Name: Loaded Bacon Mac Cheeseburger Nacho Bombs
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (Feel free to swap with pepper jack for spice.); 1/2 cup cooked and crumbled bacon; 1/2 cup diced onion (Cook until translucent.); 1/2 cup diced pickles; 1 cup cooked macaroni (Cook slightly under to prevent mushiness.); 1 bag nacho chips; 1/4 cup ketchup; 1/4 cup mustard; 1/4 cup mayonnaise; 1/2 tsp garlic powder; 1/2 tsp onion powder; 1/4 tsp salt; 1/4 tsp black pepper

Step-by-step instructions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Brown the beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Add in the diced onion, cooking until it’s translucent.
Drain excess grease: Before mixing with the rest of the ingredients, drain any excess grease from the skillet.
Combine the mixture: In a large bowl, mix together the cooked macaroni, cheddar cheese, crumbled bacon, ketchup, mustard, mayonnaise, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Once it’s well-combined, fold in the seasoned ground beef mixture.
Layer the nachos: On a baking sheet, spread a layer of nacho chips. Spoon the mac and cheese mixture generously over the chips.
Top with cheese: Add an extra layer of shredded cheese on top.
Bake: Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Serve hot: Remove from the oven, allow to cool slightly, and dive into your Loaded Bacon Mac Cheeseburger Nacho Bombs!

Best ways to enjoy it

Serving these Loaded Bacon Mac Cheeseburger Nacho Bombs is a celebration in itself. You can serve them straight from the baking sheet for a casual dining experience or plate them beautifully with a sprinkle of fresh herbs on top for a touch of elegance. Pair them with your favorite dipping sauces, such as extra ketchup or a spicy ranch. For a complete meal, consider pairing them with a fresh salad or some crispy veggie sticks.

Storage and reheating tips

Leftover Loaded Bacon Mac Cheeseburger Nacho Bombs can be stored easily. Allow them to cool completely, then place them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. For longer storage, you can freeze them for up to a month. Just reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through for the best results, as microwaving may make them soggy.

Helpful cooking tips

Cook the macaroni slightly under: Since they’ll be baked again, cooking the macaroni a little less than al dente will prevent it from becoming mushy.
Customize your flavors: Feel free to add jalapeños, bell peppers, or your favorite spices for added flavor.
Meal prep: This dish can be prepared in advance, then baked just before serving, making it perfect for parties!

Creative twists

Want to take your Loaded Bacon Mac Cheeseburger Nacho Bombs to the next level? Here are some ideas:

Spicy version: Add diced jalapeños or your favorite hot sauce for an extra kick.
Vegetarian option: Swap out the ground beef for black beans and add extra veggies for a delicious meatless meal.
Cheesy variations: Experiment with different cheeses such as mozzarella or a blend of Italian cheeses for a twist on flavor.

Common questions

How long does it take to make Loaded Bacon Mac Cheeseburger Nacho Bombs?

From start to finish, this recipe takes approximately 30-40 minutes to prepare and bake.

Can I substitute the ground beef?

Absolutely! You can use ground turkey, chicken, or even a meat alternative like lentils or beans for a delicious vegetarian twist.

Are these nacho bombs freezer-friendly?

Yes! Once cooled, you can freeze individual portions and then reheat in the oven when ready to enjoy.

Now it’s time to gather your ingredients and get cooking! These Loaded Bacon Mac Cheeseburger Nacho Bombs will surely become a staple in your recipe arsenal, and every bite will remind you why comfort food is the best food. Enjoy!