Step-by-step instructions
Here’s how to prepare your delicious Cheesy Bacon Mac Burger Stuffed Onion Rings:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, cooked macaroni, crumbled bacon, shredded cheddar cheese, diced onion, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until everything is well combined.
- Take one thick onion ring and fill it with the beef mixture, pressing it down firmly to pack it.
- Continue filling the remaining onion rings with the mixture.
- Set up a dredging station with three shallow bowls: one with flour, another with beaten eggs, and a third with breadcrumbs.
- Dip each stuffed onion ring in flour, then coat it in the beaten eggs, and finally roll it in the breadcrumbs for an even coating.
- Heat oil in a deep fryer or large pot to 350°F.
- Gently lower the stuffed onion rings into the hot oil. Fry them until they’re golden brown and cooked through, which should take approximately 4-5 minutes.
- Carefully remove the rings from the oil and drain them on a paper towel-lined plate.
- Serve the stuffed onion rings hot, paired with your favorite dipping sauces, and enjoy!
Best ways to enjoy it
To really amp up your serving game, consider plating these Cheesy Bacon Mac Burger Stuffed Onion Rings creatively. For a rustic feel, stack them on a wooden board with a variety of dipping sauces, such as ranch, BBQ, or a spicy aioli. They also pair nicely with a simple arugula salad or coleslaw on the side, bringing a fresh contrast to the richness of the rings. For a true feast, boost the fun with extra sides like loaded nachos or crispy French fries!
Storage and reheating tips
If you end up with leftovers — although they’re sure to be devoured quickly — store the cooled onion rings in an airtight container in the fridge. They remain fresh for about 2-3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, a quick reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes will revive their crispy texture. Just be sure to keep food safety in mind and avoid letting them sit out at room temperature for more than a couple of hours.
Pro chef tips
For a perfect frying experience, be sure to maintain the oil temperature throughout the cooking process. If it’s too hot, the outside will burn before the inside is cooked; too cool, and you’ll just end up with soggy rings. Using a deep-fry thermometer can help in achieving and maintaining an ideal frying temperature. Also, don’t overcrowd the pot; frying in batches will yield better results.
Creative twists
Looking to switch things up? There are countless variations to try! Replace the ground beef with shredded chicken or turkey for a lighter option. For those who like a bit of heat, add jalapeños or sriracha to the mixture. You can even experiment with different cheese choices like pepper jack for a spicy kick or mozzarella for a gooey, melted interior. Consider topping with different spices and herbs post-fry for a unique flavor experience every time.
Common questions
What is the prep time for these onion rings?
Prep time should be around 20-30 minutes. The cooking process adds another 10-15 minutes depending on how many you are frying at once.
Can I make these in advance?
Yes! You can prepare the stuffed onion rings ahead of time – simply freeze them before frying. When you’re ready to cook, there’s no need to thaw — just fry them straight from frozen, adjusting the cooking time slightly as needed.
What dipping sauces go well with these onion rings?
They’re delicious with classic ranch, zesty BBQ, creamy blue cheese, or even spicy mustard. Feel free to get creative with your dipping sauces to match your taste preferences!
With the right balance of crispy, cheesy, and meaty goodness, these Cheesy Bacon Mac Burger Stuffed Onion Rings will surely be a hit at your next gathering. Don’t hesitate to relish in this savory indulgence!
