Cowboy Burger Recipe

Form patties

Divide the ground beef into two equal portions (about 8 oz each). Gently form into loose patties about 3/4 inch thick and slightly wider than the buns. Do not overwork the meat.

Season

Lightly brush or sprinkle each side of the patties with kosher salt and black pepper. If using, brush Worcestershire sauce on one side of each patty.

Cook patties

Heat a heavy skillet or cast-iron pan over medium-high heat until hot. Place patties in the pan and cook 3-4 minutes on the first side without moving to develop a crust. Flip and cook 2-3 minutes more for medium (adjust time for desired doneness). During the last minute of cooking, place an American cheese slice on each patty and cover the pan briefly to melt the cheese.

Cook bacon

While the patties rest, in a separate skillet over medium heat cook bacon strips until crisp, about 6-8 minutes, turning as needed. Transfer to paper towels to drain and keep warm.

Prepare onion

Peel the onion and cut into 1/2-inch thick slices. Separate into rings and select the largest rings for topping (about 2 per burger). Pat rings dry with paper towel.

Make batter

In a bowl whisk together 3 tbs flour, cornstarch, baking powder and 1/2 tsp salt. Add 1/2 cup cold sparkling water or beer and whisk until a smooth, slightly thick batter forms. Batter should coat the back of a spoon; add a splash more liquid if too thick.

Heat oil

Pour vegetable oil into a heavy pot or deep pan to a depth of about 1.5 inches. Heat to 350°F (175°C). If you don't have a thermometer, test with a small drop of batter — it should sizzle and rise immediately.

Fry onion rings

Dredge each onion ring lightly in a little flour (from leftover flour) then dip into the batter to fully coat, allowing excess to drip off. Fry rings in batches so oil temperature remains steady, about 1.5-2 minutes per side or until golden brown and crisp. Use a slotted spoon to transfer rings to a paper towel-lined plate and season immediately with a pinch of salt.

Toast buns

Butter the cut sides of the buns lightly. In a clean skillet over medium heat, toast the buns cut-side down until golden, about 1-2 minutes. Remove and keep warm.

Assemble Cowboy Burger

Spread mayonnaise (if using) on the bottom bun. Place the cheese-topped patty on the bottom bun, spoon about 1.5 tbs BBQ sauce over the cheese, then add two strips of crispy bacon. Top with one large onion ring (or stacked rings if you prefer). Add pickles if desired. Spoon remaining BBQ sauce on the top bun and place on the burger.

Serve

Secure with a skewer if needed to keep the onion ring in place. Serve immediately with fries or a side salad.