The Bacon and Burger is a delectable dish that perfectly combines the savory taste of crispy bacon with the juicy flavor of a perfectly grilled burger patty. This mouthwatering creation is a staple in American cuisine, loved by many for its satisfying textures and robust taste. The addition of bacon elevates the classic burger to new heights, providing a smoky richness that complements the meat beautifully. Whether you’re preparing it for a backyard barbecue, a weekend get-together, or a cozy dinner at home, this dish is bound to please everyone around the table. You can customize it with your favorite toppings, from fresh lettuce and tomatoes to gourmet cheeses and special sauces, making each burger uniquely your own. Get ready to indulge in a burger experience that’s not only filling but also bursting with flavor with every bite.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend for optimal juiciness)
- 8 slices of bacon
- 4 burger buns
- 4 slices of cheddar cheese (optional)
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- Lettuce leaves, for garnish
- Tomato slices, for garnish
- Pickles, for garnish
- Condiments (ketchup, mustard, mayonnaise), as desired
Photo by Mel Audelo
Instructions
Cook the Bacon: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon slices until they are crispy. Once cooked, remove them from the skillet and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess grease.
Prepare the Burger Patties: While the bacon cooks, form the ground beef into four equal patties. Make a small indentation in the center of each patty with your thumb to prevent them from puffing up while cooking. Season both sides with salt and black pepper.
Grill the Burgers: In the same skillet or on a grill over medium-high heat, cook the burger patties for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until they reach your desired level of doneness. If using cheese, place a slice on each patty during the last minute of cooking to allow it to melt.
Toast the Buns: While the burgers are cooking, slice the burger buns in half and toast them in a separate pan or on the grill until they are golden brown.
Assemble the Burgers: Start with the bottom half of the toasted bun. Place the cooked burger patty on top, followed by two slices of crispy bacon. Layer on the lettuce, tomato, and pickles. Add your preferred condiments before placing the top half of the bun on.
Serve: Slice in half if desired and serve immediately while hot.
Servings
This recipe yields 4 servings, allowing you to enjoy a delicious Bacon and Burger with family or friends.
Nutritional Information
| Nutrients | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 800 kcal |
| Total Fat | 50 g |
| Saturated Fat | 20 g |
| Cholesterol | 120 mg |
| Sodium | 1200 mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 35 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 2 g |
| Sugars | 8 g |
| Protein | 40 g |
| Vitamin A | 10% DV |
| Vitamin C | 2% DV |
| Calcium | 8% DV |
| Iron | 15% DV |
Photo by Jonathan Borba
Tools Needed
- Grill or stovetop skillet
- Spatula
- Meat thermometer
- Mixing bowl
- Knife and cutting board
- Tongs
- Serving platter
Preparation Tips
Choosing the Right Meat: For the best flavor and texture, opt for ground beef with a higher fat content (at least 80% lean) to ensure juicy burgers. You could also mix in bacon bits directly into the burger patties for an extra delicious twist.
Seasoning: Always season your patties generously with salt and pepper. This enhances the natural flavors and creates a savory crust during cooking.
Forming Patties: When shaping the burger patties, avoid overworking the meat to keep them tender. Make a slight indention with your thumb in the center of each patty to prevent them from puffing up while cooking.
Cooking Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. A medium burger should be cooked to an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).
Resting Time: Let your burgers rest for a few minutes after cooking. This allows the juices to redistribute within the meat, leading to a juicier bite.
Bacon Addition: Cook the bacon until crispy and let it drain on paper towels to remove excess fat, ensuring it doesn’t make the burger soggy.
Cheese Lover’s Touch: If you’re adding cheese, place a slice on top of the burger patty during the last minute of cooking and cover it to help it melt perfectly.
Toast the Buns: Toasting the hamburger buns lightly on the grill or skillet adds a delightful crunch and helps prevent them from becoming soggy.
Difficulty Level
Intermediate: This recipe requires basic grilling techniques, attention to timing for cooking the meat and bacon properly, and an understanding of seasoning.
Photo by Nano Erdozain
Serving and Presentation Recommendations
To serve your Bacon and Burger, place each patty on a toasted bun, layering the crispy bacon on top. You can enhance the presentation by adding fresh lettuce, tomato, onion, and pickles. Consider a side of crispy fries or a refreshing coleslaw for balance. To elevate the experience, provide a selection of gourmet sauces such as barbecue, aioli, or spicy ketchup in small ramekins as accompaniments. Serve the burgers on a wooden board for a rustic feel, garnished with fresh herbs for a pop of color.
Storage Conditions
Store any leftover bacon and burgers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can last for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, you may freeze the cooked patties and bacon separately in freezer bags, where they can maintain their quality for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then warm on the skillet over medium heat until heated through. Avoid reheating in the microwave, as it can render the burgers dry.
Health Benefits
While bacon and burger may not be the lightest meal, they can provide several health benefits. The protein from the beef contributes to muscle development and repair, while bacon adds flavor and protein as well. Additionally, burgers can be an excellent source of iron and vitamin B12, both essential for maintaining energy levels and forming red blood cells. Opting for whole-grain buns or adding leafy greens can also increase fiber intake, which is beneficial for digestion.
Recommendations for Vegans
For those following a vegan lifestyle, consider substituting the burger patty with a plant-based option such as a black bean burger or an Impossible Burger. You can also replace bacon with smoked tempeh or coconut bacon, which adds a similar texture and smoky flavor without animal products. Choose vegan mayonnaise or aioli for condiments and ensure your buns are dairy-free.
Similar Recipes
- Classic Cheeseburger
- BBQ Bacon Burger
- Mushroom Swiss Burger
- Turkey and Bacon Burger
- Portobello Mushroom Burger
- Bacon Cheeseburger Sliders
Enjoy crafting this delicious and satisfying Bacon and Burger recipe that makes for the perfect meal for any occasion!
