Bacon Cheeseburger Recipe

Form Patties

Divide the ground beef into four equal portions (about 4 oz each). Gently form each portion into a patty about 3/4 inch thick and slightly wider than the bun. Press a shallow dimple in the center of each patty with your thumb to help them cook evenly.

Season both sides of each patty with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper (about 1/4 tsp salt and a pinch of pepper per side). Lightly brush or dab each patty with 1/4 teaspoon of Worcestershire sauce on each side.

Cook the bacon: place bacon strips in a cold skillet in a single layer. Cook over medium heat, turning occasionally, until crisp and browned, about 8–10 minutes. Transfer cooked bacon to a paper towel-lined plate to drain. Keep warm.

When the patties are almost done cooking (see next section), place one slice of cheddar on each patty and let melt for about 30–60 seconds with the pan covered or with residual heat. If you prefer extra cheesiness, add a second slice.

Make burger sauce: In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise (1/2 cup), ketchup (1/4 cup) and yellow mustard (2 tbs). Stir until smooth. Taste and adjust proportions to your preference. Set aside.

Prepare produce: Thinly slice the red onion into rings (you should have about 1/4 cup). Slice the tomato into 4 even slices. Rinse and pat dry iceberg lettuce leaves. Have 8 pickle slices ready.

Toast buns: Heat a skillet or griddle over medium heat. Spread 1/2 teaspoon of softened butter onto the cut side of each bun (use remaining butter to toast all buns). Place buns butter-side down on the skillet and toast until golden, about 1–2 minutes. Remove and keep warm.

Cook patties: Heat a cast-iron skillet or grill over medium-high heat. Lightly oil the surface with 1 teaspoon vegetable oil. Place patties on the hot surface, dimple-side up. Cook without moving for 3–4 minutes until a brown crust forms. Flip and cook 2–3 minutes for medium-rare to medium (increase time 1–2 minutes per side for more well-done). During the last 30–60 seconds of cook time, place a slice of cheddar on each patty and cover the pan or close the grill lid to melt the cheese.

Assemble burgers: Spread about 1 tablespoon of burger sauce on the bottom half of each toasted bun. Place a lettuce leaf, then a cheese-topped patty, then 2 slices of crispy bacon per burger. Add a tomato slice, a few onion rings, and 2 pickle slices. Spread a thin layer of mayo or remaining sauce on the top bun if desired, then close the burger.

Serve immediately with fries or a side of your choice.