Description
Bacon Cheeseburger Mac & Cheese Recipe
Ingredients:
2 cups elbow macaroni
1 lb ground beef
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
4 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup milk
1 tablespoon butter
Instructions:
Cook the macaroni according to package instructions, then drain and set aside. In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika until browned. Drain excess grease.
In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add heavy cream and milk, then stir in cheddar and mozzarella cheese until melted. Combine the cooked pasta, beef, and cheese sauce, mixing well. Stir in half of the crumbled bacon.
Transfer to a serving bowl, top with remaining bacon, and serve warm. Enjoy!
Step-by-Step Guide
1. Prep Ingredients: Cook bacon until crispy, then crumble. Shred cheeses if not pre-shredded. Measure all seasonings.
2. Cook Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add elbow macaroni and cook until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. Brown the Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, add ground beef. Break it apart with a spoon and cook for 3-4 minutes. Add salt, pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. Continue cooking until no pink remains. Drain any excess fat.
4. Make the Cheese Sauce: In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Pour in the heavy cream and milk, stirring gently. Let it warm for 2-3 minutes without boiling. Reduce heat to low and gradually add the shredded cheddar and mozzarella, stirring constantly until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
5. Combine Everything: In the large skillet with the beef (or a large pot), combine the drained pasta and the cheese sauce. Stir over low heat until everything is evenly coated. Fold in half of the crumbled bacon.
6. Serve: Transfer the mixture to a serving dish. Top with the remaining crumbled bacon for garnish.
Serving Suggestions
This rich and hearty dish stands well on its own but can be elevated with simple sides. Serve with a crisp green salad dressed with a tangy vinaigrette to cut through the richness. Garlic bread or buttery dinner rolls are perfect for scooping up every last bit of cheesy sauce. For a classic burger joint feel, add pickle spears and a side of crispy french fries or onion rings.
How-to Summary
Cook pasta and brown seasoned ground beef separately. Create a simple cheese sauce by melting butter, warming cream and milk, and stirring in shredded cheeses until smooth. Combine the pasta, beef, and sauce in one pan. Mix in half the cooked bacon, then top with the rest before serving warm.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different pasta shape? Absolutely. Cavatappi, shells, or rotini are excellent choices as their shapes hold sauce well.
How can I make this recipe spicier? Add 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon of cayenne pepper to the beef, or mix in a diced jalapeño when making the cheese sauce.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time? Yes, assemble fully but hold the final bacon topping. Store covered in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until bubbly, then add the fresh bacon.
What’s the best way to prevent a grainy cheese sauce? Use freshly shredded cheese from a block, as pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that can hinder melting. Also, keep the heat low when adding cheese to the warm cream mixture.
Can I substitute the heavy cream? For a slightly lighter version, you can use half-and-half, but the sauce will be less rich and thick. Evaporated milk is another good option for a creamy result.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid overcooking the pasta, as it will continue to soften when mixed with the sauce—aim for al dente. Do not add cheese to a boiling liquid, as high heat can cause the sauce to break and become oily. Draining the excess fat from the cooked ground beef is crucial to prevent a greasy final dish. Finally, resist the urge to use cold cheese straight from the fridge; letting it come closer to room temperature helps it melt more smoothly.
Conclusion
This Bacon Cheeseburger Mac & Cheese is the ultimate comfort food fusion, combining beloved flavors into one simple, satisfying skillet meal. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. By following the detailed steps and tips provided, you can avoid common pitfalls and achieve a creamy, flavorful dish every time. Customize it with your favorite burger toppings and enjoy the delicious results.