The Bacon Mac ‘n’ Cheese Burger

If you’re a fan of comfort food, get ready to meet your new favorite indulgence: The Bacon Mac ‘n’ Cheese Burger. This mouthwatering creation combines three beloved dishes—juicy burgers, creamy mac ‘n’ cheese, and crispy bacon—into one epic meal that’s perfect for when you want to treat yourself or impress guests with something truly special. Imagine biting into a perfectly grilled beef patty, topped with a generous scoop of cheesy mac ‘n’ cheese, all crowned with slices of smoky, crispy bacon. The combination of textures and flavors is nothing short of amazing, with each bite offering a satisfying blend of savory, creamy, and crunchy elements. This burger is not just a meal; it’s an experience that brings the best of comfort food to your plate. Whether you’re planning a weekend barbecue or just craving something indulgent for dinner, the Bacon Mac ‘n’ Cheese Burger is sure to hit the spot. Let’s dive into how you can make this delicious dish at home!

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Ingredients

• For the burger:
  • 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend)
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 4 slices cheddar cheese
  • 4 hamburger buns
• For the mac ‘n’ cheese:
  • 8 oz elbow macaroni
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups whole milk
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • Salt and pepper to taste
• For the bacon:
  • 8 slices bacon
• Toppings:
  • 4 leaves lettuce
  • 4 slices tomato
  • Pickles (optional)

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Directions

Step 1: Prepare the Mac ‘n’ Cheese

1. Cook the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until bubbly.
3. Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring constantly until the sauce thickens.
4. Remove from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Add the cooked macaroni to the sauce, stirring to coat. Set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Bacon

1. In a skillet, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy, about 6-8 minutes. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess grease.

Step 3: Prepare the Burger Patties

1. Preheat your grill or skillet to medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, mix the ground beef with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Divide into four equal portions and shape into patties.
3. Cook the patties for 3-4 minutes on each side for medium doneness, or until desired doneness is reached. During the last minute of cooking, place a slice of cheddar cheese on each patty and allow it to melt.

Step 4: Assemble the Burger

1. Toast the hamburger buns on the grill or in a toaster.
2. Place a lettuce leaf on the bottom bun, followed by the beef patty with melted cheese.
3. Add a generous scoop of mac ‘n’ cheese on top of the patty, then place two slices of crispy bacon on top.
4. Add tomato slices, pickles (if using), and the top bun. Serve immediately.

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How to Prepare

Start by making the mac ‘n’ cheese, ensuring it’s creamy and smooth before setting it aside. While the pasta cooks, fry the bacon until it’s crispy and set it on a paper towel to drain. For the burger patties, use a blend of ground beef with seasonings that enhance the flavor without overpowering the mac ‘n’ cheese. Cook the patties on a grill or skillet until they reach your desired level of doneness, topping each with a slice of cheddar cheese. Once everything is ready, quickly assemble the burgers while the components are still warm, ensuring each layer is perfectly placed for that ultimate bite.

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Preparation Time

• Preparation: 20 minutes
• Cooking: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes

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Servings

• Serves: 4

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FAQs

Q1: Can I use a different type of cheese for the mac ‘n’ cheese? A: Yes, you can substitute cheddar with other cheeses like mozzarella, gouda, or pepper jack for a different flavor.

Q2: Can I make the mac ‘n’ cheese ahead of time? A: Absolutely. Prepare the mac ‘n’ cheese up to a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat gently before assembling the burger.

Q3: What type of ground beef should I use? A: An 80/20 blend (80% lean meat, 20% fat) is ideal for juicy, flavorful burgers. If you prefer a leaner option, 85/15 works well too.

Q4: Can I cook the burgers on a stovetop instead of a grill? A: Yes, a skillet or grill pan works perfectly fine. Cook the patties over medium-high heat for a nice sear.

Q5: Are there any additional toppings that go well with this burger? A: You can add caramelized onions, jalapeños, or a fried egg for extra flavor and texture.

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Conclusion

The Bacon Mac ‘n’ Cheese Burger is not just a burger; it’s an explosion of flavors and textures that takes comfort food to a whole new level. Each bite offers the savory goodness of a perfectly cooked beef patty, the creamy richness of mac ‘n’ cheese, and the satisfying crunch of crispy bacon. It’s a dish that combines simplicity with indulgence, making it perfect for any occasion—from casual family dinners to special gatherings with friends. The versatility of this recipe also allows you to customize it to your liking, whether you want to experiment with different cheeses, add extra toppings, or even swap out the beef for a vegetarian patty. So, why not treat yourself and your loved ones to this deliciously decadent burger? Once you try it, it’s sure to become a staple in your comfort food collection!

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