Hearty BBQ Bacon Burger (Print Version)
Juicy beef patties topped with crispy bacon, melted cheddar, and tangy barbecue sauce on toasted buns.
# What You Need:
→ Burger Patties
01 - 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend)
02 - 1 tsp kosher salt
03 - 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper
04 - 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
05 - 1/2 tsp garlic powder
→ Toppings
06 - 8 slices bacon
07 - 4 slices sharp cheddar cheese
08 - 4 brioche or hamburger buns
09 - 4 tbsp barbecue sauce
10 - 4 romaine or iceberg lettuce leaves
11 - 1 large tomato, sliced
12 - 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
13 - 4 dill pickle slices
→ Optional
14 - 2 tbsp mayonnaise
15 - 1 tbsp unsalted butter (for toasting buns)
# How-To Steps:
01 - Preheat grill or skillet to medium-high heat.
02 - Gently combine ground beef with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and garlic powder in a mixing bowl. Form into 4 equal patties, slightly larger than the buns to account for shrinkage.
03 - Cook bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crisp, about 6–8 minutes. Drain on paper towels and set aside.
04 - Grill or pan-sear burger patties for 3–4 minutes per side for medium doneness, adjusting time to your preference. During the last minute of cooking, top each patty with a slice of cheddar cheese and allow it to melt completely.
05 - Butter the cut sides of the buns and toast them on the grill or in a skillet until golden brown and lightly crisped.
06 - Spread mayonnaise (if using) on the bottom bun. Layer with lettuce, cheesy burger patty, 2 slices of crispy bacon, tomato slices, red onion, pickle slices, and 1 tablespoon of barbecue sauce. Top with the upper bun.
07 - Serve immediately with your favorite sides such as coleslaw, sweet potato fries, or potato chips.
# Expert Tips:
01 -
- The crispy bacon creates this incredible salty crunch that contrasts perfectly with the juicy beef patty
- That moment when the cheddar melts over the edge and gets all crispy on the grill is absolute magic
02 -
- Never press down on the patties with your spatula or you will lose all those precious juices
- Let the burgers rest for just 2 minutes after grilling or all the cheese will slide right off when you take that first bite
03 -
- The thumbprint trick in the center of each patty keeps them perfectly flat and even
- Room temperature beef cooks more evenly so take it out of the fridge 20 minutes before grilling