The Royale With Cheese Recipe

Oven fries (preferred for home)

Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). If using frozen fries, spread on a rimmed baking sheet in a single layer; if using fresh cut potatoes, toss with 2 tbsp vegetable oil and a pinch of salt and pepper, spread on sheet. Bake 20–30 minutes, flipping once halfway, until golden and crisp. Season with salt immediately after coming out of oven.

Pan-fry or deep-fry option

Heat 1–2 inches of oil in a heavy skillet to 350°F (175°C). Fry fries in batches until golden (3–5 minutes for frozen, 5–7 minutes for fresh), drain on paper towels, then season with salt.

In a skillet over medium heat, cook bacon in a single layer until crisp, 6–10 minutes depending on thickness. Transfer to a paper towel–lined plate to drain. Keep skillet reserved for mushrooms and onions.

Slice the yellow onion into 1/4–1/2-inch rings. In the same skillet used for bacon (drain excess bacon fat leaving about 1 tbsp; add 1 tbsp vegetable oil if needed), cook onion rings over medium heat until softened and caramelized, about 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally. Season with 1/2 tsp salt and 1/4 tsp pepper.

Remove onions and keep warm. Add sliced button mushrooms to the skillet, cook over medium-high heat until browned and moisture evaporates, about 6–8 minutes. Season with 1/2 tsp salt, 1/4 tsp pepper and 1/2 tsp garlic powder (optional). Set mushrooms aside with onions.

Divide the ground beef into 4 equal portions (about 4 oz each). Gently form patties slightly wider than the buns and about 3/4-inch thick. Season both sides with 1 tsp salt and 1/2 tsp black pepper total (divide across patties). If using, brush each patty with 1/4 tsp Worcestershire sauce before cooking.

Heat a heavy skillet or griddle over medium-high heat until very hot. Add a light smear of oil or use the residual fat in pan. Cook patties 3–4 minutes on the first side without pressing. Flip and immediately place a slice of cheddar–Swiss blend on each patty. Cook another 3–4 minutes for medium (adjust time for doneness). Cover the pan for 30–60 seconds if you want extra melt.

While patties finish, split buns and butter cut sides with the 2 tbsp butter. Toast buns in a separate skillet or on the griddle, cut-side down, until golden, about 1–2 minutes.

Assemble each burger: bottom bun, burger patty with melted cheese, 1–2 slices bacon (use 1–2 slices per burger depending on preference), a spoonful of sautéed mushrooms, 2–3 grilled onion rings, top bun. Serve with fries and choice of ranch, ketchup, or BBQ sauce on the side.