Ultimate Cheesy Bacon Burger (Print Version)

Juicy beef patties with cheddar and bacon, stacked on toasted brioche buns with a tangy homemade sauce.

# Ingredients:

→ For the Patties

01 - 2 pounds ground beef (80/20 blend)
02 - 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
03 - 2 cloves garlic, minced
04 - 1 teaspoon onion powder
05 - 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
06 - 1 teaspoon salt
07 - 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

→ For the Toppings

08 - 8 slices thick-cut bacon
09 - 8 slices cheddar cheese
10 - 4 brioche burger buns, sliced and toasted
11 - 2 tablespoons butter
12 - 1 medium red onion, sliced
13 - 1 large tomato, sliced
14 - Lettuce leaves
15 - Pickles

→ For the Burger Sauce

16 - 1/2 cup mayonnaise
17 - 2 tablespoons ketchup
18 - 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
19 - 1 teaspoon pickle juice
20 - 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika

# Steps:

01 - Arrange bacon slices in a cold skillet and place over medium heat. Cook until fat renders and bacon is crisp, about 4 to 6 minutes per side. Transfer to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
02 - Combine ground beef, Worcestershire sauce, garlic, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper in a mixing bowl. Gently mix until just combined. Divide into 4 equal portions, form into patties about 3/4 inch thick, and create a shallow indent in the center of each.
03 - Heat a grill or heavy skillet over medium-high heat. Place patties onto the hot surface and cook for 3 to 4 minutes per side for medium doneness. During the final minute, place a slice of cheddar cheese on each patty and cover to melt.
04 - Spread butter on the cut sides of brioche buns. Place buns, buttered side down, on a skillet or grill until golden and toasted.
05 - Spread burger sauce on both bun halves. On the bottom bun, layer lettuce, sliced tomato, and pickles. Add the cheese-topped beef patty, then top with crispy bacon and red onion slices. Cap with the top bun and apply gentle pressure to set.

# Notes:

01 - For evenly cooked bacon, bake on a wire rack set over a sheet pan at 400°F for 15 to 18 minutes.