Bookmark
This crispy bacon burger recipe elevates your homemade burger game with a secret blend of seasonings and mix-ins that create an incredibly juicy, flavorful result. After perfecting this recipe through countless summer cookouts, I can confidently say these burgers disappear faster than any other food I serve.
I first made these burgers for a family reunion last summer when I was tasked with feeding 20 hungry relatives. Three people asked me for the recipe before dinner was even over, and now it has become our official family cookout tradition.
Ingredients
- Ground beef: Use 80/20 beef for the perfect fat content that creates juicy burgers without excessive shrinkage
- Garlic powder: Adds aromatic flavor without the texture of fresh garlic that can burn during cooking
- Onion powder: Provides savory notes throughout the patty without chunks of onion
- Smoked paprika: Creates a subtle smoky depth that enhances the bacon flavor
- Salt and pepper: Essential seasonings that bring all flavors together
- Red pepper flakes: Optional heat that balances the richness of the cheese and bacon
- Bacon: Cook until extra crispy for maximum texture and flavor contrast
- Cheddar cheese: Sharp cheddar works best for its melting properties and bold flavor
- Ranch dressing: The secret ingredient that keeps the burgers incredibly moist
- Worcestershire sauce: Adds umami depth that enhances the beef flavor
- Brioche buns: Their slight sweetness and soft texture perfectly complement the savory burger
- Butter: Use unsalted butter for bun toasting to control salt levels
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Mixture:
- Combine ground beef with all seasonings, crumbled bacon, cheese, ranch dressing, and Worcestershire sauce in a large bowl. Mix thoroughly but gently with your hands until evenly distributed. The mixture will feel slightly wet which ensures juicy burgers. Avoid overmixing which can make the burgers tough.
- Shape the Patties:
- Divide mixture into four equal portions using a kitchen scale if available. Form into patties slightly larger than your buns as they will shrink during cooking. Create a small dimple in the center of each patty with your thumb to prevent them from puffing up while cooking.
- Cook the Burgers:
- Heat your grill or skillet until very hot before adding patties. This creates immediate searing for flavor development. Cook approximately 4 minutes per side for medium doneness or adjust to your preference. Avoid pressing down on the patties which releases valuable juices.
- Toast the Buns:
- While burgers cook, spread butter generously on cut sides of brioche buns. Place cut side down in a separate pan over medium heat. Watch carefully as they toast quickly usually 1 to 2 minutes until golden brown. The toasted surface prevents soggy buns by creating a barrier against burger juices.
- Assemble the Burgers:
- Place each cooked patty onto the bottom half of a toasted bun. Add lettuce first if using to create another moisture barrier. Layer with tomato slices and pickles if desired. Apply additional condiments to the top bun before placing it on the burger.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Serve immediately while hot with plenty of napkins. These burgers are intentionally juicy and will create delicious drips with each bite. Consider serving with simple sides that complement but don't compete with the bold burger flavors.
Bookmark
The ranch dressing is truly the secret weapon in this recipe. I discovered this trick accidentally when I ran out of eggs as a binder and improvised with what was in my fridge. The result was so much better that I never went back to my original recipe.
Make Ahead Options
These burger patties actually benefit from being made a few hours ahead of cooking time. The flavors meld together beautifully when the mixture rests in the refrigerator. You can prepare the patties up to 24 hours in advance and keep them separated by parchment paper in an airtight container. This makes them perfect for preparing ahead of a busy cookout day when you want to minimize last minute work.
Flavor Variations
While the original recipe creates amazing burgers, you can customize based on your preferences. For a southwestern twist, replace the smoked paprika with ground cumin and add chopped green chiles to the mix. Looking for something with Italian flair? Substitute mozzarella for the cheddar, add dried Italian herbs, and serve with marinara as a condiment. For those seeking a healthier version, ground turkey can replace beef, though you may want to increase the Worcestershire sauce to enhance the flavor.
Bookmark
Serving Suggestions
These burgers are substantial enough to stand alone as a meal, but they pair beautifully with simple sides. Classic french fries or potato chips work well, but for something different, try sweet potato fries with a sprinkle of smoked paprika to echo the flavors in the burger. A light, vinegar-based coleslaw provides a refreshing contrast to the rich burger. For a complete backyard cookout experience, finish the meal with watermelon slices or a simple ice cream dessert.
The Science Behind The Juiciness
What makes these burgers exceptionally juicy is the strategic combination of ingredients. The fat from the bacon and cheddar melts during cooking, creating pockets of moisture throughout the patty. Meanwhile, the ranch dressing acts as both a flavor carrier and moisture retention agent. The protein structures in the beef trap these fats and liquids, releasing them gradually with each bite. This is why following the cooking instructions carefully matters the temperature needs to be high enough to sear the exterior quickly while allowing the interior to cook more gently.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → What makes these burgers so juicy?
The combination of ranch dressing, cheddar cheese, and bacon mixed directly into the ground beef creates moisture pockets that make these burgers exceptionally juicy. The Worcestershire sauce also helps tenderize the meat while adding depth of flavor.
- → Can I prepare these burger patties ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the patties up to 24 hours in advance and store them in the refrigerator. Place parchment paper between each patty to prevent sticking. You can also freeze the raw patties for up to 2 months.
- → What's the best way to cook these burgers?
These burgers taste amazing whether grilled outdoors, cooked in a cast-iron skillet, or prepared on a flat-top griddle. For the best caramelization and texture, cook over medium-high heat for about 4-5 minutes per side.
- → Can I substitute the ground beef?
Absolutely! While traditional ground beef (80/20 lean-to-fat ratio) delivers the juiciest results, you can substitute ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based alternatives. Just note that leaner meats may need additional moisture from extra ranch dressing.
- → What sides pair well with these burgers?
These flavorful burgers pair wonderfully with classic sides like french fries, sweet potato fries, onion rings, or a fresh garden salad. For something different, try serving them with grilled corn on the cob or potato salad.
- → How can I make these burgers spicier?
To increase the heat level, add more red pepper flakes to the mixture, incorporate diced jalapeños, substitute the cheddar with pepper jack cheese, or add a spicy aioli spread on the buns before serving.