Smoky Bacon Mac and Cheese Burger with Crispy Tater Tots Recipe
Looking for the ultimate Smoky Bacon Mac and Cheese Burger recipe? This over-the-top comfort food masterpiece features a juicy beef burger topped with creamy homemade mac and cheese, crispy smoked bacon, melted cheddar, and smoky BBQ sauce, all served on a toasted brioche bun with crispy golden tater tots. Perfect for game days, cookouts, weekend dinners, or whenever you’re craving an unforgettable burger experience.
❤️ Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Thick, juicy homemade beef burger
Creamy, cheesy mac and cheese topping
Crispy smoky bacon in every bite
Toasted buttery brioche bun
Crispy golden tater tots on the side
Restaurant-quality comfort food
⏱️ Recipe Details
Prep Time: 25 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories: Approximately 1,050 kcal per serving
Protein: 48 g per serving
🛒 Ingredients
For the Burgers
2 lb (900 g) ground beef (80/20)
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
4 slices sharp cheddar cheese 🧀
4 brioche burger buns
2 tablespoons butter (for toasting buns)
For the Mac and Cheese
2 cups elbow macaroni
2 tablespoons butter
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 cups whole milk
2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
½ cup shredded mozzarella
½ teaspoon Dijon mustard
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Toppings
8 slices smoked bacon, cooked until crispy 🥓
½ cup BBQ sauce
¼ cup crispy fried onions (optional)
Pickle slices
Lettuce
Tomato slices
Side
1 bag frozen tater tots 🍟
Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
👨🍳 Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Tater Tots
Bake or air fry the tater tots according to the package directions until crispy and golden.
Keep warm.
Step 2: Make the Mac and Cheese
Cook the macaroni until al dente.
Drain and set aside.
In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute.
Gradually whisk in the milk until smooth.
Cook until slightly thickened.
Stir in:
Cheddar cheese
Mozzarella
Dijon mustard
Salt
Black pepper
Fold in the cooked macaroni and keep warm.
Step 3: Prepare the Burger Patties
Mix the ground beef with:
Salt
Black pepper
Smoked paprika
Garlic powder
Onion powder
Form into 4 thick patties.
Grill or sear over medium-high heat for 4–5 minutes per side, or until your preferred doneness.
During the final minute, top each patty with a slice of cheddar cheese and allow it to melt.
Step 4: Toast the Buns
Butter the cut sides of the brioche buns.
Toast on a skillet or grill for 1–2 minutes until lightly golden.
Step 5: Assemble the Burgers
Layer each bun with:
Lettuce
Cheeseburger patty
Crispy bacon
A generous scoop of mac and cheese
BBQ sauce
Crispy fried onions (optional)
Tomato slices
Pickles
Place the top bun over the fillings.
Step 6: Serve
Serve immediately with crispy tater tots on the side.
Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
Pair with:
Coleslaw
Onion rings
Dill pickles
Corn on the cob
Ranch dressing
Garlic aioli
Chocolate milkshake
💡 Chef’s Tips
Use 80/20 ground beef for a juicy burger.
Freshly shred the cheese for the smoothest mac and cheese.
Toast the buns to keep them from getting soggy.
Let the burgers rest for 3–5 minutes before assembling to keep them juicy.
🧊 Storage
Refrigerator: Store burger components separately in airtight containers for up to 3 days.
Freezer: Freeze cooked burger patties for up to 2 months. Mac and cheese is best enjoyed fresh.
Reheating: Warm the patties in a skillet and reheat the mac and cheese gently with a splash of milk.
🥗 Nutrition (Per Serving)
Calories: 1,050 kcal
Protein: 48 g
Carbohydrates: 58 g
Fat: 68 g
Saturated Fat: 28 g
Fiber: 4 g
Sugar: 10 g
Sodium: 1,420 mg
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different cheese?
Yes. Pepper Jack, Gouda, Monterey Jack, smoked cheddar, or Swiss cheese all work wonderfully.
Can I cook the burgers in an air fryer?
Yes. Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway through, then add the cheese during the final minute.
Can I make the mac and cheese ahead of time?
Absolutely. Prepare it up to a day ahead and reheat gently with a splash of milk before assembling the burgers.
What sides go well with this burger?
Tater tots, French fries, onion rings, potato wedges, coleslaw, baked beans, or a crisp garden salad are all excellent choices.
