Loaded Bacon Cheeseburger Mac

If you’re craving the perfect marriage between a classic cheeseburger and everyone’s favorite comfort food, mac and cheese, then this Loaded Bacon Cheeseburger Mac is the recipe for you! This dish combines the rich, creamy goodness of macaroni and cheese with the savory flavors of a bacon cheeseburger. With crispy bacon, seasoned beef, and gooey melted cheese, each bite feels like a comforting embrace. Whether you’re making this for a family dinner, a game day meal, or simply a cozy night in, this dish will satisfy even the pickiest eaters. It’s easy to make, with only a handful of ingredients, but it delivers maximum flavor. What makes this dish even better is how customizable it is—you can add your favorite burger toppings, like pickles or caramelized onions, to make it your own. Prepare for rave reviews from whoever you share this comforting meal with!

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Ingredients

• For the Pasta:
  • 12 oz elbow macaroni
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 1/4 cup butter
  • Salt and pepper to taste
• For the Beef Mixture:
  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 2 tbsp ketchup
  • 1 tbsp mustard
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste

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Directions

1. Cook the Macaroni:
   Boil macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Prepare the Beef Mixture:
   In a large skillet, cook diced onion until softened. Add ground beef, season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder, and cook until browned. Drain excess grease. Stir in ketchup and mustard.
3. Make the Cheese Sauce:
   In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add milk, then stir in shredded cheddar cheese until fully melted. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Combine Everything:
   In the same skillet with the beef, add cooked macaroni, cheese sauce, and crumbled bacon. Stir until everything is well combined and coated with cheese.
5. Serve Hot:
   Transfer to bowls and garnish with extra bacon, cheese, or even burger toppings if desired!

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How to Prepare

Begin by boiling the pasta until al dente. While the macaroni is cooking, fry up some crispy bacon and cook the ground beef along with onions for added flavor. Once the beef mixture is ready, prepare a rich cheese sauce in a separate saucepan by melting butter and stirring in cheddar cheese and milk. After the pasta is cooked and drained, combine it with the beef mixture, cheese sauce, and bacon in the skillet. Stir everything together until it’s creamy and well-mixed. Serve immediately for the best flavor.

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Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes

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Servings

Makes 6 servings

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FAQs

1. Can I use other types of cheese?
   Yes, feel free to mix in Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or even a bit of pepper jack for a spicier kick!
2. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
   Absolutely! You can prepare it in advance, store it in the fridge, and reheat it later. Just add a splash of milk when reheating to maintain creaminess.
3. What can I substitute for beef?
   Ground turkey or chicken works well for a lighter option. You can also use plant-based meat alternatives.
4. How do I make this dish gluten-free?
   Substitute the macaroni with gluten-free pasta and ensure the ketchup and mustard are gluten-free.
5. Can I add vegetables?
   Yes, chopped tomatoes, pickles, or even bell peppers can give this dish an extra layer of flavor and texture.

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Conclusion

This Loaded Bacon Cheeseburger Mac is the perfect comfort food for those times when you can’t decide between a cheeseburger or mac and cheese. It’s indulgent, cheesy, and packed with flavor from the ground beef, crispy bacon, and rich cheddar cheese sauce. The combination of textures—crispy bacon, tender pasta, and creamy sauce—makes this dish a hit with kids and adults alike. Plus, it’s so easy to make, you’ll have dinner on the table in just 35 minutes. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or enjoying a cozy night in, this recipe is guaranteed to leave you satisfied. Feel free to get creative with burger-inspired toppings, and enjoy every bite!

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