Are you looking for a dish that combines the irresistible flavors of a juicy burger with creamy, cheesy goodness? Look no further than Bacon Mac & Cheese Stuffed Burger Bites. These delightful burger bites are not just your average sliders; they’re packed with a mouthwatering mac and cheese filling that oozes out when you take your first bite. And let’s not forget the crispy bacon that adds a savory crunch to every bite!
This recipe is a game-changer for burger lovers who want to take their burger game to the next level. Whether you’re hosting a backyard BBQ, a family dinner, or simply craving a unique and indulgent treat, Bacon Mac & Cheese Stuffed Burger Bites are sure to steal the show. With a perfect balance of juicy beef, creamy mac and cheese, and crispy bacon, it’s a recipe you’ll make over and over again.
Why Bacon Mac & Cheese Stuffed Burger Bites Are the Ultimate Comfort Food
When you think of comfort food, what comes to mind? For many, it’s the classic combination of mac and cheese, perhaps with a few crispy bacon crumbles sprinkled on top. But what if you could take that beloved mac and cheese and stuff it inside a burger? That’s exactly what this recipe does – and the results are truly mouthwatering.
Bacon Mac & Cheese Stuffed Burger Bites combine two of the most iconic comfort foods into one delicious bite-sized creation. Imagine the creamy richness of homemade mac and cheese, the savory goodness of bacon, and the juicy, tender bite of a perfectly seasoned beef patty, all wrapped in a toasted slider bun. It’s a combination that’s hard to beat.
The Secret to a Perfect Bacon Mac & Cheese Stuffed Burger
The magic behind these stuffed burger bites lies in the balance of flavors and textures. Here’s why they’re so delicious:
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Ground Beef: We use 80/20 ground beef in this recipe, which is perfect for juicy burgers. The higher fat content ensures that the patties remain moist and flavorful when cooked.
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Mac & Cheese Filling: The mac and cheese is the star of the show. The creamy sauce, rich cheddar cheese, and the hint of Dijon mustard elevate the mac and cheese flavor, while the crispy bacon adds the perfect crunch and saltiness.
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Seasonings: The ground beef is seasoned with just the right amount of salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. These simple seasonings bring out the natural beefy flavor without overpowering the dish.
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Toasted Slider Buns: The slider buns are lightly toasted, providing a crispy, buttery texture that pairs perfectly with the creamy, cheesy filling.
When all these elements come together, you get a burger bite that’s bursting with flavor in every single mouthful. Plus, they’re easy to make and even easier to devour!
Bacon Mac & Cheese Stuffed Burger Bites Ingredients
To make these delicious Bacon Mac & Cheese Stuffed Burger Bites, here’s everything you’ll need:
For the Mac & Cheese Filling:
- 4 oz cooked macaroni pasta: You’ll need about half a cup of cooked macaroni. It’s best to use elbow macaroni or another small pasta shape that will hold the cheese sauce well.
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese: The cheddar cheese gives the mac and cheese its rich, tangy flavor and creamy texture.
- 1/4 cup crumbled crispy bacon: Bacon adds a smoky, salty crunch that pairs beautifully with the creamy cheese sauce.
- 1 tablespoon butter: To create the roux for the cheese sauce.
- 1 tablespoon flour: The flour helps thicken the cheese sauce, giving it the perfect creamy consistency.
- 1/2 cup milk: The milk helps bring the sauce together, creating that smooth, creamy texture.
- 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard: This adds a tangy, sharp flavor that balances the richness of the cheese.
For the Beef Patties:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend): The 80/20 ratio of beef to fat creates juicy, flavorful patties.
- 1 teaspoon salt: To enhance the flavor of the beef.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: For a little heat and flavor.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds a savory depth of flavor to the beef patties.
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika: This gives the beef a subtle smoky flavor, adding a unique twist to the dish.
For the Sliders:
- 4 slider buns: Toasted slider buns are the perfect vessel for these cheesy, bacon-stuffed burger bites.
- Chopped parsley for garnish: Adds a fresh, green touch and a pop of color to the finished sliders.
Directions for Bacon Mac & Cheese Stuffed Burger Bites
Now that you have all the ingredients ready, it’s time to dive into the recipe and make these Bacon Mac & Cheese Stuffed Burger Bites. The process is simple, and the results are nothing short of spectacular.
1. Prepare the Mac & Cheese Filling
First things first: make the mac and cheese filling. In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, stir in the flour and cook for about 1 minute to create a roux. The roux is what will thicken the cheese sauce and give it that creamy texture we all love.
Next, gradually whisk in the milk, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Keep stirring until the sauce begins to thicken – this usually takes about 3-4 minutes. Once the sauce has thickened, remove the pan from the heat.
Now, it’s time to add the cheese. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and Dijon mustard, mixing until the cheese has melted and the sauce is smooth. Finally, add the cooked macaroni pasta and crumbled bacon to the sauce, stirring until everything is well combined. Let the mac and cheese mixture cool slightly while you prepare the beef patties.
2. Season the Ground Beef
In a mixing bowl, combine the ground beef with the salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. Use your hands or a spoon to gently mix everything together. Be careful not to overwork the beef, as this can result in tough patties.
Once the beef is seasoned, divide it into 8 equal portions. Use your hands to form each portion into a thin patty. These patties should be just large enough to encase the mac and cheese filling.
3. Form the Burger Bites
Now, let’s stuff these patties with the delicious mac and cheese filling. Place a spoonful of the mac and cheese mixture in the center of 4 of the patties. Be generous with the filling, but don’t overfill, as this will make sealing the patties more difficult.
Top each filled patty with the remaining patties, gently pressing down on the edges to seal the filling inside. Make sure the edges are well sealed so that the mac and cheese doesn’t leak out while cooking.
4. Cook the Burger Bites
Heat a skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the stuffed burger bites and cook for about 3-4 minutes per side. The goal is to cook the burgers to an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) – this ensures that the beef is fully cooked and safe to eat.
While cooking, the burger bites will develop a nice, crispy crust on the outside while staying juicy and cheesy on the inside. The mac and cheese filling will also melt and blend with the beef, creating a rich and flavorful center.
5. Assemble the Sliders
Once the burger bites are cooked to perfection, it’s time to assemble the sliders. Place each stuffed burger bite on a toasted slider bun, ensuring that the crispy, cheesy filling is on full display. If you like, you can garnish with a little chopped parsley for a burst of color and freshness.
6. Serve and Enjoy!
These Bacon Mac & Cheese Stuffed Burger Bites are best served hot, fresh from the skillet or grill. The cheesy filling is bound to ooze out as you take a bite, creating a delicious mess that’s absolutely worth it. These sliders are perfect for a fun meal, game day snack, or even a special occasion.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 450 kcal per serving
Nutritional Information
Each serving of these Bacon Mac & Cheese Stuffed Burger Bites packs in a delicious balance of flavors, with a rich combination of beef, cheese, and bacon. Here’s the nutritional breakdown per serving:
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Protein: 25g
- Carbs: 32g
- Fat: 28g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 4g
Tips and Variations for the Perfect Bacon Mac & Cheese Stuffed Burger Bites
Make It Spicy
If you love a bit of heat, add some diced jalapeños to the mac and cheese filling. The spicy kick will complement the creamy cheese and smoky bacon perfectly.
Swap the Meat
While beef is the classic choice, you can easily swap the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken if you prefer a leaner option. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time to account for the different meat.
Add Extra Toppings
For an extra burst of flavor, top your Bacon Mac & Cheese Stuffed Burger Bites with caramelized onions, sautéed mushrooms, or even a fried egg. These toppings add a gourmet twist to this already indulgent dish.
Make It Ahead
You can prepare the mac and cheese filling and form the beef patties ahead of time. Just store everything separately in the fridge, and when you’re ready to cook, stuff and cook the burgers as directed.
FAQs About Bacon Mac & Cheese Stuffed Burger Bites
1. Why do people put bacon on burgers?
Bacon is a popular topping for burgers because it adds an irresistible crunch and a smoky, savory flavor that perfectly complements the rich, juicy beef. The combination of the crispy texture and salty taste of bacon enhances the overall flavor profile of the burger, giving each bite a delicious contrast to the softness of the bun and the tenderness of the beef patty. Plus, bacon’s savory profile pairs well with other burger ingredients like cheese, lettuce, and sauces, making it a versatile and tasty addition.
2. What to put on a mac and cheese burger?
When making a mac and cheese burger, the possibilities are endless! Besides the essential mac and cheese filling, you can add a variety of toppings to take your burger to the next level. Consider adding crispy bacon for extra crunch and flavor, sautéed onions for sweetness, fresh lettuce for a bit of greenery, or a fried egg for richness. A dollop of BBQ sauce or a touch of spicy sriracha can also add an extra layer of flavor, giving your mac and cheese burger a unique twist.
3. How many calories are in a bacon and cheese burger?
The calorie count of a bacon and cheese burger can vary based on the ingredients used and the portion size. On average, a bacon cheeseburger can range from 400 to 700 calories per serving. In the case of Bacon Mac & Cheese Stuffed Burger Bites, each serving contains approximately 450 calories, thanks to the combination of ground beef, mac and cheese, bacon, and slider buns. Keep in mind that adding extra toppings like avocado or sauces can increase the calorie content.
4. How do you stack cheese with burgers?
Stacking cheese with burgers is all about balancing the flavors and creating a gooey, melty texture that enhances the overall eating experience. Typically, one or two slices of cheese are placed directly on top of the patty while it’s still hot, allowing the cheese to melt perfectly over the beef. For extra cheese indulgence, you can also layer cheese inside the burger, especially in stuffed burger recipes like Bacon Mac & Cheese Stuffed Burger Bites. The mac and cheese filling adds an extra layer of cheese, creating a rich, cheesy experience in every bite!
Conclusion: A Flavor Explosion in Every Bite
Bacon Mac & Cheese Stuffed Burger Bites are the ultimate comfort food, combining juicy, seasoned beef with creamy mac and cheese and crispy bacon—all packed into a bite-sized burger. Whether you’re serving them for a game day snack, a fun dinner idea, or a party appetizer, these little bites are guaranteed to impress. The rich, cheesy filling paired with smoky bacon and perfectly seasoned beef makes every bite unforgettable.
If you loved this recipe, don’t forget to share your creation on social media! And for more delicious ideas, check out these other recipes you’re sure to enjoy:
So go ahead, indulge in these delicious burger bites, and let the creamy, cheesy goodness take over your taste buds. You won’t regret it!
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Bacon Mac & Cheese Stuffed Burger Bites – Cheesy & Juicy
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
These Bacon Mac & Cheese Stuffed Burger Bites are a game-changer! Juicy beef patties are stuffed with creamy mac & cheese and crispy bacon, then seared to perfection. Whether you’re hosting a party or just craving an indulgent bite-sized treat, these stuffed burgers are guaranteed to satisfy every cheesy, meaty craving.
Ingredients
For the Burgers:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend for juicy burgers)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
For the Mac & Cheese Filling:
- 4 oz cooked macaroni pasta
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup crumbled crispy bacon
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 tablespoon flour
- 1/2 cup milk
- 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
For Assembly:
- 4 slider buns, toasted
- Chopped parsley for garnish
Instructions
1️⃣ Prepare the Mac & Cheese Filling:
- In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter.
- Stir in the flour and cook for about 1 minute to create a roux.
- Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring constantly until thickened.
- Remove from heat and mix in the shredded cheddar cheese, Dijon mustard, cooked macaroni, and crumbled bacon. Stir until the cheese is melted and well combined. Let it cool slightly.
2️⃣ Season the Ground Beef:
- In a mixing bowl, combine the ground beef with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika.
- Mix gently until the seasonings are evenly distributed.
3️⃣ Form the Burger Bites:
- Divide the ground beef into 8 equal portions. Flatten each portion into a thin patty.
- Place a spoonful of the mac & cheese mixture in the center of 4 patties.
- Top with the remaining patties and carefully seal the edges to encase the filling.
4️⃣ Cook the Burger Bites:
- Heat a skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat.
- Cook the stuffed burger bites for about 3-4 minutes per side or until they reach an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) and develop a nice crust.
5️⃣ Assemble the Sliders:
- Place each stuffed burger bite on a toasted slider bun.
- Garnish with chopped parsley for extra flavor.
6️⃣ Serve:
- Enjoy your Bacon Mac & Cheese Stuffed Burger Bites while they’re hot, oozing with cheesy goodness!
Notes
- Use freshly shredded cheese for the best melt and flavor.
- For an extra crispy crust, sear the burger bites in a cast-iron skillet.
- Serve with a side of pickles or dipping sauce for added flavor!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Appetizers, Burgers
- Method: Stovetop, Grilling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 stuffed burger slider
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 720mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
Keywords: bacon mac and cheese stuffed burger bites, mac and cheese burger, stuffed burger sliders, cheesy burger bites, bacon stuffed burgers, burger appetizers, easy stuffed burgers