Description
A budget-friendly fusion burger that uses cold leftover mac and cheese as the base for a crispy, cheesy patty, topped with smoky bacon. It’s a quick, comforting meal that combines two American classics into one handheld masterpiece.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 cups cold leftover mac and cheese
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 cup plain dried breadcrumbs (or Panko)
- 1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 6–8 strips bacon, cooked crispy and crumbled
- Butter or oil for frying
- 4 burger buns (Brioche or Potato)
Instructions
- Cook bacon in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes until crispy. Drain on paper towels, cool, and crumble into small pieces.
- Ensure the mac and cheese is cold and firm. If warm, refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cold mac and cheese, egg, breadcrumbs, shredded cheddar, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until evenly distributed.
- Divide the mixture into four equal portions. Shape each into a 1/2-inch thick patty, making a slight indentation in the center. Chill patties in the refrigerator for 15-20 minutes.
- Heat a skillet over medium heat with butter or oil. Fry two patties for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and heated through.
- Toast burger buns in the same pan. Assemble burgers with the patty, crumbled bacon, and desired condiments. Serve immediately.
Notes
Leftover cold mac and cheese works best as it firms up and binds better than fresh. If using fresh mac and cheese, chill it thoroughly first. For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free pasta and breadcrumbs. You can bake the patties at 375°F for 15-20 minutes if you prefer not to fry, though frying provides a crispier texture.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 burger with bun an
- Calories: 650
- Sugar: 6
- Sodium: 900
- Fat: 35
- Saturated Fat: 15
- Carbohydrates: 45
- Fiber: 2
- Protein: 25
Keywords: mac and cheese burger, bacon burger, budget meals, comfort food, leftover mac and cheese, easy dinner, fusion recipe