Step-by-step instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F.
- Mix it up: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, cooked macaroni, cheddar cheese, crumbled bacon, diced onion, and season with salt and pepper. Ensure everything is mixed well.
- Form the patties: Take a small handful of the mixture and shape it into patties. Repeat until all the mixture is formed.
- Flatten each patty slightly to make them easier to wrap.
- Prepare the dough: Flatten out a piece of biscuit dough and place a patty in the center. Wrap the dough around the patty, sealing it completely.
- Repeat until all your patties are wrapped.
- Boil the pretzels: In a large pot, bring water to a boil and add the baking soda. Boil each pretzel ring for about 30 seconds, then remove and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Brush and season: Brush each pretzel ring with the beaten egg and sprinkle with pretzel salt.
- Bake: Place in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Serve these warm for a delightful treat!
Best ways to enjoy it
Cheesy Bacon Mac Burger Stuffed Pretzel Rings are already a complete dish, but you can elevate your presentation with a few simple tips. Serve them on a wooden platter with a side of ranch or spicy mustard for dipping. Pair them with a fresh salad for a little crunch or some crispy sweet potato fries for that ultimate comfort food experience.
Storage and reheating tips
If you have leftovers (though we doubt it!), you can store these pretzel rings in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes until heated through. Freezing is also an option: wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can last in the freezer for up to 3 months. Just be sure to reheat thoroughly before enjoying!
Helpful cooking tips
Here are some tips to make your cooking experience smoother and your dish even tastier:
- Don’t overmix: When combining your meat with other ingredients, a gentle mix is crucial to keeping the patties tender.
- Baking soda bath: This step is key for achieving that beautiful pretzel-like texture. Make sure the water is boiling before adding the pretzel rings.
- Experiment with fillings: Feel free to play around with different cheeses or even add crispy jalapeños for an added kick!
Creative twists
Looking to mix things up? Here are some variations to consider:
- Cheese variety: Swap out cheddar for mozzarella or pepper jack for a creamy bite.
- Protein subs: Try ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option, or go vegetarian with plant-based beef alternatives.
- Add toppings: Consider adding jalapeños, or switching up the pretzel salt to an everything bagel seasoning for a unique flavor profile.
FAQ
What is the prep time for this recipe?
Preparation takes around 30 minutes, with an additional 20 minutes for cooking.
Can I use whole wheat biscuit dough instead?
Absolutely! Whole wheat biscuit dough would work well and add a bit of nuttiness.
How do I know when the burger patties are cooked thoroughly?
A meat thermometer should read 160°F to ensure they’re safe to eat.
Getting your hands messy while creating Cheesy Bacon Mac Burger Stuffed Pretzel Rings is half the fun! Enjoy the process and the delicious outcome!
