There’s something magical about the way food brings people together, especially when it’s served in generous portions and packed with flavor. I vividly remember one summer evening that encapsulated the essence of comfort food. It was a family reunion, and my kitchen was bustling with laughter and the irresistible aroma of grilled delights. I had just introduced my family to a new twist on the classic burger—a Bacon Mac ‘n Cheese Burger—and it became the star of the evening.
The idea for this burger came to me during a memorable road trip across the Midwest. As I ventured through small towns and sampled local fare, I stumbled upon a charming diner that served the most indulgent mac ‘n cheese I’d ever tasted. It wasn’t just creamy; it was a masterpiece of comfort. Inspired, I knew I had to bring this decadence home. Back in my kitchen, I decided to merge that creamy mac ‘n cheese with another favorite: the burger. And thus, the Bacon Mac ‘n Cheese Burger was born.
As I grilled the beef patties, each sizzling on the hot grill, and watched the bacon crisp to perfection, the kitchen was filled with the joyful anticipation of my family. We gathered around the table, each bite of the burger a testament to the blend of rich flavors and heartwarming memories. The pretzel buns provided a delightful contrast to the gooey, cheesy mac ‘n cheese and the crispy bacon, creating a burger that was more than just a meal—it was an experience.
This Bacon Mac ‘n Cheese Burger is not just about combining flavors; it’s about bringing people together and creating moments of joy. Whether you’re planning a casual family dinner, a backyard barbecue, or simply want to indulge in something extraordinary, this burger will not disappoint. With its combination of juicy beef patties, creamy mac ‘n cheese, crispy bacon, and a hint of chipotle ketchup, it’s a crowd-pleaser that will leave everyone asking for seconds.
So gather your loved ones, fire up the grill, and get ready to savor a burger that’s as delicious as it is memorable. Trust me, this Bacon Mac ‘n Cheese Burger is more than just a recipe; it’s a celebration of flavor and togetherness.
Preparing Bacon Mac ‘n Cheese Burger
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Ingredients
- 6 pretzel buns
- 6 beef patties (1/3 lb each)
- 12 slices thick-cut bacon
- 3 cups heavy whipping cream
- 8 oz elbow macaroni
- 4 oz sharp cheddar, grated
- 12 slices American cheese
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1/2 cup roasted diced green chiles
- Garlic and herb seasoning
- Chipotle ketchup
Directions
- Preheat your grill to 400°F and set up for direct grilling.
- Prepare the macaroni as per the package instructions. After draining, toss with a little oil to prevent sticking and set aside.
- In a cast iron skillet, heat the diced green chiles over medium-high heat for about one minute. Add the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer. Reduce the heat to medium.
- Mix the grated cheddar with cornstarch in a bowl. Gradually whisk the cheese into the simmering cream, adding it a handful at a time and ensuring it melts fully before adding more. Once the mixture is smooth, tear up six slices of American cheese and stir them into the sauce. Combine this cheese sauce with the cooked macaroni, seasoning it with garlic and herb seasoning. Keep it warm.
- Cook the bacon until crispy, then set aside on paper towels to drain.
- Season the beef patties with garlic and herb seasoning. Grill the patties until they reach an internal temperature of 155°F. Top each patty with a slice of American cheese, grilling until the cheese is melted. Remove the patties from the grill, cover with foil, and let rest.
- Toast the pretzel buns briefly on the grill until golden brown.
- Assemble the burgers by spreading chipotle ketchup on the bottom half of each bun. Place a grilled patty on each, followed by two slices of bacon, a generous portion of mac ‘n cheese, and the top bun. Serve and enjoy!
Storing Suggestion
To store leftover burgers, separate the mac ‘n cheese and bacon from the patties and buns. Keep each component in airtight containers in the refrigerator. The mac ‘n cheese can be stored for up to 3 days, while the cooked patties and buns are best used within 2 days. Reheat the mac ‘n cheese thoroughly before serving.
Cooking Tips
For an extra crispy bacon, bake it in the oven at 400°F for 15-20 minutes, rather than pan-frying. You can use any type of cheese you prefer in the mac ‘n cheese sauce, but sharp cheddar provides a robust flavor. If you want a spicier kick, increase the amount of diced green chiles or add a dash of hot sauce to the cheese sauce.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these burgers with a side of crispy fries or a fresh salad. Consider adding pickles or onions to enhance the flavors. A cold, tangy coleslaw pairs well with the rich mac ‘n cheese burger. For drinks, try a cold craft beer or a fizzy soda.
Ingredient Substitutions
Instead of pretzel buns, you can use regular hamburger buns or brioche buns. For a lighter version, substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk. You can also replace sharp cheddar with a milder cheese like Monterey Jack.
Seasonal Variations
In the fall, you can incorporate roasted butternut squash into the mac ‘n cheese for a seasonal twist. During summer, try using fresh herbs or even adding grilled vegetables to the mac ‘n cheese for a lighter, more vibrant flavor.
Allergen Information
This recipe contains dairy and gluten. To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free pretzel buns and ensure the bacon and cheese are free from gluten-containing additives. For a dairy-free version, use non-dairy milk and cheese alternatives, and omit the heavy cream.
FAQ:
How can I make the mac ‘n cheese sauce smoother?
Ensure you whisk the cheese into the simmering cream gradually and thoroughly melt each batch of cheese before adding more. Using cornstarch helps achieve a smooth consistency.
Can I prepare the mac ‘n cheese in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the mac ‘n cheese ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat it gently on the stove, adding a splash of milk if needed to restore its creamy texture.
What can I use instead of pretzel buns?
If you don’t have pretzel buns, you can use regular hamburger buns, brioche buns, or even sandwich rolls as a substitute.
Can I freeze the cooked patties?
Yes, you can freeze the cooked beef patties. Place them in an airtight container or freezer bag and store them for up to 3 months. Reheat thoroughly before serving.
How do I make this recipe spicier?
To add more heat, increase the amount of diced green chiles or mix in some hot sauce to the mac ‘n cheese. You can also add spicy seasoning to the burger patties.
What are some good side dishes to serve with this burger?
Consider pairing the burger with classic sides like French fries, sweet potato fries, or a crisp garden salad. Pickles and onion rings also complement the rich flavors of the burger.
Bacon Mac 'n Cheese Burger
Ingredients
- 6 pretzel buns
- 6 beef patties 1/3 lb each
- 12 slices thick-cut bacon
- 3 cups heavy whipping cream
- 8 oz elbow macaroni
- 4 oz sharp cheddar grated
- 12 slices American cheese
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1/2 cup roasted diced green chiles
- Garlic and herb seasoning
- Chipotle ketchup
Instructions
- Heat your grill to 400°F, setting it up for direct grilling.
- Cook the macaroni according to package directions. After draining, lightly coat the pasta with oil to prevent sticking. Set aside.
- In a cast iron skillet, heat the diced green chiles over medium-high heat for about a minute. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Lower the heat to medium.
- In a bowl, toss the grated cheddar with the cornstarch. Gradually whisk the cheese into the simmering cream, a handful at a time, allowing each batch to melt before adding more. Once smooth, tear up six slices of American cheese and stir them into the sauce. Mix the cheese sauce with the cooked macaroni, seasoning it with garlic and herb seasoning. Keep warm.
- Cook the bacon until crispy, then set it aside.
- Season the burger patties with garlic and herb seasoning. Grill the patties until they reach an internal temperature of 155°F. Add a slice of American cheese to each patty, grilling just long enough to melt the cheese. Remove the patties from the grill, cover with foil, and set aside.
- Briefly toast the buns on the grill until they’re golden brown.
- Assemble the burgers: Spread chipotle ketchup on the bottom half of each bun. Place the grilled patty on top, followed by two slices of bacon, a generous scoop of the mac 'n cheese, and the top bun. Enjoy your decadent creation!
