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Nothing turns heads like classic comfort food inside another classic comfort food Mac and cheese stuffed burgers are pure joy wrapped inside a juicy beef patty Their golden cheesy middle always surprises at the first bite and this playful mash up quickly became a weekend favorite in our house Burgers ooze creamy cheddar pasta with every bite and it never fails to bring smiles to the table
I first tried this for a game day and my friends still talk about them It is now a must make for all our big gatherings
Ingredients
- Mac and cheese from a box: Use your favorite variety for best taste I like a classic one with plenty of sauce
- Shredded cheddar cheese: Melts smoothly for an extra gooey filling Opt for a sharp cheddar for the boldest flavor
- Ground beef: Choose 80 percent lean beef for juicy patties without dryness
- Burger buns: Pick sturdy brioche or potato rolls so they hold up to the filling
- Toppings: Use your favorites like tomatoes lettuce and toasted breadcrumbs for crunch Aim for fresh and bright toppings to balance the richness
- Cheese selection tip: When picking cheese look for blocks you grate yourself for maximum melt Avoid already shredded bags since they often contain anti caking agents
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Cook the Mac and Cheese:
- Prepare your boxed mac and cheese exactly as the package directs Use plenty of water and stir the pasta as it cooks so it is evenly tender
- Thicken and Add Cheese:
- Put the drained pasta back in the saucepan Simmer gently for about one minute until the sauce is thicker and coats the noodles fully Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until every noodle is silky and cheesy This helps create the right texture for stuffing
- Form the Mac and Cheese Rounds:
- Line a baking sheet with parchment Spread the hot cheesy pasta in an even layer no more than three fourths inch thick Lay another piece of parchment over top and press down to flatten Chill in the refrigerator for at least one hour until very firm
- Cut and Wrap with Beef:
- Take the chilled mac and cheese and use a cookie cutter or glass to cut out circular rounds Shape a thin layer of ground beef around each mac and cheese round pressing gently to ensure no gaps or holes in the beef
- Cook the Stuffed Burgers:
- Heat a grill or skillet over medium heat Place the stuffed patties carefully Cook for four to five minutes on each side Watch closely for leaks Once you spot mac and cheese peeking out remove burgers from heat immediately
- Assemble and Serve:
- Place burgers on toasted buns Add toppings like sliced tomato toasted breadcrumbs or crispy lettuce Serve hot for the gooey cheese center to shine
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My favorite part is the golden crust on the mac and cheese center The way my brother begged for seconds after the first bite is still one of our best kitchen memories
Storage Tips
Leftover stuffed burgers keep covered in the fridge for up to two days To reheat use a low oven or skillet with a splash of water and cover loosely This keeps the burger juicy and the cheese in the center from drying out Freezing is not ideal since the pasta texture can change but it works in a pinch
Ingredient Substitutions
Swap ground beef for turkey or plant based meat substitutes for a different twist You can use any boxed mac and cheese or homemade if you have time For the cheese mix in pepper jack or fontina for a fun change Brioche gluten free or even English muffin buns all work
Serving Suggestions
Top burgers with tomato slices and a sprinkle of toasted breadcrumbs to mimic oven baked mac and cheese A side salad or tangy pickles balances out the richness These are perfect for cookouts but also great cut in half as party sliders
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History of the Mash Up
Stuffed burgers have been a diner craze for decades The idea of putting cheese or fillings inside ground meat is classic but this mac and cheese version puts an American spin on a comfort food favorite It is beloved by kids and anyone who loves a surprise inside
Recipe FAQs
- → How do I keep the mac and cheese from leaking out while cooking?
Chill the mac and cheese thoroughly to help it hold its shape, wrap the beef tightly, and monitor closely during cooking. Pull burgers from heat as soon as any filling starts to ooze to maintain a gooey center.
- → Can I use homemade mac and cheese for the filling?
Yes, homemade mac and cheese works well. Just ensure it is thick and cool it completely before assembling to make stuffing easier.
- → What toppings go well with these burgers?
Traditional burger toppings like lettuce, tomato, pickles, and onions pair nicely, but toasted breadcrumbs and sliced tomatoes provide a nod to classic baked macaroni flavors.
- → Do I need extra cheese besides the box mix?
Adding shredded cheddar to the mac and cheese mixture helps it become creamier and more solid for stuffing, but it's optional based on your preference.
- → What's the best way to cook these burgers?
Grill or pan-cook over medium heat, watching carefully to avoid overcooking and prevent the filling from bursting out.