Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Cook bacon until crispy. Crumble into small pieces.
- In a skillet over medium heat, sauté chopped onion and minced garlic until softened and fragrant (5-7 minutes).
- In a large bowl, combine ground beef, crumbled bacon, sautéed onions and garlic, shredded cheddar cheese, softened cream cheese, Worcestershire sauce, BBQ sauce, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Gently mix all ingredients until just combined. Do not overmix.
- Divide mixture into 4-6 equal portions. Gently form each portion into a patty, about ¾ inch thick. Make a small indentation in the center of each patty.
- Cover patties with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
- Preheat grill or skillet over medium-high heat. If using a skillet, add 1 tablespoon of oil.
- Cook burgers for about 5-7 minutes per side, or until they reach an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C). Use a meat thermometer.
- While burgers are cooking, toast burger buns lightly.
- Spread favorite condiments on toasted buns. Add cooked burger patty, and top with desired toppings like lettuce, tomato, pickles, and red onion.
- Serve immediately and enjoy!
Notes
Don't overmix the ground beef to avoid tough burgers. Chilling patties is crucial for flavor melding and shape retention. Always use a meat thermometer to ensure proper cooking. Let the burgers rest for a few minutes after cooking for juicier results. For a spicy kick, add cayenne pepper or hot sauce. Experiment with different cheeses and toppings to customize your burger. Consider using maple-smoked or peppered bacon for a unique flavor twist.