Bacon Cheeseburger* Recipe

Mix and form patties

Place ground beef in a bowl. Add kosher salt, black pepper, and Worcestershire sauce. Gently combine with your hands or a fork until just mixed — do not overwork. Divide into two equal portions and form into patties about 4 inches (10 cm) across and 3/4 inch (2 cm) thick, pressing a slight dimple into the center of each patty to prevent doming during cooking.

Preheat cooking surface

Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium-high heat. When hot, add 1 tsp vegetable oil and spread to coat the surface.

Cook patties

Place patties on the hot surface. Cook undisturbed for 3-4 minutes until a brown crust forms. Flip once and cook another 3 minutes for medium (adjust time +/- for desired doneness). During the last minute of cooking, place one slice of American cheese on each patty and cover the pan with a lid or a large bowl to help cheese melt.

Cook bacon

While patties cook, place bacon strips in a separate skillet over medium heat. Cook 3-5 minutes per side until crisp to your liking. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain and keep warm. If desired, chop bacon in half lengthwise to fit buns.

Toast buns

Spread softened butter on the cut sides of the burger buns. When the patties are almost done and removed from the pan, place buns butter-side down on the hot griddle or skillet and toast 1-2 minutes until golden and slightly crisp.

Assemble toppings

Lay lettuce on the bottom bun, then 2 tomato slices, 2 red onion slices, and 3 pickle slices. Top with the cheese-melted patty, two bacon strips (or half strips if chopped), then the top bun.

Make sauce

In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, ketchup, yellow mustard, sweet pickle relish, and optional hot sauce. Stir until smooth and well combined. Spread about 1 tablespoon of this sauce on the top or bottom bun (or both) when assembling the burger.

After assembling, press gently to compact the burger slightly. Serve immediately with fries or a side of your choice.