If you are looking for a fun, indulgent twist on two beloved comfort foods, the Macaroni and Cheese Waffle Cheeseburgers Recipe is absolutely going to steal your heart. Imagine golden, crispy macaroni and cheese waffles hugging juicy burger patties loaded with melty cheese and your favorite toppings. This recipe is all about combining creamy, cheesy pasta with the satisfying crunch of a waffle and the hearty goodness of a cheeseburger, creating a flavor explosion that is downright unforgettable. Whether you’re treating yourself or impressing friends, these waffle cheeseburgers offer the perfect marriage of texture and taste that feels like pure joy in every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are simple but essential; each one brings something special to this Macaroni and Cheese Waffle Cheeseburgers Recipe. From the creamy sharp cheddar to the perfectly cooked pasta, every element plays a crucial role in flavor, texture, and that beautiful golden color.
- 1 cup elbow macaroni: The classic pasta shape for ideal cheese sauce cling and structure.
- 1 tablespoon butter: Adds richness and helps create the roux for a smooth cheese sauce.
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour: Thickens the cheese sauce to the perfect consistency.
- 1 cup milk: Creates the base for the creamy cheese sauce.
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese: Delivers that iconic tang and gooey melt.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Brings a subtle depth of flavor to the cheese sauce.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Balances and enhances all the flavors.
- 1 cup cooked ground beef or turkey: Adds a hearty, savory element to the filling.
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce: Gives the meat a savory umami boost.
- 1 cup waffle batter (store-bought or homemade): For creating the perfect base waffles to sandwich your fillings.
- Cooking spray or oil: Keeps your waffle iron clean and waffles crispy.
- Optional toppings (pickles, lettuce, ketchup, mustard): Customize your burgers perfectly to your taste.
How to Make Macaroni and Cheese Waffle Cheeseburgers Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Macaroni
Start by cooking your elbow macaroni according to the package instructions until it is just al dente. This ensures the pasta retains a slight bite and won’t become mushy when mixed with the cheese sauce. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside to prepare the luscious cheese sauce.
Step 2: Create the Cheese Sauce
In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter, then whisk in the flour to create a smooth roux. This is the magic base that thickens the sauce beautifully. Slowly add your milk, whisking constantly, and let it come to a gentle simmer. After thickening, stir in the sharp cheddar cheese, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until the sauce is velvety and melty.
Step 3: Combine Pasta and Meat
Pour the cheese sauce over the cooked macaroni and stir well to coat every piece. Next, fold in the cooked ground beef or turkey along with the Worcestershire sauce to infuse a savory richness that complements the cheese perfectly. This mixture is the star filling of your waffle cheeseburgers.
Step 4: Prepare and Cook the Waffles
Preheat your waffle iron and spray it lightly with cooking spray or brush with oil to prevent sticking. Pour a generous scoop of the macaroni and cheese mixture onto the waffle iron and spread it evenly. Close the lid and cook until the waffles are golden brown and wonderfully crispy, which usually takes about 5 to 7 minutes.
Step 5: Assemble the Macaroni and Cheese Waffle Cheeseburgers
Gently remove each waffle from the iron. To build your masterpiece, place one waffle on a plate, top it with a burger patty and cheese, then add your favorite toppings like lettuce or pickles, and crown with another macaroni and cheese waffle. Repeat until you have as many delicious burgers as you desire. Serve immediately for the best taste experience.
How to Serve Macaroni and Cheese Waffle Cheeseburgers Recipe
Garnishes
Adding garnishes like crunchy pickles, crisp lettuce, or a drizzle of ketchup and mustard can elevate the Macaroni and Cheese Waffle Cheeseburgers Recipe even further. These provide fresh contrasts and a pop of color that brighten the plate and complement the richness of the waffles and meat.
Side Dishes
Pair your waffle cheeseburgers with simple sides like crispy French fries, a fresh green salad, or even sweet potato wedges. The robust flavors of the burger call for sides that can either share the spotlight or add balanced freshness to your meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a crowd-pleasing presentation, try stacking slider-sized Macaroni and Cheese Waffle Cheeseburgers on a platter, or serve deconstructed with mini waffles and separate topping bowls for a fun, interactive meal. You could also slice the waffles into smaller bites and serve them as appetizers with dipping sauces for parties.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Macaroni and Cheese Waffle Cheeseburgers can be tightly wrapped in plastic wrap or stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to 3 days, making them perfect for quick lunches or easy dinners later in the week.
Freezing
If you want to prepare ahead, you can freeze the macaroni and cheese waffles separately once cooled. Place parchment paper between waffles and store them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep well for up to two months, ready to be re-crisped whenever you crave this amazing dish.
Reheating
To reheat, pop the waffles in a toaster oven or regular oven at medium heat to regain their crispy texture. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make them soggy. Adding the burger ingredients fresh ensures your reheated meal still tastes as great as the first time.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cheese in the Macaroni and Cheese Waffle Cheeseburgers Recipe?
Absolutely! While sharp cheddar gives that classic punch, you can experiment with cheeses like gouda, mozzarella, or pepper jack for different flavor profiles. Just make sure to use a good melting cheese to keep the waffles creamy inside.
Is it better to use ground beef or turkey?
Both ground beef and turkey work wonderfully in this recipe. Ground beef will give you a richer flavor, while turkey makes it a bit lighter. Choose based on your preference or dietary needs without worrying about losing the essence of the dish.
Can I prepare the macaroni and cheese waffles ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the waffles ahead and refrigerate or freeze them. Just reheat as directed before assembling your Macaroni and Cheese Waffle Cheeseburgers Recipe to enjoy optimal crispness and warmth.
What if I don’t have a waffle iron?
A waffle iron is key to achieving the unique texture, but in a pinch, you could try cooking the macaroni and cheese patties in a well-oiled skillet to get a crispy crust. The texture will differ, but the flavors remain delicious.
Can the recipe be made gluten-free?
Definitely! Use gluten-free pasta, gluten-free flour or a cornstarch substitute for the roux, and ensure your waffle batter is gluten-free as well. This way, you can enjoy the Macaroni and Cheese Waffle Cheeseburgers Recipe without any gluten concerns.
Final Thoughts
If you love comfort food with a happy twist, you have to try the Macaroni and Cheese Waffle Cheeseburgers Recipe. It’s playful, indulgent, and truly satisfies every craving for crispy, cheesy, and meaty goodness all at once. Once you make this, it’s going to turn into a go-to favorite you’ll want to share with everyone. So go on, gather your ingredients and dive into this delicious adventure—you won’t regret it!
Print
Macaroni and Cheese Waffle Cheeseburgers Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Waffle Iron Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Macaroni and Cheese WAFFLE Cheeseburger recipe combines creamy mac and cheese with savory ground beef and waffles to create a fun and delicious ultimate comfort food. The macaroni and cheese is cooked to perfection, mixed with seasoned ground meat, and then crisped in a waffle iron to form unique, crispy waffles that sandwich burger toppings for an indulgent twist on the classic cheeseburger.
Ingredients
Pasta and Cheese Sauce
- 1 cup elbow macaroni
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- 1 cup milk
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Meat Mixture
- 1 cup cooked ground beef or turkey
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
Waffle Batter and Cooking
- 1 cup waffle batter (store-bought or homemade)
- Cooking spray or oil, for waffle iron
Optional Toppings
- Pickles
- Lettuce
- Ketchup
- Mustard
Instructions
- Cook the Macaroni: In a large pot, cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside to cool slightly.
- Prepare the Cheese Sauce: In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the flour and stir constantly for about 1 minute to form a roux. Gradually whisk in the milk and bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring continuously until it thickens.
- Add Cheese and Seasonings: Once thickened, remove from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until fully melted and smooth, creating a creamy cheese sauce.
- Combine Macaroni and Meat: In a large bowl, mix the cooked macaroni with the cheese sauce, cooked ground beef or turkey, and Worcestershire sauce until the ingredients are well combined.
- Preheat Waffle Iron: Lightly grease your waffle iron with cooking spray or oil and preheat it until hot.
- Cook Macaroni and Cheese Waffles: Pour a portion of the macaroni and cheese mixture into the waffle iron, spreading it evenly. Close the lid and cook for 5-7 minutes until waffles are golden brown and crispy.
- Assemble the Cheeseburgers: Carefully remove the macaroni and cheese waffles from the iron. Place one on a plate, top with an additional burger patty, cheese slice, and your choice of toppings such as pickles, lettuce, ketchup, and mustard. Top with another macaroni and cheese waffle to form a sandwich.
- Repeat: Continue this process to make as many macaroni and cheese waffle cheeseburgers as you desire.
- Serve: Enjoy the macaroni and cheese waffle cheeseburgers immediately while hot and crispy for the best texture and flavor.
Notes
- You can substitute ground turkey for ground beef for a leaner option.
- Use sharp cheddar cheese for a more pronounced cheese flavor in the sauce.
- Make sure the macaroni and cheese mixture is not too runny before placing it in the waffle iron; it should hold shape.
- Feel free to customize toppings to your liking, including adding tomato slices or onions.
- If waffle batter is store-bought, choose one with minimal sweetness to avoid overpowering the savory flavors.
