BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Mac (Print Version)
# Ingredients:
→ For the Mac 'n' Cheese
01 -
12 oz elbow macaroni (or pasta of choice)
02 -
2 tbsp unsalted butter
03 -
2 tbsp all-purpose flour
04 -
2 cups milk (whole or 2%)
05 -
1 cup heavy cream
06 -
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
07 -
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
08 -
1/2 tsp garlic powder
09 -
1/2 tsp onion powder
10 -
Salt & black pepper to taste
→ For the Cheeseburger Layer
11 -
1 lb ground beef (80/20 or lean)
12 -
1/2 cup diced onion
13 -
2 cloves garlic (minced)
14 -
1/2 cup BBQ sauce
15 -
1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
16 -
1/2 tsp smoked paprika
17 -
Salt & black pepper to taste
→ Toppings
18 -
6 slices cooked bacon (crumbled)
19 -
1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
20 -
1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
21 -
1/2 cup crushed Ritz crackers or panko breadcrumbs
22 -
2 tbsp butter (melted)
# Instructions:
01 -
Cook macaroni according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
02 -
In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly. Slowly whisk in milk and heavy cream, cooking until slightly thickened (3-4 minutes). Stir in cheddar, mozzarella, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper until melted and smooth.
03 -
In a large skillet, cook ground beef and onions over medium heat until browned. Drain excess grease. Add garlic, BBQ sauce, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes, then remove from heat.
04 -
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Mix cooked pasta with the cheese sauce and spread half into the baking dish. Layer with the cheeseburger mixture and then top with the remaining mac and cheese.
05 -
Sprinkle crumbled bacon, extra cheddar & mozzarella cheese over the top. In a small bowl, mix crushed crackers/panko with melted butter and sprinkle on top. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until bubbly and golden.
06 -
Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley or pickles for extra cheeseburger flavor.
# Notes:
01 -
Meat Options: Swap ground beef for ground turkey or ground pork.
02 -
Cheese Varieties: Use smoked gouda, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack for extra flavor.
03 -
BBQ Sauce Choice: Use a honey BBQ or smoky BBQ for a great taste.