Bacon Cheeseburger Recipe

Cook bacon until crispy

Place a large skillet or frying pan over medium heat. Lay 4 bacon strips in a single layer. Cook, turning occasionally, until bacon is evenly browned and crispy, about 8–10 minutes depending on thickness. Transfer bacon to a paper-towel-lined plate to drain. Keep skillet with rendered fat for later use (or wipe out if you prefer to cook patties in oil).

Form and season patties

Divide the 1 lb ground beef into two equal portions (about 8 oz/225 g each). Gently form each into a patty about 3/4 inch thick and slightly wider than the buns (patty will shrink while cooking). Press a shallow dimple in the center of each patty with your thumb to prevent bulging. Season both sides evenly with 1 tsp kosher salt and 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper. Lightly brush or rub 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce over each patty.

Cook patties

Heat the skillet used for bacon over medium-high heat. If skillet is dry, add 1 tsp neutral oil and heat until shimmering. Place the patties in the hot skillet, leaving space between them. Cook undisturbed for 3–4 minutes to develop a browned crust. Flip patties and cook another 3 minutes for medium; adjust time for desired doneness (shorter for medium-rare, longer for well-done). In the last 1 minute of cooking, place one slice of cheddar cheese on each patty, cover the pan with a lid or a large metal bowl to melt the cheese quickly (about 30–60 seconds). Remove patties to a plate and let rest 2 minutes.

Toast buns

While patties rest, spread the inside of each bun with the softened butter. Place buns cut-side down on a separate skillet or on a griddle over medium heat and toast until golden, about 1–2 minutes. Alternatively, toast under a broiler for 30–60 seconds—watch carefully to avoid burning.

Prep vegetables

Slice the tomato into 1/4-inch rounds and separate lettuce leaves. Have 2 slices of red onion and 4 pickle slices ready.

Make sauce

In a small bowl combine 2 tbsp mayonnaise, 1 tbsp ketchup, 1/2 tsp yellow mustard and 1/4 tsp hot sauce (optional). Stir until smooth and adjust seasoning to taste.

Assemble the burgers

Spread a generous tablespoon of sauce on the bottom half of each toasted bun. Place a lettuce leaf on top of the sauce, then position the cheeseburger patty with melted cheddar. Top each patty with two strips of the crispy bacon (fold if needed). Add tomato slice, red onion slices, and pickle slices. Spread additional sauce on the top bun if desired, then close the burger. Serve immediately.