Bacon Mac ‘n’ Cheese Stuffed Burger

Imagine biting into a burger that combines all your favorite comfort foods in one delicious package. That’s what the Bacon Mac ‘n’ Cheese Stuffed Burger is all about. This indulgent creation takes a classic burger to the next level by stuffing it with creamy, gooey mac ‘n’ cheese and adding crispy bacon for an extra layer of flavor and texture. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue, celebrating a special occasion, or just treating yourself, this burger will surely impress. The rich blend of savory beef, melty cheese, and smoky bacon is a flavor combination that’s hard to beat. Plus, the mac ‘n’ cheese stuffing adds a fun twist that makes this burger both unique and irresistible. Get ready to take your burger game to new heights with this mouthwatering recipe that’s perfect for any burger lover. Let’s dive into how you can create this culinary masterpiece in your own kitchen.

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Ingredients

For the mac ‘n’ cheese stuffing:

• 1 cup elbow macaroni
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the burgers:

• 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 8 slices bacon, cooked until crispy
• 4 hamburger buns
• Lettuce, tomato, and pickles for serving (optional)

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Directions

1. Make the Mac ‘n’ Cheese:
   Cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and set aside. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for about 1 minute, until bubbly. Slowly pour in the milk, whisking continuously until the mixture thickens. Remove from heat, then stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until fully melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Set the mac ‘n’ cheese aside to cool slightly.
2. Prepare the Burger Patties:
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Divide the mixture into 8 equal portions and shape them into thin patties. Place a spoonful of the cooled mac ‘n’ cheese in the center of 4 patties. Place the remaining patties on top, sealing the edges well to enclose the mac ‘n’ cheese.
3. Cook the Burgers:
   Preheat your grill or skillet to medium-high heat. Cook the burgers for 5-6 minutes on each side, or until the beef is cooked through and the cheese stuffing is hot and melty. During the last minute of cooking, place a slice of crispy bacon on top of each burger.
4. Assemble the Burgers:
   Toast the hamburger buns on the grill or in a toaster. Place a lettuce leaf on the bottom bun, followed by the stuffed burger patty. Add slices of tomato and pickles, if desired, then top with the other half of the bun. Serve immediately.

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How to Prepare

This recipe requires some preparation, but the results are well worth the effort. Start by making the mac ‘n’ cheese filling ahead of time, so it has time to cool before you stuff the burgers. When shaping the patties, be sure to press the edges firmly to prevent the cheese from leaking out during cooking. Use a grill or skillet to cook the burgers, being careful not to overcook the beef to keep it juicy and flavorful. Finally, assemble the burgers with your favorite toppings and enjoy!

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Preparation Time

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes

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Servings

This recipe makes 4 Bacon Mac ‘n’ Cheese Stuffed Burgers.

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FAQs

1. Can I use store-bought mac ‘n’ cheese for the stuffing?
   Yes, you can use store-bought mac ‘n’ cheese if you’re short on time. Just make sure it’s thick enough to hold together inside the burger.
2. What type of beef is best for this recipe?
   An 80/20 blend of ground beef (80% lean, 20% fat) is ideal for juicy, flavorful burgers.
3. Can I make these burgers ahead of time?
   You can prepare the patties in advance and refrigerate them until ready to cook. However, they’re best cooked and served fresh.
4. What other cheeses can I use for the stuffing?
   You can substitute cheddar with other cheeses like mozzarella, gouda, or a mix of cheeses for a different flavor profile.
5. Can I cook these burgers in the oven?
   Yes, you can bake the burgers in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through.

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Conclusion

The Bacon Mac ‘n’ Cheese Stuffed Burger is a burger lover’s dream come true. It’s a fusion of two comfort food favorites: a juicy burger and creamy mac ‘n’ cheese, all wrapped up in one delicious bite. The crispy bacon adds a satisfying crunch, while the mac ‘n’ cheese stuffing brings an unexpected creamy texture that will leave you wanting more. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or just want to treat yourself to something extraordinary, this burger is sure to impress. It’s indulgent, flavorful, and fun to make, making it a great choice for your next cookout or family dinner. With this recipe, you can bring restaurant-quality flavors to your own kitchen and enjoy the best of both worlds in one incredible dish.

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