If you’re a fan of comfort food, then the Mac ‘n’ Cheese Bacon Patty Melt is about to become your new favorite indulgence. This dish is the ultimate fusion of two classic comfort foods: the gooey, creamy delight of macaroni and cheese and the savory, juicy satisfaction of a bacon cheeseburger. Imagine biting into a perfectly grilled sandwich filled with a juicy beef patty, crispy bacon, and a generous layer of homemade mac ‘n’ cheese, all encased in golden, buttery toast. It’s a flavor explosion that combines the best of both worlds—rich, cheesy goodness with the smoky, meaty flavor of a patty melt. Whether you’re looking to impress at your next cookout, or simply want to treat yourself to something truly decadent, this Mac ‘n’ Cheese Bacon Patty Melt is sure to hit the spot. It’s a meal that’s satisfying, comforting, and over-the-top in the best possible way. Perfect for lunch, dinner, or a special weekend treat, this recipe is easy to make and even easier to love.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 8 slices of bacon, cooked
- 2 cups cooked macaroni and cheese
- 8 slices of sourdough or rye bread
- 4 tablespoons butter, softened
- 8 slices cheddar cheese
- Optional: 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder for seasoning the patties
- Optional: Sliced pickles or caramelized onions for extra flavor
Directions
- Season the ground beef with salt, pepper, and garlic powder if using. Form the beef into four equal-sized patties.
- Preheat a skillet or grill over medium-high heat. Cook the patties for about 4-5 minutes on each side until they reach your desired level of doneness. Remove from heat and set aside.
- In the same skillet, lightly butter one side of each slice of bread. Place four slices, buttered side down, on a clean surface.
- Layer the ingredients on the bread: start with a slice of cheddar cheese, then add a beef patty, a generous spoonful of mac ‘n’ cheese, two slices of bacon, and another slice of cheddar cheese. Top with the remaining slices of bread, buttered side up.
- Cook the sandwiches in the skillet over medium heat, pressing down gently with a spatula. Cook until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted, about 3-4 minutes per side.
- Remove from the skillet and let the sandwiches rest for a minute before slicing them in half.
- Serve immediately with your favorite sides like fries, a salad, or pickles.
How to Prepare
Start by seasoning the ground beef and forming it into patties. Cook the patties in a skillet or on a grill until they are perfectly juicy and flavorful. Meanwhile, prepare your bread by buttering each slice. Once the patties are done, layer them on the bread with cheddar cheese, crispy bacon, and a hearty scoop of mac ‘n’ cheese. Grill the sandwiches until the bread is golden and crispy and the cheese is perfectly melted. Let them rest briefly before serving, ensuring every bite is as delicious as the last.
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings
This recipe serves 4 people.
FAQs
Q1: Can I use store-bought mac ‘n’ cheese?
A1: Yes, store-bought mac ‘n’ cheese works perfectly for this recipe if you’re short on time. However, homemade mac ‘n’ cheese will give you a richer, creamier result.
Q2: What kind of bread is best for this sandwich?
A2: Sourdough or rye bread is recommended for its sturdy texture and flavor. However, any thick-sliced bread will work.
Q3: Can I add other toppings to the patty melt?
A3: Absolutely! Feel free to add caramelized onions, pickles, or even a slice of tomato for extra flavor.
Q4: How do I keep the sandwich from getting soggy?
A4: Make sure your mac ‘n’ cheese isn’t too wet, and press the sandwiches gently while grilling to keep everything together.
Q5: Can I make this sandwich ahead of time?
A5: While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the patties and mac ‘n’ cheese ahead of time. Assemble and grill the sandwiches just before serving.
Conclusion
The Mac ‘n’ Cheese Bacon Patty Melt is a decadent treat that brings together all the best elements of comfort food into one epic sandwich. The combination of juicy beef, crispy bacon, creamy mac ‘n’ cheese, and melted cheddar between two slices of buttery, toasted bread is nothing short of magical. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or just want to indulge in something truly satisfying, this patty melt is sure to become a favorite. With its rich flavors and satisfying textures, it’s more than just a meal—it’s an experience. Give it a try, and savor the delicious fusion of flavors that this ultimate comfort food offers. Enjoy every bite!
PrintMac ‘n’ Cheese Bacon Patty Melt
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
The Mac ‘n’ Cheese Bacon Patty Melt is the ultimate comfort food fusion. This decadent sandwich combines a juicy beef patty with creamy mac ‘n’ cheese and crispy bacon, all nestled between buttery, toasted bread. It’s a rich and satisfying meal that takes your taste buds on a journey, combining the best of a classic patty melt with the creamy, cheesy goodness of mac ‘n’ cheese. Perfect for a special occasion or a weekend treat, this dish is easy to make and packed with flavor.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 8 slices of bacon, cooked
- 2 cups cooked macaroni and cheese
- 8 slices sourdough or rye bread
- 4 tablespoons butter, softened
- 8 slices cheddar cheese
- Optional: 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Optional: Sliced pickles or caramelized onions
Instructions
- Season ground beef with salt, pepper, and garlic powder if using. Form into four patties.
- Cook patties in a skillet or on a grill over medium-high heat for 4-5 minutes per side until cooked through. Set aside.
- Butter one side of each slice of bread. Place four slices, buttered side down, on a clean surface.
- Layer each with cheddar cheese, a beef patty, mac ‘n’ cheese, bacon, and another slice of cheddar cheese. Top with the remaining bread slices, buttered side up.
- Grill the sandwiches in the skillet over medium heat, pressing gently with a spatula, until golden brown and cheese is melted, about 3-4 minutes per side.
- Let the sandwiches rest for a minute before slicing in half and serving.
Notes
- Add jalapeños for a spicy kick.
- Serve with fries, salad, or pickles for a complete meal.
- Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 sandwich
- Calories: 800 kcal
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 1200mg
- Fat: 55g
- Saturated Fat: 25g
- Unsaturated Fat: 25g
- Trans Fat: 1g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
Keywords: Mac ‘n’ Cheese, Bacon, Patty Melt, Comfort Food