Bacon Cheesburger Recipe

Form patties

Divide the 1 lb ground chuck into 4 equal portions (about 4 oz each). Gently shape each portion into a patty about 3/4-inch thick and slightly wider than the bun, taking care not to overwork the meat. Make a shallow 1/2-inch indentation in the center of each patty with your thumb to reduce puffing while cooking.

Season the patties on both sides with kosher salt (about 1/4 tsp per side) and freshly ground black pepper. Lightly brush or sprinkle 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce across the top of the patties for umami.

Cook bacon

Place the 6 slices of applewood-smoked bacon in a cold skillet in a single layer. Cook over medium heat, turning occasionally, until crisp and evenly browned, about 8–10 minutes. Transfer cooked bacon to a paper towel–lined plate to drain. Reserve 1 tablespoon of bacon fat in the pan and discard the rest (or save for another use).

Prepare vegetables

While bacon cooks, thinly slice the tomato into 4 rounds. Thinly slice the yellow onion into rings and separate into half-rings if desired. Rinse and dry 4 lettuce leaves. Arrange 8 dill pickle slices. Set aside.

Toast buns

Spread the softened butter (2 tbs) on the cut sides of the 4 burger buns. Heat a skillet or griddle over medium heat and add 1 tablespoon neutral oil. Place buns cut-side down and toast until golden and slightly crisp, about 1–2 minutes. Remove and keep warm.

Prepare sauce

In a small bowl mix 1/2 cup mayonnaise, 4 tsp ketchup, and 4 tsp yellow mustard until smooth. Taste and adjust quantities to preference. Spread desired amount on both top and bottom bun halves when assembling.

Cook patties

Heat the skillet or griddle over medium-high heat. Add the reserved 1 tbs bacon fat and, if needed, 1 tbs neutral oil to prevent sticking. When the pan is hot and shimmering, place the patties in the skillet (do not overcrowd). Cook for 3–4 minutes on the first side without pressing. Flip and cook 2–3 minutes on the second side for medium (adjust time 1–2 minutes for rarer or longer for well-done).

Melt cheese

About 1 minute before the patties are done, place a slice of cheddar on each patty. Cover the pan with a lid or use a loose foil tent to trap heat so the cheese melts evenly, about 30–60 seconds.

Assemble burgers

Spread sauce on the bottom bun. Place a lettuce leaf, then the cheese-topped patty on the bun. Add two slices of bacon across each patty, followed by a tomato slice, a few onion rings, and two pickle slices. Spread sauce on the top bun and close the burger. Serve immediately.