Name: Mac Cheese Bacon Burger Rolls
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 50 min
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef (You can substitute with ground turkey or chicken.); 1 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 1/2 tsp garlic powder; 1/2 tsp onion powder; 8 oz macaroni (Cook according to package instructions.); 2 cups cheddar cheese (Experiment with other cheeses for different flavors.); 4 slices cooked bacon, crumbled; 1 package crescent roll dough (Unroll before using.)

Step-by-step instructions

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Cook macaroni according to package instructions; drain it and set aside.
In a bowl, mix the ground beef with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
Shape the beef mixture into small patties and pan-fry them on medium heat until browned.
In another bowl, combine the cooked macaroni, cheddar cheese, and crumbled bacon for the filling.
Unroll the crescent roll dough and cut it into squares for easy handling.
Place a patty and a generous spoonful of the mac and cheese mixture in the center of each square.
Fold the dough over the filling and carefully seal the edges to prevent leaking.
Arrange the rolls on a baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until they are golden brown and flaky.
Allow to cool slightly before serving—this will help keep the filling from being too hot to eat.

Best ways to enjoy it

These Mac Cheese Bacon Burger Rolls are delicious on their own, but you can elevate the dining experience with some creative pairings. Serve them alongside a simple green salad to balance out the richness, or whip up some spicy ketchup or ranch dressing for dipping. For a more festive occasion, consider serving them with sweet potato fries or a gourmet relish. Your guests will appreciate the variety!

Storage and reheating tips

If you have leftovers (though I doubt that will happen!), store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. You can also freeze them. Just wrap the rolls tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag. They’ll keep well in the freezer for up to a month. Be sure to label and date your containers for easy reference.

Helpful cooking tips

Cooking doesn’t have to be overwhelming! Here are some easy tips to make your experience with these rolls more successful:

Pre-cook the beef patties: If you’re short on time, consider cooking the patties in advance. They’ll be ready to mix with the macaroni and cheese when you’re ready to assemble.
Keep an eye on baking: Ovens can vary, so keep an eye on the rolls during the last few minutes of baking to achieve that perfect golden-brown color without burning them.
Make it a family affair: Involve the kids! Let them help roll the dough or fill them—cooking together is a great bonding experience!

Creative twists

Feeling adventurous? Here are some fun variations to put a unique spin on your Mac Cheese Bacon Burger Rolls:

Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or cooked chorizo to the mac and cheese for a zesty punch.
Veggie Lover’s Delight: Mix in some sautéed spinach or bell peppers with the macaroni for added nutrition.
Gourmet Style: Swap out cheddar for a blend of gourmet cheeses such as Gruyère and fontina for a richer flavor profile.

Common questions

What is the prep time for this recipe?

Preparation should take about 30 minutes, while cooking will take another 15-20 minutes, making it a great dish for a weeknight meal.

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be delicious substitutes if you’re looking for a lighter or healthier option.

How can I keep leftover rolls fresh?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. You can also freeze them for longer storage, keeping in mind to reheat thoroughly before enjoying!