If you’re a fan of indulgent comfort food, then the Bacon Mac ‘n’ Cheese Burger is a must-try recipe that combines two of the most beloved dishes into one mouthwatering masterpiece. Imagine a juicy, flavorful burger topped with creamy, cheesy mac ‘n’ cheese and crispy bacon, all nestled between two soft buns. This burger is not just a meal; it’s an experience.
The Bacon Mac ‘n’ Cheese Burger is the ultimate treat for burger lovers who enjoy pushing the boundaries of traditional recipes. Combining the creamy comfort of mac ‘n’ cheese with the savory crunch of bacon and the hearty satisfaction of a well-cooked burger, this recipe is sure to be a hit at your next cookout or family dinner. Give it a try and enjoy the delightful fusion of flavors!
Here’s how to make this incredible dish at home.
Ingredients
For the Burger:
- 1 lb ground beef (preferably 80% lean)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 4 slices of cheddar cheese
- 4 brioche or hamburger buns
- Butter for toasting buns
For the Mac ‘n’ Cheese:
- 1 cup elbow macaroni
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Bacon:
- 8 slices of bacon, cooked to your preference (crispy or slightly chewy)
INSTRUCTIONS:
Step 1: Prepare the Mac ‘n’ Cheese
- Cook the pasta: Start by cooking the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions. Once al dente, drain and set aside.
- Make the cheese sauce: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour to create a roux, cooking for about 1-2 minutes until it’s slightly golden.
- Add the milk: Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens. This should take about 3-4 minutes.
- Add the cheese: Once the sauce has thickened, remove the pan from the heat and stir in the shredded cheddar and mozzarella until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Combine: Stir the cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce until fully coated. Set aside to cool slightly, allowing the sauce to thicken.
Step 2: Cook the Bacon
- Fry the bacon: While the mac ‘n’ cheese cools, cook the bacon in a large skillet over medium heat until it reaches your desired level of crispiness. Drain on paper towels and set aside.
Step 3: Prepare the Burgers
- Season the beef: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Gently mix until the seasonings are evenly distributed.
- Form patties: Divide the seasoned beef into four equal portions and shape them into patties that are slightly larger than your buns (they will shrink slightly as they cook).
- Cook the patties: Heat a grill or skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the patties for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until they reach your preferred doneness. During the last minute of cooking, place a slice of cheddar cheese on each patty to melt.
Step 4: Assemble the Burgers
- Toast the buns: Lightly butter the inside of each bun and toast them on the grill or in a skillet until golden brown.
- Build the burger: Place a cheese-topped patty on the bottom half of each bun. Top each patty with a generous scoop of mac ‘n’ cheese, followed by two slices of bacon. Finish with the top half of the bun.
- Serve: Serve the burgers immediately, with any remaining mac ‘n’ cheese on the side.
Tips for the Perfect Bacon Mac ‘n’ Cheese Burger
- Use freshly shredded cheese: Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can prevent a smooth, creamy sauce. Shredding your own cheese will result in a better texture and flavor.
- Season the beef generously: Don’t be afraid to add a bit more seasoning to your beef patties, as the robust flavors will balance well with the richness of the mac ‘n’ cheese and bacon.
- Try different cheeses: For a different twist, you can experiment with other cheeses like gouda, pepper jack, or gruyere in your mac ‘n’ cheese.
- Add toppings: While this burger is already a flavor bomb, feel free to add extras like caramelized onions, pickles, or a drizzle of barbecue sauce for even more deliciousness.