Mac and Cheese Bacon Burger Rolls Recipe

Introduction

These Mac and Cheese Bacon Burger Rolls are the ultimate comfort food mashup, combining juicy burger patties with creamy macaroni and cheese, all wrapped in crispy bacon. This simple and delicious recipe delivers incredible flavor with minimal effort, perfect for weeknight dinners or game day gatherings. For another crowd-pleasing pasta dish, try the Cowboy Pasta Salad Recipe.

Ingredients

These Mac Cheese Bacon Burger Rolls combine the savory satisfaction of a juicy burger with the creamy comfort of mac and cheese, all wrapped in a warm tortilla for the ultimate handheld meal.

• 1 pound ground beef (80/20 recommended)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 2 cups cooked elbow macaroni
• 1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 6 slices bacon, cooked until crispy and crumbled
• 1/4 cup ketchup
• 1/4 cup yellow mustard
• 8 large flour tortillas (burrito size)

Timing

Prep Time	15 minutes
Cook Time	25 minutes
Total Time	40 minutes

Context: These Mac Cheese Bacon Burger Rolls are about 20% faster than similar recipes, making them a great quick meal option.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1 — Prepare the Mac and Cheese

Cook 1 cup elbow macaroni according to package directions until al dente. Drain well and set aside.

In a saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons butter over medium heat. Whisk in 2 tablespoons flour and cook for 1 minute. Gradually whisk in 1 cup milk until smooth.

Bring to a simmer, then stir in 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese until melted and creamy. Fold in the cooked macaroni. Let cool slightly before using.

Step 2 — Cook the Bacon and Beef

Cook 6 slices bacon until crisp, then crumble. Reserve 1 tablespoon bacon drippings.

In a skillet, brown 1 pound ground beef with the bacon drippings over medium-high heat. Season with 1 teaspoon garlic powder, ½ teaspoon onion powder, salt, and pepper. Drain excess fat.

Step 3 — Combine the Filling

In a large bowl, mix the cooked beef, crumbled bacon, and prepared mac and cheese until well combined.

Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Let the mixture cool enough to handle easily.

Step 4 — Assemble the Rolls

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Separate 1 can (8 count) refrigerated crescent roll dough into triangles. Spoon about ¼ cup filling onto the wide end of each triangle.

Roll up from the wide end, tucking in the sides to seal the filling. Place seam-side down on the baking sheet.

Step 5 — Add Topping and Bake

Brush each Mac Cheese Bacon Burger Roll with melted butter and sprinkle with sesame seeds or everything bagel seasoning.

Bake for 15–18 minutes, or until the rolls are golden brown and the filling is heated through.

Step 6 — Check for Doneness

The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C) when checked with an instant-read thermometer.

The crescent dough should be deeply golden and flaky, with no raw dough visible.

Step 7 — Cool and Serve

Let the Mac Cheese Bacon Burger Rolls rest for 5 minutes before serving—this helps the filling set.

Serve warm with ketchup, ranch, or your favorite burger sauce for dipping.

Nutritional Information

Calories	520
Protein	28g
Carbohydrates	38g
Fat	27g
Fiber	2g
Sodium	980mg

Note: Estimates based on typical ingredients and serving size.

Healthier Alternatives

• Ground Turkey or Chicken — Leaner protein option that maintains savory flavor while reducing overall fat content.
• Whole Wheat or Cauliflower Buns — Lower-carb alternatives that add fiber or reduce carbohydrates significantly.
• Dairy-Free Cheese Sauce — Made with nutritional yeast or plant-based cheeses for those avoiding dairy.
• Turkey Bacon or Coconut Bacon — Provides smoky flavor with less saturated fat than traditional pork bacon.
• Gluten-Free Pasta — Use rice, quinoa, or lentil pasta in the mac and cheese component for a gluten-free version.
• Low-Sodium Cheese & Broth — Reduces sodium intake while keeping the cheesy essence intact.
• Veggie Burger Patties — Plant-based protein alternative that works well with the mac and cheese filling.
• Greek Yogurt Cheese Sauce — Creates a creamier, protein-packed sauce with less fat than traditional cheese sauces.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair your Mac Cheese Bacon Burger Rolls with a crisp garden salad or coleslaw to balance the richness.
• Serve alongside seasoned fries or sweet potato wedges for a complete comfort meal.
• Ideal for game day gatherings, picnics, or casual family dinners where handheld food is preferred.
• Offer with dipping sauces like ranch, barbecue, or spicy ketchup to enhance the flavor profile.
• Present on a rustic wooden board or colorful platter for a visually appealing party spread.
• Accompany with pickles, onion rings, or fresh vegetable sticks for added crunch and freshness.

These Mac Cheese Bacon Burger Rolls are versatile and satisfying, making them a hit at any casual event or weeknight dinner.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Mistake: Using cold mac and cheese that doesn’t bind well. Fix: Use freshly made, warm mac and cheese for better adhesion and easier rolling.
• Mistake: Overfilling the rolls causing them to burst. Fix: Use a moderate ¼ cup of filling per roll to maintain structural integrity during baking.
• Mistake: Undercooking the bacon, leaving it chewy inside. Fix: Pre-cook bacon until crispy so it adds crunch without making the rolls greasy.
• Mistake: Skipping the egg wash for a pale finish. Fix: Brush rolls with beaten egg before baking for a beautifully golden, professional crust.
• Mistake: Overworking the dough, making it tough. Fix: Handle dough gently and minimally after adding fillings to keep the texture light.
• Mistake: Not sealing edges properly, leading to leaks. Fix: Pinch seams firmly and place seam-side down to lock in the cheesy burger filling.
• Mistake: Baking at too high a temperature, burning the outside. Fix: Bake at 375°F (190°C) for even cooking and a perfectly melted interior.
• Mistake: Serving immediately without resting. Fix: Let rolls cool for 5 minutes so the filling sets and doesn’t run out when bitten.
• Mistake: Using bland beef seasoning. Fix: Season burger meat generously with Worcestershire, garlic powder, and paprika for depth.
• Mistake: Storing leftovers improperly, causing sogginess. Fix: Cool completely and store in an airtight container; reheat in an oven or air fryer to restore crispness.

Storing Tips

• Fridge: Store Mac Cheese Bacon Burger Rolls in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days. Ensure they cool to room temperature before refrigerating to maintain texture.
• Freezer: Wrap each roll individually in plastic wrap or foil, then place in a freezer-safe bag or container. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Reheat: For best results, reheat in an oven preheated to 350°F (175°C) until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C), about 10–15 minutes. You can also use an air fryer or microwave, but the oven method keeps them crispiest.

Always check that your Mac Cheese Bacon Burger Rolls reach a safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) when reheating to ensure food safety.

Conclusion

These Mac Cheese Bacon Burger Rolls are the ultimate comfort food mashup. If you loved this recipe, try our Easy Cheeseburger Meatloaf Cheddar Roll next. Don’t forget to rate the recipe and subscribe for more delicious ideas!

Print

Mac and Cheese Bacon Burger Rolls

Print Recipe

These Mac and Cheese Bacon Burger Rolls are a delicious fusion of creamy mac and cheese, seasoned ground beef, crispy bacon, and classic burger condiments, all wrapped in a golden tortilla for a handheld comfort meal.

• Author: Sophie Lane
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 8 1x
• Method: Main Course
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 pound ground beef (80/20 recommended)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 2 cups cooked elbow macaroni
• 1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 6 slices bacon, cooked until crispy and crumbled
• 1/4 cup ketchup
• 1/4 cup yellow mustard
• 8 large flour tortillas (burrito size)

Instructions

1. Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Cook until browned and fully cooked through. Drain excess fat and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine the cooked macaroni, shredded cheddar cheese, crumbled bacon, ketchup, and mustard. Mix well.
3. Add the cooked ground beef to the mac and cheese mixture and stir until evenly combined.
4. Lay out the tortillas on a flat surface. Divide the filling evenly among the tortillas, placing it in the center of each.
5. Roll up each tortilla tightly, tucking in the sides as you go, to form a burrito-style roll.
6. Optional: Heat a skillet or griddle over medium heat and lightly toast the rolls until golden and crispy on both sides.
7. Serve warm and enjoy immediately.

Notes

For extra crunch, lightly toast the rolls in a skillet after assembling. These rolls are best served fresh but can be reheated in a skillet or oven for a few minutes if needed.

Nutrition

• Calories: 420
• Sugar: 5
• Sodium: 850
• Fat: 24
• Saturated Fat: 10
• Unsaturated Fat: 12
• Trans Fat: 1
• Carbohydrates: 32
• Fiber: 2
• Protein: 20
• Cholesterol: 65

FAQs

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

Yes, you can assemble these Mac Cheese Bacon Burger Rolls a day in advance. Keep them covered in the refrigerator until you are ready to bake. This makes them perfect for easy entertaining.

What is the best way to prevent the rolls from getting soggy?

Ensure your cooked mac and cheese has cooled completely before assembling the Mac Cheese Bacon Burger Rolls. Using a thicker cheese sauce and thoroughly cooked, crumbled bacon will also help maintain the structure and prevent sogginess.

Can I use a different type of meat in this recipe?

Absolutely. While the recipe features a classic burger base, you can substitute ground turkey, chicken, or a plant-based alternative. Just be sure to season it well to complement the rich mac and cheese and bacon flavors.