🍔 The Ultimate Loaded Bacon & Cheese Burger
Yields: 4 Burgers | Prep time: 15 mins | Cook time: 10 mins
Ingredients
For the Patties:
- 1.5 lbs (700g) Ground beef (80/20 lean-to-fat ratio is best for juiciness)
- 1 tsp Garlic powder
- Salt & Black pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce (optional, for extra depth)
The Toppings:
- 4 High-quality Brioche buns
- 8 slices of Thick-cut smoked bacon
- 4 thick slices of Sharp Cheddar or 1/2 cup liquid Nacho cheese sauce (for that “molten” look)
- Fresh Lettuce (shredded)
- Caramelized onions (slow-cooked with a bit of butter)
The Signature Secret Sauce:
- 1/2 cup Mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp Ketchup
- 1 tbsp Yellow mustard
- 1 tsp Smoked paprika
- 1 tbsp Finely minced pickles (or relish)
Instructions
- Prep the Bacon & Onions: Fry the bacon until crispy. In the same pan, sauté thin onion slices in the bacon fat until golden brown and soft. Set aside.
- Make the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the mayo, ketchup, mustard, paprika, and minced pickles. Refrigerate until ready to serve.
- Form the Patties: Gently shape the beef into 4 thick patties. Make a small indentation in the center with your thumb (this prevents the burger from “bloating” while cooking). Season generously with salt, pepper, and garlic powder right before hitting the pan.
- Grill/Sear: Heat a cast-iron skillet or grill to high heat. Sear the patties for 3-4 minutes per side for a perfect medium. In the last minute of cooking, add your cheese slices and cover with a lid to get that perfect melt.
- Toast the Buns: Spread a little butter on the buns and toast them on the pan until golden and crispy.
- Assemble:
- Start with the bottom bun and a generous spread of Secret Sauce.
- Add a layer of shredded lettuce.
- Place the cheesy patty on top.
- Pile on the caramelized onions and crispy bacon.
- Finish with more sauce on the top bun and press down gently.
Engagement Tip for your Group:
”I always toast my buns with a bit of garlic butter—it’s the secret to that restaurant taste! How do you like your burger cooked: Medium or Well Done? Let me know in the comments! 👇”
