Mac & Cheese Bacon Burger Rolls

These Mac & Cheese Bacon Burger Rolls combine all your favorite flavors into one irresistible, bite-sized treat. Juicy beef, crispy bacon, creamy mac and cheese, and golden pizza dough come together to create a dish that’s perfect for game day, parties, or a fun family dinner. With layers of savory goodness and a cheesy pull, these rolls are sure to be a hit!

Ingredients

For the Beef & Bacon Filling:

• 1 lb ground beef (80/20 lean works great for flavor)
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional but adds smoky depth)
• 1 cup cooked and crumbled bacon (about 8 strips)

For the Mac & Cheese:

• 2 cups prepared macaroni and cheese, cooled (homemade or store-bought)
• 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese (for added cheesiness)
• Optional: ¼ teaspoon mustard powder or a dash of hot sauce for tang

For the Dough:

• 1 can refrigerated pizza dough (store-bought for ease)
  • Or homemade dough if you prefer a personal touch

For Topping:

• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds or everything bagel seasoning (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Beef & Bacon

1. Heat a large skillet over medium heat .
2. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spatula, until fully browned and no pink remains—about 6–7 minutes .
3. Season the beef with salt , pepper , garlic powder , onion powder , and smoked paprika . Stir to combine.
4. Drain any excess fat from the pan to avoid a greasy filling.
5. Stir in the cooked, crumbled bacon until fully combined. Set aside and let cool slightly.

Pro Tip : For extra flavor, cook the bacon first in the skillet, then cook the beef in the bacon drippings.

Step 2: Prepare the Mac & Cheese

1. If using store-bought mac and cheese, prepare according to package instructions. Cool slightly before using.
2. Stir in extra shredded cheddar cheese for creaminess and that irresistible cheese-pull.
3. Allow the mac and cheese to cool for a few minutes to help it set, making it easier to roll later.

Quick Homemade Mac & Cheese :

• Boil 1½ cups elbow macaroni until al dente.
• Make a roux with 2 tbsp butter and 2 tbsp flour , whisking until smooth.
• Gradually whisk in 1½ cups milk and bring to a simmer until thickened.
• Remove from heat and stir in 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.
• Fold in the cooked pasta and let cool slightly.

Step 3: Roll the Dough

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) .
2. Roll out the pizza dough on a floured surface into a 12×18-inch rectangle .
3. Spread the mac and cheese evenly over the dough, leaving a 1-inch border on all sides.
4. Layer the beef and bacon mixture over the mac and cheese.
5. Roll up the dough tightly from the long edge, jelly-roll style. Pinch the seam to seal and place seam-side down.

Tip : If the dough is sticky or tearing, chill it for 10 minutes before rolling again.

Step 4: Slice & Arrange

1. Using a sharp knife or bench scraper, slice the log into 1½-inch-thick rolls —you should get about 10–12 rolls .
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange the rolls cut-side up, spaced slightly apart.

Step 5: Bake to Golden Perfection

1. Brush each roll with beaten egg for a shiny, golden crust.
2. Sprinkle with sesame seeds or everything bagel seasoning if desired.
3. Bake in the center of the oven for 20–25 minutes , or until the tops are golden brown and the cheese is bubbling.
4. Remove from the oven and let cool for 5–10 minutes before serving.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve warm with dipping sauces like ketchup , spicy mayo , ranch , or burger sauce .
• Garnish with fresh parsley or green onions for a pop of color.

Tips for Success

• Cook the bacon ahead : Save time by cooking the bacon earlier in the day or using pre-cooked bacon bits.
• Customize the cheese : Swap cheddar for Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or a blend for a different flavor profile.
• Make ahead : Assemble the rolls, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Add 2–3 minutes to the baking time if baking from cold.
• Freeze for later : Freeze unbaked rolls on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake directly from frozen, adding 5–10 minutes to the baking time.

Enjoy these Mac & Cheese Bacon Burger Rolls —a gooey, cheesy, and savory treat that’s packed with flavor and perfect for any occasion!