Description
Loaded Mac & Cheese BBQ Burger
Ingredients:
For the burger:
1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend)
Salt and pepper to taste
4 slices of cheddar cheese
4 brioche burger buns
1/4 cup mayonnaise
1 tablespoon ketchup
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
For the mac & cheese topping:
1 cup cooked macaroni
1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/4 cup milk
1 tablespoon butter
Salt and pepper to taste
For the onion rings:
1 large onion, sliced into rings
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1 egg, beaten
Oil for frying
For assembly:
1/4 cup BBQ sauce
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
Prepare the mac & cheese:
In a small pot, melt butter and stir in milk. Add shredded cheddar cheese and stir until smooth and creamy. Toss the cooked macaroni in the cheese sauce and set aside.
Make the onion rings:
Heat oil in a skillet to 350°F (175°C). Coat the onion rings in flour, dip in beaten egg, and then coat with breadcrumbs. Fry until golden and crispy, about 2-3 minutes per side. Drain on a paper towel and set aside.
Cook the burgers:
Form ground beef into 4 patties. Season with salt and pepper. Cook on a skillet or grill over medium-high heat for 3-4 minutes per side, adding a slice of cheddar cheese on top in the last minute to melt.
Toast the buns:
Mix mayonnaise, ketchup, and smoked paprika to make a sauce. Spread it on the cut sides of the brioche buns and toast lightly on a skillet.
Assemble the burger:
Spread the sauce on the bottom bun. Place the burger patty with melted cheese, then add a generous scoop of mac & cheese, crispy onion rings, and drizzle with BBQ sauce. Top with parsley if desired. Add the top bun.
Serve and enjoy:
Dig into this messy, cheesy, and savory delight. Serve with fries or a side of your choice.
This ultimate comfort burger is a game-changer for any cheat day!
Step-by-Step Guide
1. Begin by cooking your macaroni according to package directions. While it cooks, slice your onion into 1/2-inch rings and set up your breading station with flour, beaten egg, and breadcrumbs in separate shallow dishes.
2. Prepare the cheese sauce: In a small pot over low heat, melt the butter. Whisk in the milk and shredded cheddar until completely smooth. Season with salt and pepper, then fold in the drained, cooked macaroni. Cover and set aside.
3. Fry the onion rings: Heat 1 inch of oil in a heavy skillet to 350°F. Dredge each onion ring in flour, then egg, then breadcrumbs. Fry in batches for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown. Drain on paper towels.
4. Form and cook the patties: Divide the ground beef into four equal portions and gently form into patties slightly wider than your buns. Season liberally with salt and pepper. Cook on a preheated grill or skillet over medium-high heat for 3-4 minutes. Flip, cook for another 2-3 minutes, then place a cheese slice on each patty to melt.
5. Toast the buns: Mix the mayonnaise, ketchup, and smoked paprika. Spread this sauce on the cut sides of the brioche buns and toast in a skillet or oven until lightly golden.
Serving Suggestions
This burger is a hearty meal on its own, but pairing it correctly elevates the experience. Serve it with a crisp, cold side like a simple green salad or tangy coleslaw to cut through the richness. For the ultimate indulgence, add a side of sweet potato fries or classic shoestring fries. Have plenty of napkins ready! For drinks, consider a cold craft beer, an iced tea, or a creamy milkshake to complement the savory flavors.
How-to Summary
Create this epic burger by first making a simple stovetop mac and cheese. Then, bread and fry onion rings until crispy. Cook seasoned beef patties, topping them with cheddar cheese to melt. Toast brioche buns spread with a smoky mayo-ketchup sauce. Assemble by stacking the cheeseburger, a scoop of mac and cheese, crispy onion rings, and a drizzle of BBQ sauce.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I prepare any components ahead of time? Yes. The mac and cheese can be made ahead and gently reheated with a splash of milk to loosen it. Onion rings are best served fresh but can be kept warm in a 200°F oven for up to 30 minutes after frying.
What’s a good substitute for brioche buns? Potato buns, pretzel buns, or classic sesame seed buns are excellent alternatives that will hold up to the hefty toppings.
How can I make the onion rings gluten-free? Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend and gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free cereal for breading.
My cheese sauce is grainy. What went wrong? Graininess usually occurs from overheating. Always use low heat when melting cheese into the milk and butter base, and remove the pot from the heat as soon as the sauce is smooth.
Can I use a different meat for the patty? Absolutely. Ground chicken, turkey, or a plant-based meat alternative work well. Adjust cooking times accordingly based on the protein’s fat content.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid overmixing the ground beef when forming patties, as this makes them tough. Do not press down on the patties while cooking, as you’ll lose precious juices. Ensure your oil is hot enough (350°F) before frying onion rings; otherwise, they will absorb too much oil and become soggy. When assembling, don’t overload the burger to the point where it becomes impossible to eat—aim for structural integrity. Finally, don’t skip toasting the buns, as it provides crucial texture to support the moist toppings.
Conclusion
The Loaded Mac & Cheese BBQ Burger is the pinnacle of comfort food fusion, combining beloved elements into one unforgettable meal. While it requires multiple components, each step is simple and the final, messy, flavor-packed result is worth every minute. Perfect for a special weekend treat or an impressive dish for guests, this burger promises to be a show-stopping crowd-pleaser that delivers on its indulgent premise.