1. Season the ground beef with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. Form into 4 equal patties, slightly larger than your buns (they’ll shrink while cooking).

2. Cook bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy, about 8-10 minutes. Transfer to paper towels to drain. Reserve 1 tablespoon of bacon fat in the pan.

3. In the same skillet with bacon fat, cook burger patties over medium-high heat for 4-5 minutes per side for medium doneness, or adjust to your preference. During the last minute, place a slice of cheddar cheese on each patty and cover to melt.

4. While burgers cook, warm your macaroni and cheese in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally until creamy and hot.

5. Toast the pretzel buns: Spread butter on cut sides and toast in a dry skillet or under the broiler for 1-2 minutes until golden.

6. Assemble burgers: Place bottom bun on plate, add cheeseburger patty, layer 2 bacon slices, add generous scoop of mac and cheese (about ½ cup), drizzle with BBQ sauce, and crown with top bun.

7. Serve immediately while hot. Pair with coleslaw, potato salad, or baked beans for the complete tailgate experience.