Bacon Ranch Mac ‘n’ Cheese Burger
Get ready for a flavor explosion with this Bacon Ranch Mac ‘n’ Cheese Burger! Juicy beef patties are topped with creamy, cheesy mac ‘n’ cheese, all drizzled with a zesty ranch dressing that takes comfort food to a whole new level. Each bite is a delightful mix of savory and cheesy goodness, making it the perfect indulgence for any day of the week. Serve it up with crispy lettuce and fresh tomatoes for a burst of freshness, and you’ve got a meal that’s sure to impress your friends and family. Yum!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Trust me, you’re going to love this creamy, cheesy goodness!
- This one’s a game-changer for your burger nights!
- It’s the perfect blend of savory bacon and zesty ranch flavors!
- Easy to make, so you can whip it up any night of the week!
- Impress your friends and family with this unique twist on a classic!
Table of Contents
Recipe Snapshot
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Category: | Burger |
| Cuisine: | American |
| Prep Time: | 15 minutes |
| Cook Time: | 20 minutes |
| Total Time: | 35 minutes |
| Dietary: | Comfort Food |
| Serves: | 4 |
| Best Served: | Hot with toppings |
Ingredients
- Ground Beef – The hearty base for your burger, providing rich flavor and protein.
- Bacon – Adds a crispy, smoky element that elevates the burger experience.
- Macaroni – The classic pasta choice that gives the dish its signature comfort food vibe.
- Cheddar Cheese – Melts beautifully and brings a sharp, creamy taste to the mac ‘n’ cheese.
- Ranch Dressing – A zesty sauce that ties all the flavors together with a creamy texture.
- Breadcrumbs – Helps to bind the mac ‘n’ cheese mixture and adds a crunchy topping.
- Garlic Powder – Enhances the overall flavor profile with a subtle kick.
- Onion Powder – Adds depth and sweetness to the burger mixture.
- Salt – Essential for bringing out the flavors of all the ingredients.
- Pepper – A dash of heat that complements the richness of the burger.
- Burger Buns – The perfect vessel for holding all the delicious ingredients together.
Ingredients with measurements will be right under the article in the recipe card.
How to Make the Recipe
Get ready to whip up a delicious Bacon Ranch Mac ‘n’ Cheese Burger with these easy steps!
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 8 ounces of elbow macaroni and cook until al dente, about 7-8 minutes. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Make the Cheese Sauce
In a saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Stir in 2 tablespoons of flour to create a roux. Cook for 1-2 minutes until golden.
Step 3: Add Milk
Slowly whisk in 2 cups of milk, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens, about 5 minutes.
Step 4: Stir in Cheese
Add 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese and 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese. Stir until melted and smooth.
Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce. Mix well until every noodle is coated in cheesy goodness.
Step 6: Prepare the Burger Patties
In a bowl, combine 1 pound of ground beef, 1 tablespoon of ranch seasoning, and salt and pepper to taste. Form into 4 patties.
Step 7: Cook the Burgers
Heat a grill or skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the patties for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until cooked to your liking.
Step 8: Assemble the Burger
On a toasted bun, place a burger patty, then generously top with the mac ‘n’ cheese. Add crispy bacon bits and a drizzle of ranch dressing.
Step 9: Serve and Enjoy!
Serve your Bacon Ranch Mac ‘n’ Cheese Burger with a side of fries or a salad. Dig in and enjoy the ultimate comfort food experience!
Pro Tips for Making the Recipe
- Use sharp cheddar for a bold flavor that complements the bacon.
- Cook the macaroni al dente; it will continue to cook when baked.
- For extra creaminess, add a splash of heavy cream to the cheese sauce.
- Top with crispy fried onions for a delightful crunch.
- Experiment with different cheeses like gouda or pepper jack for a unique twist.
How to Serve
Enjoy your Bacon Ranch Mac ‘n’ Cheese Burger with these fun serving suggestions:
- Top with crispy fried onions for extra crunch.
- Serve on a toasted brioche bun for a gourmet touch.
- Add fresh lettuce and tomato for a burst of freshness.
- Pair with sweet potato fries for a delicious twist.
- Offer a side of ranch dressing for dipping.
- Garnish with chopped chives or parsley for a pop of color.
- Serve with a refreshing cucumber salad to balance the richness.
- Try it with a side of coleslaw for a classic combo.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing leftovers is easy and ensures you can enjoy your Bacon Ranch Mac ‘n’ Cheese Burger later!
Storing Leftovers
- Allow the burger to cool completely before storing.
- Wrap the burger tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
- Place it in an airtight container for extra protection.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing
- Wrap the cooled burger in plastic wrap, then in foil.
- Place in a freezer-safe bag or container.
- Label with the date and freeze for up to 2 months.
Reheating
- Thaw the burger in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
- Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes.
- Microwave on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking frequently.
- Ensure the cheese is melted and the burger is heated through.
FAQs
What can I use instead of pork bacon?
Turkey bacon or beef bacon are excellent substitutes that still provide that crispy, savory flavor without using pork. You can also try plant-based bacon for a vegetarian option!
Can I make this burger gluten-free?
Absolutely! Just use gluten-free buns and ensure that all other ingredients, like sauces and seasonings, are gluten-free. This way, everyone can enjoy this delicious burger!
How can I make the mac ‘n’ cheese creamier?
To achieve a creamier mac ‘n’ cheese, consider adding extra cheese or a splash of milk or cream while cooking. You can also incorporate cream cheese for a rich texture!
Can I prepare the mac ‘n’ cheese in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the mac ‘n’ cheese ahead of time! Just store it in the fridge and reheat it when you’re ready to assemble your burger. This makes meal prep a breeze!
Bacon Ranch Mac ‘n’ Cheese Burger
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add elbow macaroni and cook until al dente, about 7-8 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in flour to create a roux. Cook for 1-2 minutes until golden.
- Slowly whisk in milk, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens, about 5 minutes.
- Add shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese. Stir until melted and smooth.
- Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce. Mix well until every noodle is coated in cheesy goodness.
- In a bowl, combine ground beef, ranch seasoning, and salt and pepper to taste. Form into 4 patties.
- Heat a grill or skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the patties for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until cooked to your liking.
- On a toasted bun, place a burger patty, then generously top with the mac ‘n’ cheese. Add crispy bacon bits and a drizzle of ranch dressing.
- Serve your Bacon Ranch Mac ‘n’ Cheese Burger with a side of fries or a salad. Dig in and enjoy the ultimate comfort food experience!
Final Thoughts
There you have it—the Bacon Ranch Mac ‘n’ Cheese Burger! This delightful dish is not just a meal; it’s a warm hug on a plate. With its creamy, cheesy goodness and crispy bacon flavor, it’s sure to bring a smile to your face. So gather your ingredients, invite some friends over, and enjoy this simple yet rewarding recipe. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you!
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