Step-by-step instructions
- Start by preheating your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef with the cooked macaroni noodles, shredded cheddar cheese, and crumbled bacon.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste, then mix everything together until thoroughly combined.
- Divide the mixture into 4 equal portions and shape each portion into a patty.
- Create an indentation in the center of each patty and fill it with additional mac ‘n’ cheese mixture.
- Carefully seal the edges of the patties to enclose the filling, ensuring it doesn’t ooze out while cooking.
- Grill the burgers for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until they reach your desired level of doneness.
- Serve the burgers on hamburger buns and top with your favorite additions like lettuce, tomato, onion, ketchup, and mustard.
Best ways to enjoy it
To create a truly sensational meal, serve these stuffed burgers with crispy fries or a fresh side salad for a balanced plate. Want to get a bit gourmet? You could pair them with homemade coleslaw or grilled vegetables. For a refreshing drink, consider a cold craft beer or a fizzy soda to complement the richness of the burger.
Keeping leftovers fresh
After enjoying your meal, you may have some delicious leftovers. Store any uneaten burgers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can last up to 3 days. If you want to keep them longer, they freeze beautifully! Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap, then in foil, and they can stay in the freezer for up to 3 months. Reheat properly to ensure they’re safe to eat.
Helpful cooking tips
- Use a Meat Thermometer: For perfectly cooked burgers, aim for an internal temperature of 160°F (70°C).
- Don’t Overmix: When combining the ingredients, mix gently to avoid tough patties.
- Resting Time: Let your burgers rest for a couple of minutes after grilling. This helps keep them juicy.
Creative twists
Looking to vary the recipe? Here are a few fun ideas:
- Swap the cheddar cheese for pepper jack for a spicy kick.
- Add jalapeños to the mac and cheese for a bold flavor twist.
- Try turkey burgers instead of beef for a lighter, leaner option.
- Top the burgers with BBQ sauce, fried onions, or a spicy aioli for an elevated taste.
Common questions
Q: How long does it take to prep this recipe?
A: The entire process will take about 30 minutes, including prep and cooking time.
Q: Can I use a different type of cheese?
A: Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with your favorite cheeses, such as gouda, mozzarella, or even a blend.
Q: How do I safely reheat burgers?
A: When reheating, ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure they’re safe to eat.
Q: Is it possible to prep these ahead of time?
A: Yes! You can prepare the patties and store them in the fridge for a few hours or freeze them for later use. Just remember to allow adequate time to thaw if frozen.
With these tips and the delicious recipe provided, you’re all set to wow your family or friends with these over-the-top Bacon Cheddar Macaroni and Cheese Stuffed Burgers. Enjoy every bite!
