Description
Loaded Cheese & Bacon Burger
Ingredients:
1 sesame seed bun
1 Angus beef patty (8 oz)
2 slices sharp cheddar cheese
2 strips applewood-smoked bacon
1 cup Parmesan fries
2 tbsp garlic aioli
1 tsp black pepper
Instructions:
Cook Angus beef patty to medium, adding cheddar cheese to melt.
Toast bun lightly and spread garlic aioli on both sides.
Assemble the burger with bacon, cheese, and patty.
Add Parmesan fries underneath, sprinkle black pepper, and enjoy!
#BaconBurgerHeaven
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for the perfect Loaded Cheese & Bacon Burger. First, preheat your grill or stovetop pan to medium-high heat. Season the 8 oz Angus patty generously with salt. Cook for 4-5 minutes on the first side until a good crust forms. Flip the patty, reduce heat slightly, and immediately place the two slices of sharp cheddar cheese on top. Cover loosely with a lid or metal bowl to trap heat and melt the cheese perfectly, cooking for another 4 minutes for medium doneness. While the patty cooks, toast the sesame seed bun until golden and cook the bacon until crisp. Prepare the Parmesan fries according to package instructions or your preferred method.
Serving Suggestions
This hearty burger is a meal in itself, but it pairs wonderfully with a crisp, cold beer or a tangy homemade lemonade. For a full diner-style experience, serve it on a checkered paper liner with a side of pickle spears and extra garlic aioli for dipping. To cut through the richness, a simple side salad with a vinaigrette dressing is an excellent choice.
How-to Summary
In short: Cook and cheese the patty, toast the bun, crisp the bacon, and prepare fries. Assemble by spreading aioli on the bun, placing the cheesy patty and bacon, and adding a handful of Parmesan fries directly on the burger before crowning with the top bun. A final crack of black pepper completes it.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely. While sharp cheddar provides excellent melt and flavor, Swiss, pepper jack, or blue cheese crumbles are fantastic alternatives that change the burger’s profile.
How do I prevent the burger from becoming soggy?
Ensure your bun is well-toasted to create a moisture barrier. Also, let the cooked patty rest for a minute off the heat before assembling to reduce excess juices.
What’s the best way to cook the bacon?
For flat, evenly crisp bacon, bake it on a wire rack set over a baking sheet at 400°F for 15-20 minutes. This method renders fat perfectly.
Can I make this without fries on the burger?
Yes, the fries are a fun, loaded topping but are optional. The burger is delicious with just the patty, cheese, bacon, and aioli.
How can I make the garlic aioli from scratch?
Whisk together 1/2 cup mayonnaise, 1 minced garlic clove, 1 tsp lemon juice, and a pinch of salt. Let it sit for 10 minutes before using for the best flavor.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overhandling the Meat: Form the patty gently to avoid a dense, tough texture.
- Not Toasting the Bun: A soft bun will quickly become soggy under the weight of the juicy patty and aioli.
- Adding Cheese Too Early: Only add cheese after flipping the patty to prevent it from burning or sliding off.
- Skipping the Rest: Letting the cooked patty rest for a minute allows juices to redistribute, preventing a messy first bite.
Conclusion
The Loaded Cheese & Bacon Burger is the ultimate indulgence, combining a juicy Angus patty, melted cheddar, crisp bacon, and the surprising crunch of Parmesan fries. By following the step-by-step guide and avoiding common pitfalls, you can easily recreate this gourmet pub-style burger at home. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that turns an ordinary meal into a memorable, flavor-packed experience. Enjoy the process and the delicious results!
