Description
This Macaroni and Cheese Waffle Cheeseburger recipe combines the creamy comfort of classic macaroni and cheese with the crispy texture of waffles, creating a unique and indulgent burger experience. Cooked ground beef is mixed into cheesy macaroni, then cooked in a waffle iron to form crispy, golden waffles that serve as the bun, stacked with an additional burger patty and optional toppings for a delicious twist on a cheeseburger.
Ingredients
Scale
Macaroni and Cheese
- 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, boil the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta thoroughly and set aside to cool slightly.
- Prepare Cheese Sauce: In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add flour and stir constantly for about 1 minute to make a roux. Slowly whisk in the milk and heat the mixture until it begins to simmer and thicken.
- Melt the Cheese: Once the sauce thickens, add shredded sharp cheddar cheese, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir continuously until the cheese melts completely and the sauce is smooth.
- Combine Macaroni and Meat: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked macaroni with the cheese sauce, cooked ground beef or turkey, and Worcestershire sauce. Mix until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
- Preheat Waffle Iron: Turn on your waffle iron and lightly grease the cooking plates with cooking spray or oil to prevent sticking.
- Cook Macaroni Waffles: Pour a portion of the macaroni and cheese mixture into the preheated waffle iron, spreading it evenly. Close the lid and cook the waffles until golden brown and crispy, approximately 5 to 7 minutes.
- Assemble the Waffle Cheeseburgers: Carefully remove the macaroni waffles from the iron. On one waffle, add an additional burger patty, cheese slice if desired, and your preferred toppings like pickles, lettuce, ketchup, and mustard. Top with another macaroni waffle to form the sandwich.
- Repeat and Serve: Repeat the cooking and assembling process to make as many waffle cheeseburgers as you like. Serve immediately while hot and crispy for the best taste and texture experience.
Notes
- Ensure the macaroni is well drained to prevent soggy waffles.
- You can substitute ground turkey for beef for a leaner option.
- If the waffle mixture seems too soft, add a little extra shredded cheese or a small amount of breadcrumbs to help it set.
- Waffle irons vary; adjust cooking time to achieve desired crispiness.
- These waffles can also be made ahead and reheated in a toaster for convenience.
