Get ready to experience the ultimate comfort food with this Bacon Cheeseburger Mac and Cheese! This delicious dish combines the creamy goodness of classic mac and cheese with the savory flavors of a juicy cheeseburger and crispy bacon. Perfect for family dinners or a cozy night in, this recipe is sure to satisfy your cravings and leave everyone asking for seconds. With its rich cheese sauce and hearty ingredients, it’s a meal that brings together the best of both worlds in one delicious bowl!

What Makes It Special

What sets this Bacon Cheeseburger Mac and Cheese apart is its unique blend of flavors and textures. The combination of tender elbow macaroni, seasoned ground beef, and crispy bacon creates a hearty dish that is both filling and comforting. The creamy cheese sauce, infused with garlic and smoked paprika, adds depth and richness, making each bite a delightful experience. It’s a fun twist on traditional mac and cheese that will please both kids and adults alike!

Ingredients

• 12 ounces elbow macaroni
• 1 pound ground beef
• 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
• 1/2 cup diced onion
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups whole milk
• 1 cup beef broth
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

1. Cook the Macaroni: Cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Brown the Beef: In a large skillet, brown the ground beef with the diced onion over medium heat. Drain excess grease and set the beef mixture aside.
3. Make the Cheese Sauce: In the same skillet, whisk together the flour and milk over medium heat. Slowly add the beef broth while stirring constantly until the mixture thickens.
4. Add Seasonings: Stir in the garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Lower the heat and mix in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and creamy.
5. Combine Ingredients: Stir the cooked macaroni, beef mixture, and crumbled bacon into the cheese sauce. Toss until everything is evenly coated.
6. Serve Hot: Serve your Bacon Cheeseburger Mac and Cheese hot for a hearty, comforting dinner!

Nutritional Information

• Serving Size: 1 cup
• Calories: 600 kcal
• Total Fat: 35g
• Saturated Fat: 18g
• Cholesterol: 90mg
• Sodium: 950mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 45g
• Dietary Fiber: 2g
• Sugars: 4g
• Protein: 30g

Note: Nutritional values are approximate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.

Cooking Tips

• For added flavor, consider using sharp cheddar cheese or a blend of cheeses like Monterey Jack and Gouda.
• Feel free to customize the recipe by adding your favorite burger toppings, such as diced pickles or tomatoes.
• If you prefer a spicier kick, add some diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the cheese sauce.
• This dish can be made ahead of time and reheated, making it perfect for meal prep!

Conclusion

We hope you enjoy making and indulging in this Bacon Cheeseburger Mac and Cheese! It’s a comforting and satisfying dish that’s perfect for any occasion. We’d love to hear your thoughts on this recipe, so please leave your feedback below. Don’t forget to follow us for more delicious recipes and cooking inspiration!