Burgers are a beloved classic, but when you take it up a notch by stuffing them with creamy mac ‘n’ cheese and crispy bacon, you’ve got a culinary masterpiece on your hands. The Bacon Mac ‘n’ Cheese Stuffed Burger is a dream come true for anyone who loves comfort food. Imagine biting into a juicy, perfectly grilled beef patty, only to find a gooey, cheesy surprise inside. The combination of savory bacon, rich mac ‘n’ cheese, and the robust flavors of the burger create a harmonious blend that is utterly irresistible. Whether you’re planning a weekend cookout, a family dinner, or simply treating yourself, this burger will satisfy even the most demanding taste buds. It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience—a delicious, indulgent, and unforgettable experience that turns an ordinary burger into something extraordinary.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup prepared mac ‘n’ cheese
- 4 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 4 hamburger buns
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon butter (for buns)
- Optional toppings: lettuce, tomato, pickles, onions, ketchup, mustard
Directions
- Prepare the Mac ‘n’ Cheese: Start by making a batch of your favorite mac ‘n’ cheese. If using boxed mac ‘n’ cheese, follow the instructions on the package. Allow it to cool slightly so it’s easier to handle.
- Cook the Bacon: While the mac ‘n’ cheese is cooling, cook the bacon until crispy. Once done, crumble it into small pieces and set aside.
- Make the Burger Patties: Divide the ground beef into 8 equal portions. Flatten each portion into thin patties.
- Stuff the Burgers: Place a spoonful of mac ‘n’ cheese and a sprinkle of bacon and cheddar cheese onto 4 of the patties. Top with another patty and carefully seal the edges to enclose the stuffing.
- Season and Grill: Season both sides of each stuffed patty with salt and pepper. Grill the burgers over medium-high heat for about 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked to your desired level of doneness.
- Toast the Buns: While the burgers are grilling, melt butter in a pan and toast the buns until golden brown.
- Assemble the Burgers: Place the cooked patties on the bottom buns, add any desired toppings, and cover with the top bun.
- Serve: Serve immediately and enjoy the gooey, cheesy goodness!
How to Prepare
Preparing the Bacon Mac ‘n’ Cheese Stuffed Burger involves a few simple but crucial steps. First, cook the mac ‘n’ cheese and bacon in advance. Once cooled, the mac ‘n’ cheese is easier to stuff into the burgers without it spilling out. While the grill heats up, form the patties, ensuring the mac ‘n’ cheese and bacon are securely enclosed. The key is to press the edges of the patties together well, so the filling doesn’t escape during cooking. Grill the burgers over medium-high heat to ensure even cooking and a nice sear. Toasting the buns adds an extra layer of flavor and texture, making the final assembly all the more satisfying.
Preparation Time
- Preparation Time: 20 minutes
- Cooking Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings
- Servings: 4 burgers
FAQs
1. Can I use other types of cheese in the stuffing?
Yes, feel free to experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella, gouda, or pepper jack for a unique twist.
2. Can I make these burgers ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the stuffed patties ahead of time and refrigerate them until ready to grill.
3. What sides go well with this burger?
Classic sides like fries, onion rings, or a fresh salad pair well with this indulgent burger.
4. Can I cook these burgers on the stovetop instead of grilling?
Absolutely! A stovetop skillet works just as well; just ensure the burgers are cooked through.
5. Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?
You can substitute the beef with a plant-based burger patty and use veggie bacon to create a vegetarian version.
Conclusion
The Bacon Mac ‘n’ Cheese Stuffed Burger is the epitome of comfort food innovation. It combines all the elements we love—juicy beef, crispy bacon, and creamy mac ‘n’ cheese—into one extraordinary dish. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a kitchen novice, this recipe is straightforward and guarantees a mouthwatering result. It’s perfect for impressing guests at a cookout or indulging in a treat-yourself meal. With every bite, you’ll experience the delightful contrast of textures and flavors, from the crunchy bacon to the gooey mac ‘n’ cheese, all enveloped in a perfectly grilled patty. Give this recipe a try, and discover a new favorite that’s bound to become a staple in your burger repertoire.
PrintBacon Mac ‘n’ Cheese Stuffed Burger
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 burgers 1x
Description
Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with this Bacon Mac ‘n’ Cheese Stuffed Burger. Juicy beef patties are stuffed with creamy mac ‘n’ cheese and crispy bacon, creating a mouthwatering explosion of flavors with every bite. Perfect for a cookout or a hearty family meal, this burger takes comfort food to a whole new level.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup prepared mac ‘n’ cheese
- 4 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 4 hamburger buns
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon butter (for buns)
- Optional toppings: lettuce, tomato, pickles, onions, ketchup, mustard
Instructions
- Prepare the Mac ‘n’ Cheese: Cook mac ‘n’ cheese according to package instructions. Let it cool slightly.
- Cook the Bacon: Fry the bacon until crispy, then crumble it into small pieces.
- Form Burger Patties: Divide ground beef into 8 equal portions and flatten into thin patties.
- Stuff the Burgers: Place a spoonful of mac ‘n’ cheese, bacon, and cheddar cheese onto 4 patties. Top with another patty and seal the edges.
- Season and Grill: Season both sides of each patty with salt and pepper. Grill over medium-high heat for 5-7 minutes per side.
- Toast the Buns: Melt butter in a pan and toast the buns until golden.
- Assemble the Burgers: Place the cooked patties on buns, add desired toppings, and serve immediately.
Notes
- For extra flavor, try adding a slice of your favorite cheese on top of the patty during the last minute of grilling.
- You can substitute the beef with turkey or plant-based patties for a healthier or vegetarian option.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 burger
- Calories: 650
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 40g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 20g
- Trans Fat: 1g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
Keywords: Bacon Mac ‘n’ Cheese Stuffed Burger, stuffed burger, comfort food, grilling, mac ‘n’ cheese burger