Bacon Swiss Recipe

Form Patties

Place the ground beef in a bowl. Add kosher salt, black pepper, and Worcestershire sauce. Gently mix with your hands just until combined; do not overwork. Divide into four equal portions (about 4 oz each) and form into patties roughly 3/4 inch thick, making a slight dimple in the center of each to reduce doming while cooking.

Cook Patties

Heat a cast-iron skillet or griddle over medium-high heat and add the vegetable oil. When the oil is shimmering, place the patties in the pan leaving space between them. Cook undisturbed for 3 to 4 minutes until a brown crust forms. Flip once and cook for another 3 minutes for medium (adjust time for desired doneness). In the last 1 minute of cooking, place a slice of Swiss cheese on each patty and cover the pan with a lid or a piece of foil to help cheese melt. Remove patties to a plate and tent with foil to keep warm.

Cook Bacon

While patties are resting or on a second burner, place bacon strips in a cold skillet in a single layer. Turn heat to medium and cook, flipping occasionally, until crisp and browned, about 8 to 12 minutes depending on thickness. Transfer bacon to a paper towel–lined plate to drain. If you prefer, bake bacon on a rimmed sheet at 400°F (200°C) for 12–18 minutes.

Prepare Vegetables and Buns

Slice the tomato into 1/4-inch slices and thinly slice the red onion. Lightly toast the burger buns: spread softened butter on cut sides and toast face-down in a skillet over medium heat until golden, about 1 to 2 minutes.

Assemble Burgers

Spread mayonnaise, Dijon, and/or ketchup on the bottom bun if using. Place a lettuce leaf on the bun, then the Swiss-topped patty, followed by 1–2 strips of smoked bacon per burger (arrange so bacon overhangs a bit). Add tomato slice, a few rings of red onion, and pickles if desired. Cap with the top bun and serve immediately.

Mix or spread condiments as preferred. For an even spread, stir mayonnaise and Dijon together and spread on both bun halves; add ketchup to taste on top of the mayo if you like a sweeter profile.