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Nothing beats biting into a warm Cheesy Bacon Burger piled high with crispy bacon and melting cheddar cheese. This recipe is my go-to for pure comfort food when friends come over or when my family craves something extra special on the weekend. I love how every bite bursts with smoky savory flavors and satisfying crunch.
This burger never fails when I want to make everyone happy at the table. The first time I made these for a summer barbecue, neighbors kept asking for the recipe and now it is a classic in our house.
Ingredients
- Ground beef: use an 80 20 blend for the juiciest results look for beef bright red in color and with a firm texture
- Worcestershire sauce: adds deep umami flavor choose a classic brand with no artificial sweeteners
- Garlic: minced fresh garlic brings big aroma and flavor always use plump tight cloves
- Onion powder: gives subtle sweetness and a savory backbone opt for pure onion powder
- Smoked paprika: imparts a gentle smokiness Spanish smoked paprika has extra depth
- Salt: brings out the beefy taste flaky kosher salt melts in best
- Black pepper: offers a mild kick grind fresh for the best aroma
- Bacon: thick cut holds up well and gets extra crispy seek slices with good marbling
- Cheddar cheese: nothing beats its melt and tang choose a sharp block and slice your own if you can
- Brioche burger buns: rich and buttery these toast up beautifully the softer the bun the better for soaking sauces
- Butter: helps brown the buns real butter for extra flavor
- Mayonnaise: forms the base for the special sauce pick full fat for creaminess
- Ketchup: adds sweetness and tang classic tomato ketchup works best
- Dijon mustard: brings a peppery punch smooth Dijon has a clean flavor
- Pickle juice: brightens up the sauce use juice from good quality dill pickles
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Cook the Bacon:
- Lay bacon slices in a cool skillet and turn heat to medium watch the fat slowly render out and let the strips sizzle until crispy on both sides around six minutes per side move bacon to a plate lined with paper towels to drain
- Prepare the Patties:
- In a large bowl gently mix ground beef with Worcestershire sauce garlic onion powder smoked paprika salt and black pepper stop mixing once the seasonings are just combined divide into four portions and shape into patties about three quarters inch thick make a slight indent in the center of each so they stay flat as they grill
- Cook the Burgers:
- Heat the grill or a cast iron skillet over medium high get it nice and hot for a good sear set the patties on and cook three to four minutes until browned flip and place cheddar on top near the end cover with a lid for a minute to melt the cheese
- Toast the Buns:
- Spread soft butter on the cut sides of each brioche bun put the buns face down on a hot skillet or grill until toasted golden and slightly crisp this step makes all the difference for texture
- Make the Special Sauce:
- In a small bowl whisk together mayonnaise ketchup Dijon and pickle juice until smooth set aside for assembling
- Assemble the Burgers:
- Spread the special sauce over both the top and bottom buns layer on fresh lettuce tomato and pickles add the hot cheesy burger patty then tuck on slices of crispy bacon and raw onion if liked cap with the top bun and press lightly everything settles together in a perfect stack
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Cheddar cheese is my secret ingredient for these burgers and I always use extra sharp for maximum tang. I once doubled the bacon for a family cookout and everyone declared it the best burger ever.
Storage Tips
Leftover cooked patties and bacon can be stored separately in the refrigerator for up to three days. For best results reheat gently in a covered skillet so everything stays juicy. Buns are best enjoyed fresh but can be refreshed in a warm oven.
Ingredient Substitutions
Swap cheddar with Swiss Monterey Jack or your favorite melting cheese for a twist. Turkey bacon works well if you want a lighter touch. If you do not have smoked paprika try a pinch of chili powder or a dash of chipotle for warmth.
Serving Suggestions
Pile these burgers high with crispy lettuce juicy tomatoes and crunchy red onion rings. Serve alongside sweet potato fries a tangy slaw or classic potato chips. For something extra offer a simple green salad tossed with lemon vinaigrette.
Cultural and Historical Context
Burgers have their roots in early twentieth century America originally served plain but quickly upgraded with cheese and bacon. This version celebrates that timeless combination of smoky crispy bacon and creamy cheddar loved by generations at cookouts and diners alike.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → How do I achieve juicy, flavorful beef patties?
Use an 80/20 ground beef blend and avoid overmixing the meat. Gently shape and press a small indent in each patty's center before cooking to ensure even thickness and juiciness.
- → What cheese pairs best with bacon burgers?
Cheddar melts beautifully and adds classic sharpness, but Swiss, Pepper Jack, or creamy Boursin are also delicious options for extra flavor.
- → How can I make the buns extra special?
Spread butter on the cut side of brioche buns and toast them until golden brown for a crisp, rich foundation that holds all the layers perfectly.
- → What condiments work well for this burger?
A homemade blend of mayo, ketchup, Dijon mustard, and pickle juice gives a tangy, creamy spread, but you can also try sriracha mayo for a spicy kick.
- → Any tips for assembling the burger?
Layer fresh lettuce, tomato, and pickles beneath the patty, top with sizzling bacon, and finish with onions if you wish. Press lightly to keep all elements together.