Mac and Cheese Burger with Crispy Topping

This Mac and Cheese Burger with Crispy Topping is the ultimate indulgence for comfort food lovers. Imagine a juicy beef patty smothered in creamy macaroni and cheese, all nestled between a fluffy burger bun and topped with a crunchy breadcrumb layer. It’s the perfect mash-up of two classic favorites that promises to satisfy your cravings and elevate your burger game to a whole new level.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe brings together the rich flavors of a cheeseburger and the creamy goodness of mac and cheese. It’s comfort food at its finest, with a delightful crunch that makes each bite exciting.

• Rich and Creamy: The macaroni and cheese adds a layer of creaminess that pairs perfectly with the savory beef.
• Crispy Topping: A crunchy breadcrumb topping gives it a satisfying texture contrast.
• Fun and Unique: This burger is a fun twist that’s sure to impress your friends at your next barbecue.
• Customizable: Add your favorite toppings to make this burger truly yours.

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 4 hamburger buns
• 1 cup elbow macaroni
• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 2 cups milk
• 1/4 cup butter
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon mustard powder
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Optional toppings: pickles, lettuce, tomato, and extra cheese

How to Make Mac and Cheese Burger

1. Start by cooking the elbow macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the flour and cook for about 1 minute, stirring constantly.
3. Gradually add the milk while whisking to avoid lumps. Continue cooking until the mixture thickens, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in the cheddar cheese and mustard powder, mixing until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth. Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir until well combined. Set aside.
5. In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Form into 4 equal patties.
6. Heat a grill or skillet over medium-high heat and cook the patties for about 4-5 minutes per side or until they reach an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).
7. While the burgers are cooking, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs with olive oil until evenly coated.
8. Once the burgers are cooked, place a generous scoop of the mac and cheese on top of each patty. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture over the mac and cheese.
9. Transfer the burgers to a baking sheet and bake in the oven for about 10 minutes or until the breadcrumbs are golden brown and crispy.
10. Remove from the oven and assemble the burgers by placing each patty on a bun. Add any optional toppings you desire.

Tips for the Best Results

• For extra flavor, mix in some cooked bacon bits into the mac and cheese.
• Use different types of cheese for a unique flavor profile—try Monterey Jack or Gouda.
• Make sure to compress the burger patties slightly for even cooking and to prevent them from puffing up.

Easy Variations

• Replace ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
• Use gluten-free pasta and breadcrumbs to make this dish gluten-free.
• Add some spice by incorporating jalapeños into the mac and cheese or topping the burger with spicy sauce.

What to Serve With It

• Crispy sweet potato fries
• Fresh coleslaw
• Grilled corn on the cob
• A light side salad with vinaigrette

Storage and Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the burger in a microwave or warm in an oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.

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