**Bacon Mac ‘n’ Cheese Burger**
**Ingredients:**
**For the Burger Patties:**
– 1 lb (450g) ground beef (preferably 80/20 for juiciness)
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (panko for extra crunch)
– 1 egg
– 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp onion powder
– 1 tsp smoked paprika (optional, for a smoky flavor)
– Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
**For the Mac ‘n’ Cheese:**
– 2 cups elbow macaroni
– 2 tbsp butter
– 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
– 1 cup milk (whole milk for creaminess)
– 1/2 cup heavy cream (for a richer sauce)
– 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 tsp ground mustard (optional, for depth)
– Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
**For Assembly:**
– 4 hamburger buns (brioche buns recommended for a soft and rich texture)
– 4 slices of thick-cut bacon, cooked until crispy
– Lettuce leaves
– Tomato slices
– Pickles (optional)
– Caramelized onions (optional, for added sweetness)
– Ketchup and mustard (optional)
– Butter (for toasting buns)
**Instructions:**
**1. Prepare the Mac ‘n’ Cheese:**
– Cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
– In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, whisking constantly to form a smooth roux.
– Gradually whisk in the milk and heavy cream, continuing to cook and stir until the sauce thickens and becomes smooth.
– Remove the sauce from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses until melted and creamy.
– Season with ground mustard, salt, and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
– Fold in the cooked macaroni and set aside. Keep the mac ‘n’ cheese warm on low heat, stirring occasionally.
**2. Prepare the Burger Patties:**
– In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, shredded cheddar cheese, breadcrumbs, egg, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika (if using), salt, and freshly ground black pepper.
– Mix until just combined, being careful not to overwork the meat.
– Divide the mixture into 4 equal portions and shape each into a patty, making a slight indentation in the center of each patty to prevent puffing during cooking.
– Preheat a grill or a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the burger patties for 4-5 minutes per side, or until they reach an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) for medium doneness.
**3. Assemble the Burgers:**
– While the patties are cooking, lightly butter and toast the hamburger buns on the grill or in a skillet until golden brown.
– Place a burger patty on the bottom half of each bun.
– Top each patty with a generous spoonful of the warm, creamy mac ‘n’ cheese.
– Add a slice of crispy bacon on top of the mac ‘n’ cheese.
– Garnish with fresh lettuce leaves, tomato slices, pickles, and caramelized onions if desired.
– Add ketchup and mustard to taste.
– Place the top bun on each burger and serve immediately.
**Prep Time:** 20 minutes | **Cook Time:** 25 minutes | **Total Time:** 45 minutes
**Kcal:** 950 kcal | **Servings:** 4 servings
This version incorporates some richer ingredients and adds optional elements like smoked paprika, heavy cream, and caramelized onions for added flavor. Enjoy your indulgent Bacon Mac ‘n’ Cheese Burger!