Bacon Cheeseburger Mac and Cheese: A High-Protein Comfort Food Dream
If you’ve ever wished you could combine the savory flavors of a bacon cheeseburger with the creamy comfort of mac and cheese, this recipe is for you. Bacon Cheeseburger Mac and Cheese is a high-protein, indulgent dish that brings together lean ground beef, crispy turkey bacon, and a velvety cheddar sauce. It’s the ultimate fusion of two classic comfort foods, perfect for satisfying your cravings while keeping things balanced and nutritious.
I first came up with this recipe during a busy week when I was craving something hearty but didn’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. The result was this delicious mashup that quickly became a family favorite. It’s a dish that feels indulgent yet is packed with protein and flavor, making it ideal for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or even game-day gatherings.
This recipe is special because it captures the essence of a bacon cheeseburger—juicy beef, smoky bacon, and melty cheese—while delivering the creamy, comforting goodness of mac and cheese. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s sure to impress, whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting friends.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- High-Protein and Satisfying: With lean ground beef, turkey bacon, and cottage cheese, this dish is packed with protein to keep you full and energized.
- Comfort Food Upgrade: It’s a gourmet twist on two classic favorites—mac and cheese and bacon cheeseburgers.
- Meal Prep Friendly: Makes six generous portions, perfect for meal prep or feeding a crowd.
- Customizable: Add your favorite burger toppings like pickles, onions, or even a drizzle of ketchup and mustard.
- Easy to Make: Simple steps and minimal prep time make this recipe a breeze to whip up.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s what you’ll need to make this hearty, cheesy dish:
- 240g (2 cups) whole wheat elbow macaroni (or substitute with regular elbow macaroni or gluten-free pasta)
- 450g (1 lb) lean ground beef (93/7) (or substitute with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option)
- 4 slices turkey bacon, cooked and crumbled (or use regular bacon if preferred)
- 170g (6 oz) reduced-fat cheddar cheese (or use full-fat cheddar for extra richness)
- 150g (1/2 cup) blended cottage cheese (for added creaminess and protein)
- 120ml (1/2 cup) unsweetened almond milk (or substitute with regular milk or any plant-based milk)
- 30g (2 Tbsp) light butter (or substitute with regular butter or olive oil)
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Preparation: Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Beef
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the lean ground beef until fully browned, breaking it into small pieces with a spatula. Season with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Drain any excess fat and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Cheese Sauce
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the light butter. Add the unsweetened almond milk, blended cottage cheese, and shredded cheddar cheese. Stir continuously until the cheeses are fully melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
Step 4: Combine Everything
In a large mixing bowl, toss the cooked macaroni with the cheese sauce until evenly coated. Gently fold in the cooked ground beef and crumbled turkey bacon, ensuring everything is well combined.
Step 5: Serve & Store
Divide the Bacon Cheeseburger Mac and Cheese into six equal portions for meal prep. Serve immediately, or store in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave for 2-3 minutes before serving.
Variations & Substitutions
This recipe is incredibly versatile. Here are some ideas to customize it to your liking:
- Add Burger Toppings: Stir in diced pickles, chopped onions, or a drizzle of ketchup and mustard for an authentic cheeseburger flavor.
- Vegetarian Option: Skip the beef and bacon, and add plant-based ground meat and vegan bacon.
- Different Cheeses: Experiment with cheeses like pepper jack, Gouda, or Swiss for unique flavor profiles.
- Spice It Up: Add a dash of hot sauce or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
- Extra Veggies: Stir in sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or diced tomatoes for added nutrition.
How to Serve Bacon Cheeseburger Mac and Cheese
This dish is a complete meal on its own, but you can elevate it with a few simple additions:
- Side Salad: Pair with a crisp green salad dressed with a tangy vinaigrette to balance the richness of the mac and cheese.
- Garlic Bread: Serve with warm garlic bread or buttery dinner rolls for dipping.
- Pickles and Onions: Add a side of pickles or caramelized onions for a classic burger touch.
- Beer Pairing: Enjoy with a cold beer or a glass of red wine for the ultimate comfort food experience.
Recipe Tips
- Use High-Quality Cheese: Freshly shredded cheddar cheese melts better than pre-shredded varieties.
- Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Cook the macaroni until al dente to prevent it from becoming mushy when mixed with the sauce.
- Drain Excess Fat: After cooking the ground beef, drain any excess fat to keep the dish from being too greasy.
- Reheat Gently: When reheating leftovers, add a splash of milk or cream to restore the sauce’s creaminess.
Cooking Notes
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 720
- Protein: 54g
- Carbohydrates: 60g
- Fat: 28g
FAQs
1. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! This dish is perfect for meal prep. Store it in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days and reheat before serving.
2. Can I freeze Bacon Cheeseburger Mac and Cheese?
While you can freeze it, the texture of the sauce may change slightly upon reheating. For best results, freeze the beef and sauce separately, then combine with freshly cooked pasta after thawing.
3. What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
Reheat in the microwave for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through. Add a splash of milk or cream to keep the sauce creamy.
4. Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! Penne, shells, or cavatappi work well as substitutes for elbow macaroni.
5. How can I make this dish spicier?
Add diced jalapeños, a dash of hot sauce, or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper to the cheese sauce for extra heat.
Conclusion
Bacon Cheeseburger Mac and Cheese is the ultimate comfort food mashup—a dish that combines the best of both worlds. With its juicy ground beef, smoky bacon, and creamy cheddar sauce, it’s a meal that’s as satisfying to make as it is to eat. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or serving it at your next gathering, this recipe is sure to be a hit.
So, grab your ingredients, fire up the stove, and get ready to enjoy a dish that’s hearty, cheesy, and utterly delicious. Happy cooking!
