Step-by-Step Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, combine the ground beef with salt and pepper. Make sure it’s well-seasoned, then divide and shape the mixture into 8 thin patties.
- Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and cook the patties until they’re beautifully browned and cooked through, about 4-5 minutes per side.
- While your patties are cooking, take another skillet and heat the cooked macaroni with the cheddar cheese until it’s nicely melted and creamy.
- In the same skillet or another, lightly toast the hamburger buns until they reach a golden brown hue.
- Begin assembling your burgers: Place one patty on the bottom bun, add a generous spoonful of macaroni and cheese, sprinkle some crumbled bacon, top it with a second patty, and layer on more macaroni and cheese and bacon before adding the top bun.
- In a small bowl, mix together the BBQ sauce and ranch dressing. Drizzle this indulgent sauce over your burgers right before serving.
- Dive into this decadent creation and enjoy every savory bite!
Best Ways to Enjoy It
Serving these burgers is all about making it fun! Position your Double-Decker Bacon Mac & Cheese Smash Burger alongside a heaping pile of sweet potato fries or a fresh coleslaw for a delightful crunch. You could even serve them with pickle spears or crispy onion rings on the side. Don’t forget a food truck-style atmosphere: paper towels and napkins are must-haves for this messy yet satisfying meal.
Keeping Leftovers Fresh
If you find yourself with leftovers — which is a rare occurrence with these burgers — it’s essential to store them properly. First, allow the burgers to cool completely before wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap or placing them in an airtight container. They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. If you’re looking to keep them longer, consider freezing the patties separately in a single layer before transferring to a freezer bag. Just remember to consume them within three months for optimal freshness!
Helpful Cooking Tips
Here are a few tips to elevate your burger-making game even further:
- Choose high-fat ground beef for juicier patties. An 80/20 blend (80% lean, 20% fat) is perfect.
- For extra flavor, consider adding garlic powder or onion powder to the beef mixture.
- If you want to amp up the crunch factor, try frying your bacon until it’s extra crispy before adding it as a topping.
- For a spicy kick, mix some sriracha into your BBQ ranch sauce or add jalapeños to the macaroni.
Creative Twists
Want to put your own twist on this burger? Here are some fun adaptations:
- Swap out the beef for ground turkey or even a plant-based burger to cater to your dietary preferences.
- Experiment with different cheeses! A sharp gouda or a pepper jack would bring a whole new flavor profile.
- For a barbecue flair, top the burger with pulled pork or beef brisket.
- Want a fresh take? Add slices of avocado or fresh jalapeños for an added layer of taste and texture.
Common Questions
What’s the prep time for this burger?
This recipe usually takes about 15-20 minutes to prep, while the cooking itself can take an additional 15-20 minutes, so you can have this meal ready in less than an hour.
Can I substitute the macaroni?
Absolutely! You can swap the macaroni for other pasta shapes like penne or elbow, depending on your preference. Gluten-free pasta works well too!
Is this recipe freezing-friendly?
Yes! Cooked beef patties can be frozen. Just make sure they’re cooled down before freezing to maintain quality. Reheat them in a skillet or the microwave for a quick meal.
Now, it’s time to grab your ingredients and get cooking. Your taste buds deserve an adventure, and this burger is just the ticket!
