Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 for best juiciness)
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
- 8 slices bacon
- 4 slices cheddar or smoked gouda cheese
- 4 burger buns (brioche recommended)
- 1/2 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite style)
- Optional toppings: crispy onion strings, pickles, red onion, lettuce
Instructions
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Cook the Bacon
In a skillet over medium heat, cook bacon until crispy. Transfer to paper towels and set aside. -
Form the Patties
Divide ground beef into 4 equal portions. Gently shape into patties slightly larger than the buns. Season both sides with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. -
Cook the Burgers
Grill over medium-high heat or cook in a skillet for 4–5 minutes per side, or until desired doneness. -
Add Cheese & BBQ Sauce
During the last minute of cooking, brush the patties with BBQ sauce and top with cheese. Cover briefly to melt. -
Toast the Buns
Lightly toast buns on the grill or in a pan until golden. -
Assemble
Place burger patties on buns, top with bacon and optional toppings, add extra BBQ sauce if desired, and serve immediately.
Notes
Cooking Tips
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Don’t overwork the beef—gentle shaping keeps burgers tender.
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Make a small thumbprint in the center of each patty to prevent puffing.
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Warm the BBQ sauce slightly before brushing for better coverage and flavor.
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Use thick-cut bacon for maximum crunch and smoky flavor.
Variations
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Spicy BBQ Burger: Add pepper jack cheese and sliced jalapeños.
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Smoky Western Burger: Top with onion rings and smoked cheddar.
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Turkey BBQ Burger: Swap beef for ground turkey and brush with extra sauce to keep it moist.
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Low-Carb Option: Serve wrapped in lettuce instead of a bun.
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Breakfast-Style: Add a fried egg for an ultra-indulgent twist.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12-15 minutes
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 620
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 980mg
- Fat: 40g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 34g