Mac and Cheese Bacon Burger Rolls Recipe

Introduction

These Mac and Cheese Bacon Burger Rolls are a simple and delicious twist on comfort food favorites. Imagine savory ground beef and crispy bacon mixed with creamy macaroni and cheese, all wrapped in a soft roll. Perfect for a hearty dinner or game day snack, this recipe combines familiar flavors in a fun, handheld format. For another easy side dish, try this Cornbread Casserole Recipe Easy.

Ingredients

These savory Mac Cheese Bacon Burger Rolls combine the comforting creaminess of mac and cheese with the smoky crunch of bacon, all wrapped in a warm tortilla for the ultimate handheld meal.

• 1 lb 80/20 ground beef
• 2 cups cooked elbow macaroni
• 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• 6 slices crispy bacon, crumbled
• 4 large flour tortillas (burrito size)
• 2 tablespoons ketchup
• 1 tablespoon mustard
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: butter or oil for cooking

Timing

Prep Time	25 minutes
Cook Time	20 minutes
Total Time	45 minutes

Context: These Mac Cheese Bacon Burger Rolls are about 20% faster to prepare than similar recipes.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1 — Prepare the Mac and Cheese Filling

Cook 1 cup of elbow macaroni according to package directions until al dente. Drain well and set aside. In a saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat, then whisk in 2 tablespoons of flour to create a roux.

Cook the roux for 1 minute until golden, then gradually whisk in 1 cup of milk until smooth. Stir constantly until the sauce thickens, about 3–4 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in 1 cup of shredded sharp cheddar cheese until melted and creamy.

Fold the cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Let the mac and cheese cool completely before using as filling—this prevents the burger dough from becoming soggy.

Step 2 — Cook and Crumble the Bacon

Cook 6 slices of bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy, about 8–10 minutes. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess grease. Once cooled, crumble the bacon into small pieces.

Reserve 2 tablespoons of bacon drippings to brush over the finished Mac Cheese Bacon Burger Rolls for extra flavor. For a quicker option, use pre-cooked bacon crumbles, but fresh-cooked bacon provides superior texture.

Step 3 — Mix the Burger Dough

In a large bowl, combine 1 pound of ground beef (80/20 blend works best), 1 beaten egg, ¼ cup breadcrumbs, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon onion powder, and ½ teaspoon salt. Mix gently with your hands until just combined—overmixing can make the burgers tough.

Divide the mixture into 8 equal portions. Flatten each portion into a thin, oval-shaped patty about ¼-inch thick on a piece of parchment paper. The thinness ensures even cooking and easy rolling.

Step 4 — Assemble the Rolls

Place 2 tablespoons of cooled mac and cheese filling in the center of each beef patty. Sprinkle 1 tablespoon of crumbled bacon over the mac and cheese. Carefully fold the edges of the patty over the filling, pinching to seal completely.

Roll each stuffed patty into a tight cylinder, ensuring no filling leaks out. If the beef cracks, dampen your fingers with water to smooth seams. Place seam-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Step 5 — Bake to Perfection

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Arrange the Mac Cheese Bacon Burger Rolls on the baking sheet with space between them. Bake for 20–25 minutes until the beef is fully cooked and reaches an internal temperature of 160°F.

For extra browning, brush the rolls with reserved bacon drippings halfway through baking. The rolls are done when the exterior is browned and firm to the touch, and cheese may bubble out slightly.

Step 6 — Rest and Serve

Remove the Mac Cheese Bacon Burger Rolls from the oven and let rest for 5 minutes before serving. This allows the filling to set and prevents burns from hot cheese. Serve warm with your favorite burger sauces or additional crispy bacon on top.

For a crispier exterior, finish under the broiler for 1–2 minutes after baking. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days—reheat in the oven for best texture.

Nutritional Information

Calories	480
Protein	24g
Carbohydrates	35g
Fat	26g
Fiber	2g
Sodium	890mg

Note: Estimates based on typical ingredients and serving size.

Healthier Alternatives

• Lean Ground Turkey — A lighter protein option that still provides a savory base for your Mac Cheese Bacon Burger Rolls.
• Whole-Wheat Pasta — Adds fiber and nutrients to the mac and cheese component for a more wholesome meal.
• Low-Fat Cheese or Nutritional Yeast — Reduces saturated fat while maintaining the cheesy flavor essential to these rolls.
• Turkey Bacon or Coconut Bacon — Offers a lower-fat or plant-based alternative to traditional bacon with a smoky taste.
• Gluten-Free Breadcrumbs or Almond Flour — Ideal for a gluten-free version, adding a nutty crunch to the exterior.
• Zucchini Noodles (Zoodles) — A low-carb swap for pasta, keeping the dish light and vegetable-forward.
• Unsweetened Almond or Oat Milk — A dairy-free option for the cheese sauce that still delivers creaminess.
• Low-Sodium Broth and Cheese — Helps control salt intake without sacrificing the deep, savory flavors of the rolls.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair these Mac Cheese Bacon Burger Rolls with a crisp side salad or crunchy coleslaw to balance the rich, cheesy flavors.
• Serve as a standout game day appetizer or party snack with dipping sauces like spicy ketchup, ranch, or barbecue sauce.
• Offer alongside classic burger accompaniments such as steak fries, onion rings, or sweet potato fries for a complete meal.
• Perfect for family dinners, picnics, or casual gatherings where handheld comfort food is a hit.
• For a fun brunch twist, serve these rolls with a side of scrambled eggs or fresh fruit.
• Elevate presentation by garnishing with chopped fresh parsley or chives and serving on a wooden board or rustic platter.

These Mac Cheese Bacon Burger Rolls are versatile enough for any casual occasion, delivering crowd-pleasing flavor in every bite.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Mistake: Using cold mac and cheese straight from the fridge. Fix: Warm it slightly so it spreads easily and cooks evenly inside the roll.
• Mistake: Overfilling the dough with the mac and cheese mixture. Fix: Use a moderate amount to prevent leaks and ensure the dough seals properly.
• Mistake: Not cooking the bacon until crispy before adding. Fix: Crisp the bacon first so it doesn’t become soggy and adds the right texture.
• Mistake: Skipping the egg wash on the dough before baking. Fix: Brush with egg wash for a golden, glossy finish that looks appetizing.
• Mistake: Using a watery cheese sauce in the mac and cheese. Fix: Thicken your sauce with a roux or extra cheese to avoid a soggy, messy filling.
• Mistake: Rolling the dough too thin around the filling. Fix: Keep dough thick enough to contain the filling without tearing during baking.
• Mistake: Baking at too high a temperature, burning the outside. Fix: Bake at 375°F (190°C) for even cooking and a perfectly browned crust.
• Mistake: Not letting the rolls rest after baking. Fix: Allow a 5-minute cool-down so the filling sets and is easier to handle.
• Mistake: Overworking the dough when shaping the rolls. Fix: Handle gently to keep the dough tender and avoid a tough texture.
• Mistake: Forgetting to season the burger component adequately. Fix: Season the beef well with salt, pepper, and spices to boost overall flavor.

Storing Tips

• Fridge: Store leftover Mac Cheese Bacon Burger Rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezer: Wrap individual rolls tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container; they will keep for up to 2 months.
• Reheat: For best results, reheat in an oven preheated to 350°F until the internal temperature reaches 165°F, which typically takes 15–20 minutes if thawed, or 25–30 minutes if frozen.

Always allow your Mac Cheese Bacon Burger Rolls to cool to room temperature before storing to maintain texture and ensure food safety.

Conclusion

We hope you love making these delicious Mac and Cheese Bacon Burger Rolls as much as we do! If you try this recipe, please leave a comment with your thoughts. For more cheesy, savory dishes, check out our Easy Cheeseburger Meatloaf Cheddar Roll Recipe and Cheesy Sausage & Bacon Baked Dip Recipe. Don’t forget to subscribe for more quick recipe ideas!

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FAQs

Can I prepare Mac Cheese Bacon Burger Rolls ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the rolls a day in advance. Store them covered in the refrigerator and bake just before serving. This makes your Mac Cheese Bacon Burger Rolls perfect for parties.

What type of cheese works best for the mac and cheese filling?

Use a combination of sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack for a creamy, flavorful filling. These cheeses melt beautifully inside the Mac Cheese Bacon Burger Rolls, creating a rich texture.

How do I prevent the burger rolls from becoming soggy?

Ensure your cooked mac and cheese has cooled completely before assembling. Also, avoid overfilling the rolls to keep the pastry crisp. This helps maintain the perfect texture for your Mac Cheese Bacon Burger Rolls.