For the Burgers:
- 1 lb ground beef (or turkey for a lighter option)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
For the Mac & Cheese:
- 2 cups cooked elbow macaroni
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup milk (or cream for extra richness)
- 1 tablespoon butter
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For Assembly:
- 1 can (8 oz) refrigerated crescent roll dough (or croissant dough for a flakier texture)
- 8 slices of cooked bacon
- Optional: chopped green onions or parsley for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat and Prep
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
2. Cook the Burgers
- In a mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Mix gently until combined.
- Form the beef mixture into 8 small patties, about 2 inches in diameter.
- Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the patties for 2–3 minutes per side, or until browned but not fully cooked through (they’ll finish cooking in the oven). Remove and set aside.
3. Make the Mac & Cheese
- In a saucepan over low heat, melt the butter. Stir in the milk and cook until warm.
- Add the cooked macaroni, cheddar cheese, and mozzarella cheese. Stir until the cheese is melted and the macaroni is evenly coated. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Assemble the Rolls
- Unroll the crescent dough and separate it into triangles.
- Place a small spoonful of mac and cheese in the center of each triangle.
- Top the mac and cheese with a cooked beef patty and a slice of bacon (folded or crumbled if needed).
- Wrap the dough around the filling, pinching the edges to seal tightly. Place seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet.
5. Bake to Golden Perfection
- Bake the rolls for 12–15 minutes, or until the dough is golden brown and the filling is heated through.
- If desired, broil for 1–2 minutes at the end to achieve an extra-crispy exterior.
6. Garnish & Serve
- Let the rolls cool slightly before serving.
- Garnish with chopped green onions or parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
- Serve warm with ketchup, ranch dressing, or barbecue sauce for dipping.
Tips for Success
- Use Quality Ingredients: Freshly shredded cheese melts better than pre-shredded varieties.
- Don’t Overfill: Be careful not to overload the rolls with too much filling, as it may leak during baking.
- Make Ahead: Assemble the rolls up to a day in advance, cover, and refrigerate. Bake directly from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
- Switch Up the Dough: Use puff pastry or biscuit dough for a different texture.
- Add Extra Toppings: Include diced jalapeños, caramelized onions, or blue cheese crumbles for an elevated twist.
Why This Recipe Works
These Mac & Cheese Bacon Burger Rolls bring together the ultimate trio of comfort foods—savory beef patties, creamy mac and cheese, and crispy crescent roll dough—into one irresistible package. The combination of textures and flavors creates a dish that’s rich, satisfying, and utterly crave-worthy. Whether served as an appetizer, snack, or main course, they’re guaranteed to be a hit at any gathering.
Conclusion: A Comfort Food Masterpiece
Whether you’re hosting a game-day party, looking for a fun dinner idea, or simply craving something indulgent, these Mac & Cheese Bacon Burger Rolls are sure to impress. Their bold flavors, gooey fillings, and golden exteriors make them a standout dish that’s as fun to make as it is to eat. Plus, their customizable nature ensures there’s something for everyone to love.
We’d love to see your creations! Tag us in your photos or share your favorite variations—your twist on these burger rolls might just inspire others to try them too! 🍔🧀✨