Bacon And Hamburger Recipe

Indulge in a classic American favorite with a gourmet twist—Bacon and Hamburger. This recipe combines the rich, smoky flavor of crispy bacon with a juicy, flavorful hamburger patty. Perfect for backyard barbecues, weekend dinners, or a delicious treat any time of the week, this dish promises to satisfy both your cravings and your taste buds. The combination of tender beef and savory bacon, topped with fresh ingredients and your choice of condiments, ensures a delightful culinary experience. Follow this detailed recipe to create the perfect bacon and hamburger that will leave everyone asking for seconds.

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef (preferably 80/20 blend for juicier burgers)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 8 slices bacon
• 4 hamburger buns
• 4 slices of cheddar cheese (optional)
• 1 large onion, sliced
• 1 large tomato, sliced
• Lettuce leaves
• Pickles (optional)
• Ketchup, mustard, mayonnaise (optional)
• Olive oil (for grilling or frying)

Photo by Mel Audelo

Instructions

Prepare the Beef Patty Mixture:

• In a large bowl, combine the ground beef with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Mix gently until the seasonings are evenly distributed.

Form the Patties:

• Divide the beef mixture into four equal portions. Shape each portion into a patty approximately 3/4 inch thick. Use your thumb to press a slight indentation in the center of each patty; this helps the burgers cook evenly.

Cook the Bacon:

• In a large skillet, cook the bacon over medium heat until crisp, about 4-6 minutes per side. Remove the bacon and drain on paper towels. Set aside.

Cook the Hamburgers:

• Either preheat a grill to medium-high heat or heat a skillet over medium-high heat with a drizzle of olive oil. Cook the hamburger patties for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until they reach your desired level of doneness. If using cheese, place a slice of cheddar on each patty during the last minute of cooking and cover the grill or skillet to melt.

Toast the Buns:

• While the patties are cooking, split the hamburger buns and toast them lightly on the grill or in the skillet until golden brown.

Assemble the Burgers:

• Place a lettuce leaf on the bottom half of each toasted bun. Top with a hamburger patty, then two slices of bacon, followed by sliced onion, tomato, and pickles if using. Add condiments of your choice on the top half of the bun and place it over the assembled patty.

Serve Immediately:

• Serve your bacon and hamburger immediately while hot and savor the delicious fusion of flavors.

Servings

This recipe makes 4 servings, providing one delicious bacon and hamburger per person.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Photo by Jonathan Borba

Tools Needed

• Skillet or grill pan
• Spatula
• Tongs
• Meat thermometer
• Plate and paper towels for draining bacon
• Mixing bowl (optional)

Tips for Preparing the Recipe

• Temperature Matters: Ensure your skillet or grill pan is preheated to medium-high before adding the bacon or hamburger. This helps achieve a great sear.
• Even Cooking: Press down on the hamburger patty with a spatula for even cooking, but avoid pressing too much to retain juices.
• Drain Bacon Properly: Once cooked, place the bacon on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess grease.
• Resting Time: Allow the hamburger to rest for about 5 minutes after cooking to let the juices redistribute, making it juicier.
• Check the Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the hamburger. It should reach 160°F (71°C) for safe consumption.
• Customize Seasonings: Feel free to add seasoning like pepper, garlic powder, or smoked paprika to enhance the flavors.

Skill Level

• Intermediate

Photo by Nano Erdozain

Serving and Presentation Recommendations

Serve the bacon and hamburger with fresh lettuce, tomato slices, and avocado for a wholesome and colorful plate. Consider placing the bacon strips on top of the hamburger for a layered effect. Accompany with a crisp side salad, or opt for sweet potato fries. Present on a large platter garnished with pickles and a side ramekin filled with your favorite dipping sauce or ketchup.

Storage Conditions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate within two hours of cooking. The bacon and hamburger can be stored separately or together as long as they remain airtight. They will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze the cooked hamburger patties wrapped individually in plastic wrap and then placed in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on a skillet over medium heat.

Health Benefits

• High Protein: This meal is rich in protein, which is essential for muscle growth and repair.
• Iron: Both bacon and hamburger can contribute to your daily iron intake, important for carrying oxygen in the blood.
• Zinc: Red meat is a good source of zinc, crucial for immune function and cellular metabolism.
• B Vitamins: Hamburger patties provide B vitamins, including B12, essential for nerve function and blood formation.

Recommendations for Vegans

For vegan alternatives, replace the hamburger with a plant-based burger patty made from beans, lentils, or soy. Opt for vegan bacon made from tempeh or coconut strips to replicate the texture and flavor. Ensure to use plant-based oils for cooking and check that all condiments are vegan-friendly.

Similar Recipes

• Cheeseburger with Avocado
• BBQ Bacon Burger
• Turkey and Bacon Burger
• Vegan Lentil Burger
• Portobello Mushroom Burger

I hope you find this information helpful! Enjoy your cooking and savor every bite!