Juicy, smoky, and irresistibly indulgent, the Bacon Cheeseburger is a classic American favorite that combines a perfectly grilled beef patty with crispy bacon, melted cheese, and fresh toppings, all stacked inside a soft, toasted bun. Loved at diners, barbecues, and fast-food joints alike, this burger delivers a satisfying combination of savory flavors and textures that makes it a staple for burger lovers worldwide.
Ingredient
For the Burger Patties:
| Ground Beef (80/20 blend) | 1.5 lbs (680g) |
|---|---|
| Salt | 1 teaspoon |
| Black Pepper | ½ teaspoon |
| Vegetable Oil (for cooking) | 1 tablespoon |
| Burger Buns | 4 |
|---|---|
| Sliced Cheese | 4 slices |
| Beef Bacon | 8 slices |
| Green Leaf or Iceberg Lettuce | 4 large leaves |
| Roma Tomato | 1 medium |
| Red Onion | ½ medium |
| Dill Pickle Slices | To taste |
| Ketchup | To taste |
| Yellow Mustard | To taste |
| Mayonnaise | To taste |
Cooking Steps
Step 1: Prepare the Burger Patties
- In a large mixing bowl, gently combine the ground beef with 1 teaspoon salt and ½ teaspoon black pepper. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to tough patties.
- Divide the seasoned beef into 4 equal portions. Form each portion into a firm, flat patty, slightly wider than your burger bun (they will shrink as they cook). Make a small indentation in the center of each patty with your thumb – this helps prevent them from bulging in the middle.
Step 2: Cook the Beef Bacon
- Heat a large skillet (or use a griddle) over medium heat.
- Add the beef bacon slices and cook for 5-8 minutes, flipping occasionally, until they are crispy to your liking.
- Transfer the cooked bacon to a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess fat.
Step 3: Cook the Burger Patties
- Grilling Method: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (around 200-230°C / 400-450°F). Lightly brush the grill grates with oil. Place the patties on the hot grill.
- Pan-Frying Method: Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large cast-iron skillet or heavy-bottomed pan over medium-high heat until shimmering. Carefully place the patties in the hot pan.
- Cook the patties for 3-5 minutes per side for medium-rare, or longer to your desired doneness. Flip only once.
- During the last minute of cooking, place a slice of cheese on top of each patty. If grilling, close the lid for a few seconds to help the cheese melt.
Step 4: Toast the Buns
- While the burgers are cooking, lightly butter or brush the cut sides of the burger buns with a little oil.
- Toast them on the grill (cut-side down) or in a toaster until lightly golden brown. This adds a nice texture and prevents the bun from getting soggy.
Step 5: Assemble Your Classic Bacon Cheeseburger
- Lay out the toasted bottom buns.
- On each bottom bun, spread a thin layer of mayonnaise (optional).
- Place a lettuce leaf, followed by a cheese-melted burger patty.
- Top the patty with 2 slices of crispy beef bacon.
- Add tomato slices, red onion slices, and dill pickle slices to your preference.
- Squeeze on some ketchup and yellow mustard.
- Cap with the toasted top bun.
Extra Tips for a Perfect Bacon Cheeseburger
- Don't Overmix the Meat: Gentle handling of the ground beef prevents the patties from becoming tough.
- The Thumbprint Trick: The indentation helps the patty cook evenly and remain flat, rather than bulging into a ball.
- Beef Bacon Crispness: Cook beef bacon until it's quite crispy. It tends to be less fatty than pork bacon, so it can become crispier without being greasy.
- Toasting Buns: This step is crucial for overall burger integrity and texture. Don't skip it!
- Customization: Feel free to add other toppings you love, such as grilled onions, sautéed mushrooms, or a special burger sauce.
Nutritional Value
Approximate (per burger, highly variable based on specific ingredients and portion sizes)
| Calories | 550-800 kcal |
|---|---|
| Protein | 35-50 grams |
| Fat | 35-55 grams |
| Carbohydrates | 25-40 grams |
| Fiber | 2-4 grams |
Benefits
- ✅ High in Protein & Flavor: Juicy beef and bacon provide satisfying richness.
- ✅ Customizable & Versatile: Easily tailored with different cheeses, buns, or toppings.
- ✅ Fresher & Healthier at Home: Control ingredients and cooking method for a better-quality burger.
- ✅ Perfect for Barbecues & Parties: A crowd-pleasing dish for any casual occasion.
- ✅ Pairs with Countless Sides: Fries, onion rings, or fresh salads for a complete meal.
With its smoky bacon, melted cheese, and juicy beef patty, the Bacon Cheeseburger captures the essence of American comfort food in every bite. Whether grilled outdoors or cooked on a stovetop, this classic burger is perfect for family dinners, backyard cookouts, or casual gatherings.
Explore more American classics, grilled burger recipes, and comfort food favorites on our site. Try this Bacon Cheeseburger recipe and enjoy a homemade version of the iconic burger everyone loves.