Description
Grilled Mac & Cheese Bacon Burger Wrap
Ingredients:
2 large flour tortillas
1 cup cooked macaroni and cheese
1/2 lb ground beef
4 slices crispy bacon, crumbled
1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/4 tsp smoked paprika
1 tbsp butter (for grilling)
Instructions:
In a skillet, cook ground beef over medium heat until browned. Season with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. Drain excess fat and set aside. Lay tortillas flat and divide the cooked macaroni and cheese evenly. Add ground beef, crumbled bacon, and shredded cheddar cheese. Fold the sides in and roll tightly into a wrap. Heat a grill pan or skillet over medium heat and melt butter. Grill wraps for 2-3 minutes per side until golden and crispy. Slice and serve warm. Enjoy!
Step-by-Step Guide
1. Prepare the Fillings: Cook the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat, breaking it apart. Once browned, drain the fat and stir in the salt, pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. Cook your macaroni and cheese according to package directions or use your favorite homemade recipe. Cook the bacon until crispy, then crumble it.
2. Assemble the Wrap: Lay a large flour tortilla flat on a clean surface. Spread 1/2 cup of the cooked mac and cheese in a line down the center, leaving a 2-inch border at the top and bottom. Top with half of the seasoned ground beef, half of the crumbled bacon, and 1/4 cup of shredded cheddar cheese.
3. Fold and Roll: Fold the sides of the tortilla inward over the ends of the filling. Starting from the bottom, tightly roll the tortilla upward, enclosing the filling completely. Repeat with the second tortilla and remaining ingredients.
4. Grill to Perfection: Heat a grill pan or skillet over medium heat. Add the butter. Once melted, place the wraps seam-side down. Grill for 2-3 minutes until golden and crisp, then carefully flip and grill the other side for another 2-3 minutes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these hearty wraps sliced in half on a diagonal to showcase the layers. They pair wonderfully with a light, crisp side to cut through the richness. Consider a simple green salad with vinaigrette, dill pickle spears, or a side of seasoned sweet potato fries. For dipping, offer small bowls of ranch dressing, barbecue sauce, or extra warm cheese sauce.
How-to Summary
To make a Grilled Mac & Cheese Bacon Burger Wrap, cook and season ground beef, prepare mac and cheese, and crisp bacon. Assemble by layering these ingredients with cheddar cheese on a tortilla. Fold the sides in, roll tightly, and grill in butter until the exterior is golden and crispy. Slice and serve immediately.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these wraps ahead of time? You can prepare the fillings and assemble the wraps a few hours in advance. Keep them covered in the refrigerator. For best results, grill just before serving to ensure a crispy tortilla.
What’s the best way to prevent the wrap from falling apart? Ensure you don’t overfill the tortilla. The key is a tight roll, starting with firm side folds to create a sealed pocket before rolling upward from the bottom.
Can I use a different cheese? Absolutely. Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or a Colby blend work well. For maximum melt, use freshly shredded cheese from a block, as pre-shredded varieties contain anti-caking agents.
Is there an alternative cooking method? Yes. You can bake them in a 400°F oven for 10-15 minutes, flipping halfway, or use a panini press for great grill marks and even pressure.
Can I add other ingredients? Definitely. Sautéed onions or mushrooms, pickles, jalapeños, or a drizzle of burger sauce inside the wrap can add fantastic flavor and texture.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overfilling the Tortilla: This is the main cause of bursting. Use the recommended amounts and keep the filling in a compact line.
- Using Cold Fillings: Adding cold mac and cheese or beef to the wrap can result in a cold center after grilling. Use warm or room-temperature ingredients.
- Not Draining the Beef: Excess grease from the ground beef will make the tortilla soggy. Always drain it thoroughly after cooking.
- Grilling on Too High Heat: This will burn the tortilla before the inside cheese fully melts. Use a consistent medium heat for even cooking and browning.
Conclusion
The Grilled Mac & Cheese Bacon Burger Wrap is the ultimate fusion comfort food, combining beloved flavors into a crispy, handheld meal. By following the detailed steps and avoiding common pitfalls, you can create a restaurant-quality dish at home. Don’t be afraid to customize it with your favorite burger toppings. This recipe is sure to become a standout favorite for its incredible combination of creamy, savory, and crunchy textures in every bite.