Comfort Food Wrapped and Crisped to Perfection
If you’re craving the ultimate comfort food in a hand-held form, these Mac and Cheese Bacon Burger Rolls are your new go-to. They bring together all the best parts of a classic bacon cheeseburger and creamy mac and cheese—then wrap it all in a golden, crispy tortilla for a crave-worthy twist on familiar flavors.
This recipe was born out of a happy accident—some leftover mac and cheese, a pound of ground beef, and a few tortillas. The result? A ridiculously satisfying, cheesy, crispy creation that quickly became one of the most requested meals in my household.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Combines everyone’s favorite comfort foods into one epic bite
- Kid-friendly and mess-free—perfect for weeknight dinners or game-day snacks
- Customizable: keep it mild or turn up the heat
- Prep ahead and cook when ready
- Super satisfying with minimal cleanup
Ingredients Breakdown
- Ground Beef – Go for 80/20 for juicy, flavorful filling
- Cooked Macaroni Pasta – Elbow macaroni is classic, but any small pasta works
- Sharp Cheddar Cheese – Melts beautifully and adds bold flavor
- Crispy Bacon – Crunchy, salty bites that elevate the texture
- Large Flour Tortillas – Burrito-size tortillas make wrapping easier
- Ketchup & Mustard – Classic burger flavor that ties it all together
How to Make Mac and Cheese Bacon Burger Rolls
1. Cook the Beef
In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef. Season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Cook, breaking up the meat into small pieces, until browned throughout. Drain excess grease.
2. Make the Filling
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, shredded cheddar cheese, bacon crumbles, ketchup, and mustard. Stir until the cheese begins to melt and everything is evenly coated. Add in the cooked ground beef and mix to combine.
3. Fill and Roll
Lay a tortilla flat on a clean surface. Scoop about ¾ cup of filling into the center and spread horizontally, leaving space around the edges. Fold the bottom up over the filling, tuck in the sides, and roll tightly like a burrito. Place seam-side down.
4. Toast the Rolls
Brush each roll with melted butter on all sides. In a skillet over medium heat, toast the rolls seam-side down for 2–3 minutes per side, or until golden and crispy all over and the filling is heated through.
Important Tips for Success
- Don’t overstuff the rolls—less is more for cleaner results
- Always start with the seam-side down to help seal the roll
- Medium heat ensures the inside heats through without burning the outside
- Let the rolls rest a few minutes before cutting to prevent the filling from spilling
Expert-Level Cooking Tips
For the Beef:
Season the meat while it’s still raw so the spices cook in, not just sit on top. Break it up well for smaller bits that blend seamlessly into the filling.
For the Mac and Cheese:
Make sure the pasta is fully cooked but still firm. Leftover mac and cheese works great, but toss in extra cheddar if needed to keep it rich and creamy.
For the Bacon:
Use real crispy bacon—not chewy. Crumble once cooled into bite-sized pieces for better texture in each bite.
For the Wraps:
Tightly roll like a burrito—bottom up, sides in, roll forward. Apply even pressure to compact the filling without tearing the tortilla.
Heat Management:
Stick to medium heat. Too hot, and the tortilla burns before the filling is warm. Too low, and it won’t crisp.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve hot and crispy, cut in halves or diagonals
- Pair with ranch, sriracha mayo, barbecue sauce, or classic ketchup
- Great as a hearty lunch, casual dinner, or cut into thirds for party snacks
Variations & Swaps
- Add diced jalapeños or pepper jack cheese for heat
- Swap beef for turkey, chicken, or plant-based meat
- Stir in pickles, caramelized onions, or BBQ sauce for flavor twists
- Try different cheeses like gouda, smoked cheddar, or mozzarella
Make-Ahead & Storage
Make Ahead:
Assemble up to 4 hours in advance. Store covered in the fridge and cook just before serving.
Storing Leftovers:
Keep in the fridge for 2–3 days. Reheat in a skillet or oven to restore crispness. Avoid microwaving—it makes them soggy.
Freezing Tips:
Wrap uncooked or cooked rolls individually and freeze up to 1 month. Thaw overnight and reheat in the oven at 350°F for 10–12 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
→ Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes. Assemble and refrigerate for up to 4 hours or freeze for later use.
→ What’s the best way to reheat?
Use the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes or a skillet over medium heat. Skip the microwave for best texture.
→ Can I use a meat substitute?
Absolutely—ground turkey, chicken, or meatless crumbles all work well.
→ How do I keep the tortillas from cracking?
Use room-temperature tortillas and avoid overfilling. Roll firmly but not too tight.
→ What dipping sauces go best?
Ranch, chipotle mayo, barbecue sauce, honey mustard, or classic ketchup and mustard all pair perfectly.
Final Thoughts
Mac and Cheese Bacon Burger Rolls are comfort food wrapped in crispy perfection. Whether you’re feeding hungry kids, prepping snacks for game day, or just craving something indulgent, these rolls are always a hit. They’re customizable, freezer-friendly, and ridiculously satisfying. Once you make them, they’ll be on repeat in your kitchen—guaranteed.
PrintMac and Cheese Bacon Burger Rolls
- Total Time: 25 Minutes
Description
If you’re craving the ultimate comfort food in a hand-held form, these Mac and Cheese Bacon Burger Rolls are your new go-to. They bring together all the best parts of a classic bacon cheeseburger and creamy mac and cheese—then wrap it all in a golden, crispy tortilla for a crave-worthy twist on familiar flavors.
Ingredients
-
Ground Beef – Go for 80/20 for juicy, flavorful filling
-
Cooked Macaroni Pasta – Elbow macaroni is classic, but any small pasta works
-
Sharp Cheddar Cheese – Melts beautifully and adds bold flavor
-
Crispy Bacon – Crunchy, salty bites that elevate the texture
-
Large Flour Tortillas – Burrito-size tortillas make wrapping easier
-
Ketchup & Mustard – Classic burger flavor that ties it all together
Instructions
In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef. Season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Cook, breaking up the meat into small pieces, until browned throughout. Drain excess grease.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, shredded cheddar cheese, bacon crumbles, ketchup, and mustard. Stir until the cheese begins to melt and everything is evenly coated. Add in the cooked ground beef and mix to combine.
Lay a tortilla flat on a clean surface. Scoop about ¾ cup of filling into the center and spread horizontally, leaving space around the edges. Fold the bottom up over the filling, tuck in the sides, and roll tightly like a burrito. Place seam-side down.
Brush each roll with melted butter on all sides. In a skillet over medium heat, toast the rolls seam-side down for 2–3 minutes per side, or until golden and crispy all over and the filling is heated through.
Notes
For the Beef:
Season the meat while it’s still raw so the spices cook in, not just sit on top. Break it up well for smaller bits that blend seamlessly into the filling.
For the Mac and Cheese:
Make sure the pasta is fully cooked but still firm. Leftover mac and cheese works great, but toss in extra cheddar if needed to keep it rich and creamy.
For the Bacon:
Use real crispy bacon—not chewy. Crumble once cooled into bite-sized pieces for better texture in each bite.
For the Wraps:
Tightly roll like a burrito—bottom up, sides in, roll forward. Apply even pressure to compact the filling without tearing the tortilla.
Heat Management:
Stick to medium heat. Too hot, and the tortilla burns before the filling is warm. Too low, and it won’t crisp.
- Prep Time: 15 Minutes
- Cook Time: 10 Minutes