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Ingredients
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Burger Patties & Seasoning
Bacon & Cheese
Buns & Toppings
Condiments & Finish
Method
Prep
Remove ground beef from refrigerator and let sit at room temperature 10–15 minutes while you prepare toppings. Slice tomato into 4 even rounds, separate and dry lettuce leaves, and thinly slice red onion if using. Split buns and butter cut sides lightly.
Cook Bacon
Pan-fry bacon
Place a large skillet over medium heat. Lay bacon slices in a single layer and cook until crisp, about 6–10 minutes, turning occasionally for even browning. Transfer cooked bacon to a paper towel–lined plate to drain. Reserve 1 tablespoon of bacon fat in the skillet and discard the rest or save for another use.
Form & Cook Patties
Divide the beef into 4 equal portions (about 4 ounces each). Lightly form into patties roughly the diameter of the buns, pressing a shallow dimple in the center of each to prevent bulging. Season both sides evenly with kosher salt and black pepper and brush each with a little Worcestershire sauce.
Heat the same skillet with reserved bacon fat (add 1 tsp neutral oil if needed) over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add patties (work in batches if necessary) and cook without pressing for 3–4 minutes until a brown crust forms. Flip and cook another 2–3 minutes for medium, or until internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C) for well-done. During the last 1 minute of cooking, place a slice of cheddar on each patty and cover the skillet to melt the cheese.
Toast Buns
Assemble Burgers
Spread about 1 teaspoon mayonnaise on each bottom bun and 1/2 teaspoon ketchup and 1/2 teaspoon mustard on top bun (adjust to taste). Place a lettuce leaf on each bottom bun, then the cheese-topped patty, followed by 1–2 slices of crispy bacon (arrange to cover the patty). Add a slice of tomato and a few onion rings and pickles if using. Top with the bun and press gently to hold together.
Serve immediately with fries or a side. Provide extra condiments on the side if desired.