Bacon Cheddar Burger Recipe

Make and shape patties

Place the ground beef in a bowl. Add kosher salt, freshly ground black pepper and Worcestershire sauce if using. Gently mix with your hands until just combined; avoid overworking. Divide into 3 equal portions (about 5.3 oz / 150 g each). Shape each portion into a patty roughly 3/4-inch thick and slightly wider than the bun. Make a shallow dimple in the center of each patty with your thumb to prevent doming during cooking.

Preheat cooking surface

Heat a grill or heavy skillet (cast iron preferred) over medium-high heat. Lightly brush the cooking surface with vegetable oil to prevent sticking and to promote a good sear.

Cook the bacon

Place bacon strips in a cold skillet in a single layer, then turn heat to medium. Cook, turning occasionally, until crisp (about 8–12 minutes depending on thickness). Transfer to a paper towel–lined plate to drain and keep warm. Alternatively, bake bacon on a rimmed sheet at 400°F (200°C) for 12–18 minutes until crisp.

Prepare cheese

Have cheddar slices ready and near the cooking surface so they can be added to the patties in the final minute of cooking.

Cook patties

Place the patties on the preheated grill or skillet. Cook without pressing for about 3–4 minutes on the first side until a brown crust forms. Flip once and cook 3 minutes more for medium (adjust time for desired doneness). In the last 60 seconds of cooking, place 1–2 slices of cheddar on each patty and cover with a lid or tent with foil to melt the cheese.

Rest patties

Transfer cooked patties to a plate and let rest for 2–3 minutes while you toast buns and finish toppings. This helps juices redistribute.

Make sauce

In a small bowl combine mayonnaise, yellow mustard, ketchup, smoked paprika and a pinch of black pepper. Stir until smooth and taste; adjust seasoning if necessary.

Prepare buns and toppings

Slice tomato into 3 even slices. Thinly slice the red onion into rings. Spread softened butter on the cut sides of each bun. Toast buns cut-side down in a dry skillet or on the grill for 1–2 minutes until golden and slightly crisp.

Assemble burgers

Spread about 1 tablespoon of the sauce on the bottom bun. Place a lettuce leaf on the sauce, add the cheddar-topped burger patty, then arrange two bacon slices over the cheese. Add a tomato slice, a few onion rings, and two pickle slices. Spread a little sauce on the top bun and close the burger. Serve immediately.

Serve the burgers hot with your choice of side (fries, chips, or a simple salad). Provide extra sauce on the side if desired.