1. Cook the Mac ‘n’ Cheese
Begin by cooking the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
In the same pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the milk, shredded cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, and garlic powder. Continue stirring until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth.
Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce, stirring until the pasta is evenly coated. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Remove from heat and set aside.
2. Prepare the Bacon
While the mac ‘n’ cheese is cooling, cook the bacon until crispy. You can fry it in a pan over medium heat, bake it in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 15 minutes, or cook it in an air fryer. Once done, drain the bacon on a paper towel-lined plate and set aside.
3. Form and Cook the Burger Patties
Divide the ground beef into four equal portions and shape them into patties, slightly larger than your buns to allow for shrinkage during cooking. Season both sides of each patty with salt and pepper.
Heat a grill or skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the burger patties for about 4-5 minutes per side, depending on your desired level of doneness. In the last minute of cooking, place a slice of cheddar cheese on each patty, allowing it to melt.
4. Toast the Buns
While the burgers are cooking, butter the cut sides of the brioche buns. Toast them on the grill or in a skillet until golden brown and crisp.
5. Assemble the Burgers
To assemble your Bacon Mac ‘n’ Cheese Burgers, start by spreading a layer of the special sauce (if using) on the bottom half of each toasted bun. Add a leaf of lettuce and a slice of tomato, if desired.
Place the cooked burger patty with melted cheese on top of the lettuce. Add two slices of crispy bacon on top of the patty.
Now, take a generous scoop of the mac ‘n’ cheese and place it on top of the bacon. You can even add another slice of cheddar cheese for extra gooeyness.
Finally, top with the other half of the bun. Secure the burger with a toothpick if needed, and serve immediately.
Serving Suggestions
These Bacon Mac ‘n’ Cheese Burgers are rich and indulgent, so serve them with lighter sides like a crisp green salad, coleslaw, or some simple grilled vegetables. If you’re in the mood for more indulgence, pair them with classic sides like fries, onion rings, or a creamy potato salad.
Tips for the Perfect Bacon Mac ‘n’ Cheese Burger
- Make-Ahead: You can prepare the mac ‘n’ cheese ahead of time and refrigerate it until you’re ready to assemble the burgers. Just reheat it gently on the stove with a splash of milk.
- Cheese Options: Feel free to mix up the cheeses in your mac ‘n’ cheese. Gouda, Monterey Jack, or even a little blue cheese can add an extra layer of flavor.
- Patty Perfection: For the juiciest burgers, avoid pressing down on the patties with a spatula while cooking, as this squeezes out the juices.
- Sauce It Up: The special sauce adds a nice tangy element, but you can also use barbecue sauce, ranch dressing, or even a spicy aioli.
Conclusion
The Bacon Mac ‘n’ Cheese Burger is the ultimate comfort food mashup, combining all the best elements of a classic cheeseburger and creamy mac ‘n’ cheese. Whether you’re making these for a special occasion or just because, they’re sure to impress anyone who takes a bite.
So, gather your ingredients, fire up the grill, and get ready to indulge in one of the most epic burgers you’ve ever tasted. This recipe is a surefire way to make any day feel special!
Did you try this recipe? Share your thoughts and any creative twists in the comments below!