Remember those Friday nights growing up, when the smell of burgers grilling filled the air? This Cheesy Bacon Mac ‘n’ Cheese Burger recipe takes those nostalgic vibes and cranks them up to eleven! It’s ridiculously easy to make, unbelievably delicious, and guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. Get ready to experience burger bliss!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Fast – Ready in under 30 minutes!
- Easy – Simple steps even a beginner can master.
- Giftable – (Okay, maybe not literally giftable as a pre-made burger, but this recipe is perfect for impressing your friends and family!)
- Crowd-pleasing – Everyone loves a good burger, and this one is next-level amazing.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef (I prefer 80/20 for the best flavor and juiciness)
- 1/2 cup bread crumbs (plain works perfectly)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup cooked macaroni noodles (elbow macaroni is classic, but you can get creative!)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (sharp cheddar is my personal fave, but any kind will do)
- 1/2 cup cooked crumbled bacon (crispy bacon is a must!)
- 1/2 cup milk (whole milk adds richness)
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 tablespoon flour (all-purpose is fine)
- Hamburger buns (sesame seed buns are always a winner!)
- Additional shredded cheddar cheese and crumbled bacon (for topping – because more is always better!)
How to Make It
Let’s get cooking! This recipe is so simple, you’ll be amazed.
- In a large bowl, gently combine the ground beef, bread crumbs, salt, and pepper. Don’t overmix – just until it’s combined. Form the mixture into four equal-sized patties.
- Grill the patties for 4-5 minutes per side, or until cooked through. You can also pan-fry them if you don’t have a grill. I like to add a little olive oil to the pan before cooking for better browning.
- While the patties are grilling, melt the butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for about 1 minute, stirring constantly. Gradually whisk in the milk until the sauce thickens. This is your creamy cheese sauce base!
- Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, cooked macaroni, and bacon until the cheese is melted and everything is well combined.
- Place a patty on each bun bottom. Top with a generous spoonful of the mac ‘n’ cheese mixture, then sprinkle with extra cheese and bacon for good measure. Add the bun tops and get ready to dig in!
- Serve immediately. These are best enjoyed fresh off the grill (or stovetop).
Substitutions & Additions
Feel free to get creative! Here are a few ideas:
- Cheese Swap: Try pepper jack, Monterey Jack, or a blend of cheeses.
- Spice it Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some chopped jalapeños to the mac ‘n’ cheese mixture for a kick.
- Veggie Boost: Sautéed mushrooms or caramelized onions would be delicious additions to the burger.
- Gourmet Bacon: Maple bacon or peppered bacon would elevate the flavor profile.
Tips for Success
- Don’t overwork the burger patties – gently mix the ingredients. Overmixing can lead to tough burgers.
- Make sure your bacon is cooked until crispy before crumbling it. Soggy bacon is a burger crime!
- Prep ahead: You can cook the bacon and macaroni noodles in advance to save time.
How to Store It
Leftovers (if there are any!) should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a pan or microwave.
FAQs
- Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time? A: You can prep the patties and the mac and cheese separately, then assemble and cook right before serving for the best results.
- Q: Can I bake these burgers instead of grilling them? A: Absolutely! Bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through.
- Q: What kind of macaroni is best? A: Elbow macaroni is traditional, but any small pasta shape will work.
- Q: Can I freeze these burgers? A: I wouldn’t recommend freezing the assembled burgers, but you can freeze the cooked patties and the mac and cheese separately.
Cheesy Bacon Mac 'n' Cheese Burger
This Cheesy Bacon Mac 'n' Cheese Burger recipe takes nostalgic burger vibes and cranks them up to eleven! It’s ridiculously easy to make, unbelievably delicious, and guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large bowl, gently combine the ground beef, bread crumbs, salt, and pepper. Don't overmix – just until it's combined. Form the mixture into four equal-sized patties.
- Grill the patties for 4-5 minutes per side, or until cooked through. You can also pan-fry them if you don't have a grill. I like to add a little olive oil to the pan before cooking for better browning.
- While the patties are grilling, melt the butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for about 1 minute, stirring constantly. Gradually whisk in the milk until the sauce thickens. This is your creamy cheese sauce base!
- Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, cooked macaroni, and bacon until the cheese is melted and everything is well combined.
- Place a patty on each bun bottom. Top with a generous spoonful of the mac 'n' cheese mixture, then sprinkle with extra cheese and bacon for good measure. Add the bun tops and get ready to dig in!
- Serve immediately. These are best enjoyed fresh off the grill (or stovetop).
Notes
Feel free to get creative! Try different cheeses, add spices, sautéed mushrooms, or caramelized onions. Don't overwork the burger patties, ensure crispy bacon, and prep ahead if possible.
