Description
Classic Bacon Cheeseburger with Grilled Onions
Ingredients
For the Burger Patties:
1 lb ground beef (80/20 mix for juiciness)
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tsp garlic powder
For the Toppings:
4 slices cheddar cheese
4 strips of crispy bacon
1 small onion, thinly sliced
1 tbsp butter
For the Buns:
2 sesame seed burger buns
1 tbsp butter
Optional Condiments:
Ketchup
Mustard
Mayonnaise
Instructions
Prepare the Patties:
Divide ground beef into two equal portions and shape into patties slightly larger than the buns.
Season both sides generously with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
Cook the Bacon:
In a skillet over medium heat, cook bacon until crispy. Remove and set aside.
Grill the Onions:
In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté onion slices until caramelized and golden brown. Set aside.
Cook the Burger Patties:
Heat the skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Sear patties for 3-4 minutes on the first side. Flip and top each patty with a slice of cheddar cheese. Cook for another 3-4 minutes until cheese is melted and the patty is cooked to your preferred doneness.
Toast the Buns:
Spread butter on the inside of the buns and toast in the skillet until golden.
Assemble the Burgers:
Spread condiments of your choice on the bottom bun. Add the burger patty, grilled onions, bacon strips, and top bun.
Enjoy this juicy, cheesy, bacon-packed burger for the ultimate comfort food experience!
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow this detailed sequence for a perfectly assembled burger. First, prepare all components before cooking the patties. Shape and season your patties, then cook the bacon. Use the bacon fat to grill the onions for added flavor. Remove onions and bacon, then increase the heat to properly sear the patties. Only after the patties are flipped and topped with cheese, toast your buns in a separate area of the skillet or in a toaster. Finally, assemble immediately while everything is hot.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty burger with classic sides like crispy french fries, sweet potato fries, or a light garden salad. For a cookout, pair with corn on the cob or coleslaw. A cold beer, creamy milkshake, or iced tea perfectly complements the rich flavors. Consider offering pickles, lettuce, and tomato on the side for those who want extra crunch and freshness.
How-to Summary
To make a classic bacon cheeseburger: 1) Form and season two beef patties. 2) Cook bacon until crispy, then sauté onions in the same pan. 3) Cook patties in the hot skillet, adding cheese just before they finish. 4) Butter and toast the buns. 5) Assemble with your preferred condiments, patty, onions, and bacon.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of cheese? Absolutely. American cheese melts beautifully, while pepper jack adds a spicy kick. Swiss or blue cheese are also excellent choices for different flavor profiles.
How do I know when the burger is cooked safely? Use a meat thermometer. For medium, aim for 160°F (71°C). Avoid pressing the patty with a spatula, as this releases flavorful juices.
What’s the best way to get thinly sliced onions? Use a sharp chef’s knife or a mandoline slicer for consistent, thin slices that caramelize evenly and quickly.
Can I cook this on an outdoor grill? Yes. Cook the bacon and onions in a skillet on the grill side. Grill the patties over direct high heat, adding cheese just before they come off.
How can I make the patties extra juicy? Use 80/20 ground beef and handle the meat as little as possible when forming patties. Make a slight dimple in the center of each raw patty to prevent it from puffing up during cooking.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overworking the meat when forming patties, which leads to a tough, dense texture.
- Cooking cold patties straight from the fridge; let them sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes for more even cooking.
- Flipping the burger multiple times. Flip only once to achieve a proper sear.
- Using lean ground beef (like 90/10), which often results in a dry burger.
- Toasting the buns too early, causing them to become soggy or cold before assembly.
Conclusion
Mastering the classic bacon cheeseburger is about quality ingredients and simple, careful technique. By following this guide and avoiding common pitfalls, you can consistently create a juicy, flavorful, and deeply satisfying homemade burger that rivals any restaurant version. It’s the ultimate customizable comfort meal, perfect for any occasion.