky turkey bacon, and fluffy rice, you get the perfect kid friendly and crowd pleasing meal any night. The minimal 15 minute prep and streamlined baking time make this cheeseburger rice casserole a go to for busy families looking for hearty, satisfying comfort with little fuss.

I first whipped up this turkey bacon cheeseburger rice stack on a hectic sports night, aiming to deliver maximum cheeseburger flavor fast. The moment my kids tasted those creamy, cheesy, tangy layers, they begged for it again the very next day, proving just how irresistible and satisfying every bite becomes. It’s now our go to weeknight comfort meal, and I love that it brings classic cheeseburger nostalgia with a nutritious twist.

Gather Your Ingredients

• Ground beef (85 to 90 percent lean cheeseburger meat): Delivers signature savory burger flavor and juiciness; choose a blend with some fat for richness, or sub ground turkey for a lighter stack
• Finely chopped onion (yellow or white): Adds sweetness and depth, balancing the meatiness; yellow or white works best for mild flavor, red onion gives extra bite
• Garlic powder: Infuses subtle warmth without raw bite, keeps prep easy and flavor classic
• Salt and black pepper: Essential for enhancing all flavors; sea salt and freshly ground pepper give the best results
• Turkey bacon: Brings smoky crunch and lean protein; cooked pork bacon or veggie bacon work as alternatives
• Cooked white rice (day old, fluffy): Absorbs juices and stays sturdy for stacking; use cold rice for the best texture, sub brown rice or cauliflower rice for more fiber or low carb
• Shredded cheddar cheese (mild or sharp): Melts into gooey topping for true “cheeseburger” effect; pepper jack, mozzarella, or dairy free blends all melt nicely here
• Dill pickles (chopped, cold packed): Add tang and crunch to offset richness; bread and butter pickles or spicy varieties give unique flavor twists
• Ketchup and mustard (classic condiments): Mix for tangy burger sauce; use Dijon or yellow mustard for different flavors, adjust to taste
• Mayonnaise (optional): Makes the sauce creamier, but can be skipped for dairy free needs
• Butter or cooking spray: Greases the casserole dish for easy release and golden bottom, keeps portions neat

How to Make Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Rice Stack

Sauté the Aromatics for Maximum Flavor:

In a large nonstick skillet over medium heat, add ground beef and finely chopped onions. Sprinkle in garlic powder, salt, and black pepper, then stir gently. Cook for 8 to 10 minutes, breaking up the beef, until onions are soft and golden and the beef is no longer pink, developing deep savory burger aroma. Drain excess fat to avoid greasy casserole, ensuring a lighter, flavorful base.

Add Turkey Bacon and Infuse Smokiness:

Stir in cooked, chopped turkey bacon. Let the mixture cook together on low heat for about 3 minutes so bacon flavor infuses and each bite gets crispy, smoky notes. Allow flavors to meld for maximum depth before layering.

Whisk the Creamy Burger Sauce:

In a bowl, whisk together ketchup, mustard, and mayo if desired until smooth and creamy. Taste and tweak for tang or sweetness. This creamy sauce layer joins the stack’s flavors and ensures classic burger taste in each bite.

Prep and Grease Your Baking Dish:

Coat the bottom and sides of a medium casserole dish with a tablespoon of butter or a few sprays of cooking spray. A greased pan helps the rice stack release cleanly and produces a golden, crisp bottom.

Layer the Rice for Structure:

Spoon cooked, cold white rice into the casserole and spread evenly with the back of a spoon, gently pressing to fill corners. The rice absorbs the savory juices above and keeps the stack sturdy for easy serving.

Build the Burger Layer:

Spread the seasoned beef and turkey bacon mixture evenly over the rice so each portion is loaded with meaty, savory, and smoky flavor. Look for pockets of onion and bacon showing through for best texture.

Top with Pickles and Drizzle Sauce:

Sprinkle chopped dill pickles evenly over the beef layer. Drizzle the burger sauce all over so it soaks between layers, adding tangy, creamy taste to every bite.

Blanket in Cheddar Cheese:

Generously scatter a thick layer of shredded cheddar on top to cover the entire casserole. This creates the signature golden, bubbly cheeseburger crust everyone loves. Use sharp cheddar for bold flavor or mild if preferred.

Bake to Bubbling Perfection:

Bake uncovered at 375°F for 15 to 20 minutes until cheese is melted, golden, and bubbling at the edges. Rest the casserole for 5 minutes before slicing so the layers can set, resulting in clean, structured servings. Tent with foil if cheese browns too quickly for a meltier finish.

One of my favorite discoveries is the burst of flavor dill pickles give this casserole—each bite gets a tangy snap that balances the creamy cheese and smoky turkey bacon. Last Thanksgiving, I swapped white rice for brown rice, and my family loved the hearty texture and deep flavor. Every time we serve this, even picky eaters ask for seconds, and I love knowing it packs protein and vitamins they need.

Smart Swaps and Variations

This cheeseburger rice stack is perfect for creative substitutions and diet friendly tweaks. Try ground turkey, chicken, or vegetarian crumbles to switch up the protein. Swap in dairy free cheese or mozzarella for different melt and flavor, or use cauliflower rice for a low carb makeover. To add heat, stir in diced jalapenos or use pepper jack cheese. For gluten free, just check that ketchup and mustard are certified safe—no flour needed in this naturally gluten free casserole.

How to Store and Reheat Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Rice Stack

To store, let your turkey bacon cheeseburger rice stack cool to room temperature, then cover with foil or transfer to airtight containers and refrigerate for up to 4 days. For freezing, wrap cooled slices tightly and place in freezer safe bags or containers for up to 2 months. To reheat, microwave individual portions for 2 to 3 minutes covered, or bake at 350°F until hot and bubbly. Assembling the dish a day in advance makes for simple meal prep and is perfect for parties or weekday lunches.

What to Serve with Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Rice Stack

While this rice stack stands strong as a meal on its own, simple sides complete the experience. A crisp green salad with lemon vinaigrette, roasted veggies like broccoli or green beans, or crunchy baked potato wedges all pair beautifully with the rich cheeseburger flavors. For gatherings, present in a decorative dish and scatter extra pickles or diced tomatoes on top. Serve large slices for family dinners or smaller, tidy squares for potlucks and parties.

Nutritional Benefits

Every serving of turkey bacon cheeseburger rice stack delivers ample protein (25 grams per slice), plus slow digesting carbs from rice for sustained energy. The high quality lean turkey bacon and beef provide important amino acids, while onions and pickles offer vitamins and beneficial fiber. Naturally gluten free and easily adapted for dairy free or low carb plans, this hearty bake is family friendly and nutritionally balanced, keeping you full and fueled.

Recipe Success Tips

For best results, brown beef and onions slowly so you develop sweet, deep flavors. Always use cold or room temperature rice to keep stacking easy and prevent sogginess. Rest the casserole after baking to let cheese set, ensuring slices keep shape. If the cheese browns too fast, tent the dish with foil; for extra crisp, remove foil the last few minutes. Adjust seasonings and sauce to personal taste so every bite suits your family’s preferences.

This turkey bacon cheeseburger rice stack brings the best of burger night to your dinner table with amazing comfort, hearty protein, and easy prep in every bite. Give it a try for weeknight meals or gatherings, and enjoy a satisfying, family friendly twist on a classic favorite.

Common Questions About This Recipe

→ Can I substitute white rice with another grain?

Yes, you can use brown rice or quinoa for a different texture and flavor while keeping the dish hearty.

→ What type of cheese works best?

Cheddar adds classic cheeseburger flavor, but feel free to try Monterey Jack or a blend for variety.

→ Do I need to use turkey bacon?

Turkey bacon adds a lean, smoky touch, but regular bacon or vegetarian bacon can be used as alternatives.

→ How should I store leftovers?

Cover tightly and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave for best results.

→ Can I add extra toppings before serving?

Yes! Shredded lettuce, tomato slices, or a drizzle of extra sauce make great finishing touches.