Wendy's Recipe

Form and season patties

Divide the 1 lb ground beef into 4 equal portions (~4 oz each). Form each portion into thin patties slightly wider than the buns (press the center slightly to prevent doming). Season both sides of each patty with salt and black pepper.

Cook bacon

In a large skillet over medium heat, lay out 8 bacon strips without overlapping. Cook, turning occasionally, until crisp, about 8–10 minutes. Transfer bacon to a plate lined with paper towels to drain. Reserve about 1 tsp bacon fat in the skillet (discard excess) for flavor or wipe skillet clean if you prefer neutral oil.

Cook patties

Heat a heavy skillet or griddle over medium-high heat and add 1 tbs vegetable oil (or reserved bacon fat). When shimmering, add the beef patties in a single layer (work in batches if needed). Cook undisturbed for 2–3 minutes to develop a crust, flip, then immediately place a slice of cheddar on two of the patties and another slice on the remaining two so each patty will have cheese. Cook another 2–3 minutes for medium doneness (adjust time for preferred doneness). Remove patties to a plate and tent loosely with foil.

Toast buns

Spread 1 tbs softened butter across the cut sides of each bun. In a clean skillet over medium heat, toast the buns cut-side down until golden and slightly crisp, about 1–2 minutes. Remove and set aside.

Assemble burger

Mix mayonnaise, ketchup, and mustard in a small bowl to make a simple burger sauce. Spread about 1 tbs of the sauce on the bottom half of each toasted bun. Layer two cheeseburgers atop each other on the bun bottom (place one cheeseburger, then the second on top). Top the double-stack with 4 strips of crispy bacon. Add optional lettuce, tomato slices, and pickle slices if using. Place the top bun and press gently to compact.

Serve

Serve the Baconator-style burger immediately with fries or your favorite side. If preparing fries, cook according to package directions or oven-fry until golden and crisp, about 18–25 minutes at 425°F (220°C) for frozen fries, turning once.

If using lettuce and tomato: wash and pat dry. Shred the lettuce and slice the tomato thinly. Add to assembled burgers just before serving so they remain crisp.

To prepare fries (if using frozen): spread fries on a single layer on a baking sheet, lightly spray or toss with oil, bake in preheated 425°F (220°C) oven for 18–25 minutes, flipping once, until golden and crisp. Season with salt immediately.