Garlic Butter Bacon Cheeseburger Rollups

This garlic butter bacon cheeseburger rollup recipe transforms classic burger flavors into a fun, portable meal that's perfect for family dinners, game day gatherings, or when you want something different from the usual burger routine.

I created these rollups during a rainy weekend when my kids were craving burgers but I didn't want to fire up the grill. They've become our Friday night tradition, with everyone gathering around to watch them being sliced like cinnamon rolls but with savory burger goodness inside.

Ingredients

• Ground beef: Choose 80/20 lean to fat ratio for the juiciest flavor without excessive grease
• Taco seasoning: Provides complex flavor in one convenient packet but you can use homemade blend too
• Water: Helps distribute the seasoning evenly throughout the meat mixture
• Bacon: Adds smoky crunch and authentic burger flavor; use thick cut for best texture results
• Cheddar cheese: Sharp variety melts beautifully and stands up to the strong flavors
• Refrigerated pizza dough: Creates a soft yet sturdy wrapper that bakes to golden perfection
• Unsalted butter: Allows you to control the saltiness since bacon and taco seasoning add plenty
• Fresh garlic cloves: Provides aromatic flavor that elevates the entire dish
• Fresh parsley: Brightens the rich flavors and adds beautiful color contrast

Step-by-Step Instructions

Brown the Beef:

Cook ground beef in a large skillet over medium high heat until no pink remains, about 5–7 minutes. Break meat into small crumbles with a wooden spoon as it cooks. Drain excess fat completely to prevent soggy rollups.

Season the Mixture:

Add taco seasoning packet and water to the drained beef. Stir thoroughly to coat every bit of meat with seasoning. Simmer for 5 minutes uncovered until the mixture thickens and liquid reduces. Remove from heat and let cool slightly for easier handling.

Prepare Baking Surface:

Preheat your oven to 375°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier. The parchment also helps the bottoms brown evenly without burning.

Roll Out the Dough:

On a lightly floured surface, unroll the pizza dough and gently stretch it into a 10x15 inch rectangle. Use a rolling pin for even thickness throughout. If dough springs back, let it rest for 5 minutes before trying again.

Layer the Fillings:

Spread the seasoned beef mixture evenly across the dough, leaving a 1 inch border on all sides. Sprinkle crumbled bacon pieces over the beef followed by an even layer of shredded cheese. Press fillings gently into dough to help them stick together.

Form the Roll:

Starting from one long edge, carefully roll the dough into a tight log shape similar to making cinnamon rolls. Pinch the seam and ends firmly to seal completely, preventing filling from leaking during baking.

Slice into Portions:

Using a sharp serrated knife, cut the log into approximately 1 inch thick slices. Clean the knife between cuts for neater slices. Place each slice cut side up on the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch between pieces.

Add Garlic Butter Topping:

Melt butter in a small bowl and stir in minced garlic and chopped parsley until well combined. Use a pastry brush to generously coat the top and sides of each roll with this mixture for maximum flavor.

Bake to Perfection:

Place baking sheet in preheated oven and bake for 15–20 minutes until the rolls turn golden brown and cheese melts completely. The bottom should be crisp and the dough fully cooked through.

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The taco seasoning might seem like an unusual choice for a burger recipe, but it's actually my secret weapon. My grandmother used to add a pinch of taco seasoning to her burger patties, claiming it was the perfect blend of spices to enhance beef without overwhelming it. Every time I make these rollups, that familiar aroma brings me right back to her kitchen.

Make-Ahead Options

These rollups work beautifully for meal planning. You can prepare the entire roll, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before slicing and baking. For longer storage, freeze the whole unsliced log then thaw in the refrigerator overnight before slicing and baking. Already baked rollups reheat well in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes from refrigerated or 15 minutes from frozen.

Creative Variations

Turn these into breakfast rollups by using breakfast sausage instead of beef and adding scrambled eggs to the filling. For a vegetarian version, substitute cooked lentils or plant based ground meat for the beef and use vegetarian bacon bits. Experiment with different cheese combinations: try pepper jack for heat, mozzarella for stretch, or blue cheese for tangy flavor. You can also add sautéed mushrooms, caramelized onions, or diced pickles inside the rolls for extra burger authenticity.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these rollups with small bowls of traditional burger condiments like ketchup, mustard, and mayo for dipping. A simple side salad with ranch dressing complements the richness perfectly. For a fun presentation, arrange the rolls on a platter with pickle spears and french fries in the center to create a complete burger and fries experience in a new format. These also make excellent appetizers when cut into smaller pieces and served with toothpicks.

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Enjoy these bacon cheeseburger rollups as a creative twist on a classic dish everyone will love!

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use a different cheese instead of cheddar?

Yes, you can substitute cheddar with cheeses like mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack to suit your taste.

→ Can these rollups be made ahead of time?

Absolutely! Assemble the rollups, refrigerate them covered, and bake just before serving to enjoy them fresh.

→ How can I reheat leftover rollups?

Reheat in an oven at 350°F for 5-7 minutes or in an air fryer until warmed through for a crisp texture.

→ Can I add extra toppings or fillings?

Of course! Try adding sautéed onions, bell peppers, or jalapeños for extra flavor and texture variation.

→ Can I use homemade dough instead of refrigerated dough?

Yes, homemade pizza dough works perfectly for this recipe. Roll it out to the same size and proceed as directed.

→ Are there vegetarian options for this dish?

You can replace the beef and bacon with seasoned plant-based meat or sautéed veggies to create a vegetarian-friendly version.