Bacon Cheddar Burger Recipe

Form patties

Divide the ground chuck into 4 equal portions (about 4 oz each). Gently form into patties roughly 3.5–4 inches across and about 3/4 inch thick, making a shallow dimple in the center of each patty with your thumb. Season both sides of each patty with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. Lightly brush or rub Worcestershire sauce on each patty.

Prep vegetables and buns

Slice the tomato into 1/4-inch thick rounds. Thinly slice the red onion into rings. Separate and wash lettuce leaves; dry thoroughly. Split the buns and spread softened butter on cut sides.

Place a large skillet over medium heat. Lay bacon slices in a single layer and cook, turning occasionally, until crisp and golden, about 8–10 minutes depending on thickness. Transfer cooked bacon to a paper towel-lined plate to drain. Reserve about 1 tablespoon of rendered bacon fat in the skillet and discard the rest or save for another use.

Heat a heavy skillet or cast-iron griddle over medium-high heat and add 1 tablespoon vegetable oil (or the reserved bacon fat). When shimmering, add patties leaving space between them. Cook without pressing for 3–4 minutes until a brown crust forms. Flip and cook another 2–3 minutes for medium-rare to medium (adjust time for desired doneness).

About 1 minute before the patties are done, place a slice of sharp cheddar on each patty and cover the pan with a lid or foil to melt the cheese, about 1 minute. Remove patties to a plate and tent with foil to keep warm.

Reduce heat to medium-low. Place the buttered bun halves, butter-side down, on the skillet or griddle. Toast until golden and slightly crisp, about 1–2 minutes.

Mix mayonnaise, mustard and ketchup in a small bowl (add hot sauce if using) to make a quick burger sauce. Spread about 1 teaspoon of sauce on each bottom bun.

On each bottom bun, layer lettuce leaf, a tomato slice, and a few red onion rings. Place the cheddar-topped patty on top of the tomatoes. Arrange 1–2 slices of crisp bacon over the cheese. Add pickles if using. Spread a little sauce on the top bun and close the burger.

Serve the bacon cheddar burgers immediately with fries or a side salad. Let guests season with extra salt, pepper or hot sauce to taste.