Western Bacon Cheeseburger BBQ

Craving something hearty and comforting The Western Bacon Cheeseburger might just hit the spot It captures everything you want in a diner style burger juicy beef seasoned perfectly crispy bacon melty cheese crunchy onion rings with a generous layer of barbecue sauce to pull it all together

Ingredients

• Bacon: brings a salty crunch go with thick cut bacon for extra texture
• Frozen onion rings: this shortcut saves time and gives a reliably crisp bite
• Paprika: boosts the smoky flavor choose smoked paprika for more depth
• Garlic powder: enhances savory notes always pick a fresh bottle for full flavor
• Kosher salt: helps the burger hold onto juiciness I use a flaky salt for a nice finish
• Black pepper: for just enough heat freshly cracked is best
• Ground beef: use eighty twenty for super juicy patties always check that beef looks bright red when buying
• American cheese: melts beautifully choose deli slices for richer taste
• BBQ sauce: the star of the show pick your favorite brand I love Kinders for its bold flavor
• Hamburger buns: go with sturdy buns that toast up well in the skillet or grill

Step by Step Instructions

Cook the bacon:

Start by heating a large skillet over medium heat Lay out your bacon slices and let them cook slowly turning them occasionally until every strip is golden and crispy Remove and drain on paper towels The key is to go slow here for crispier bacon

Prepare the onion rings:

Follow the instructions on the onion ring package Most bake at four hundred degrees for eleven to fifteen minutes You want them extra crispy so do not overcrowd the pan Once cooked set aside

Mix the seasoning:

In a small bowl blend together paprika garlic powder salt and black pepper This creates an even coating so every bite of burger is full of flavor

Shape and season the patties:

Take your ground beef and divide it into four equal portions Roll each into a loose ball then press gently to make thick patties about the same width as your buns Press a little dent in the middle of each patty with your thumb so they cook flat Sprinkle both sides generously with your spice blend

Cook the burgers:

Heat your grill or skillet on medium high Carefully place the patties down and do not press with your spatula Grill the first side for four to five minutes Flip once add a slice of cheese to each burger and let them finish cooking for about two more minutes until the cheese is melted and the juices run clear Rest the burgers for a minute before building

Toast the buns:

Once the burgers are done place your buns cut side down on the grill for about one minute until they start to turn golden This step gives a subtle crunch and keeps the buns from getting soggy

Assemble:

Start with the bottom bun Spread a thick layer of barbecue sauce Lay down two crispy onion rings then your cheesy burger patty Top with two strips of that perfect bacon and finish with the top bun

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Storage Tips

Keep leftover cooked patties and bacon refrigerated in an airtight container for up to three days I warm them in a skillet to preserve their texture If building the burgers in advance separate each layer with parchment to avoid soggy buns and limp onion rings

Ingredient Substitutions

You can swap ground beef for ground turkey or even a plant based patty if you like For the cheese try swapping in sharp cheddar or pepper jack for a punchier taste Homemade onion rings work if you have time but store bought are great for speed

Serving Suggestions

Serve these burgers with classic fries sweet potato fries or even a fresh summer salad For a backyard cookout offer a toppings bar with pickles jalapenos and extra barbecue sauce My family loves them beside crunchy coleslaw on a hot day

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The Burger’s Roots

The Western bacon cheeseburger is a menu staple at old school American diners and burger drive thrus It is especially popular in the West and Southwest where smoky barbecue flavors draw big crowds There is something nostalgic about biting into a burger stacked high with all these hearty toppings

Frequently Asked Questions

→ How do I keep the patties juicy?

Use 80/20 ground beef for optimal fat content, avoid pressing the patties while cooking, and allow them to rest before assembling.

→ Can I bake the bacon instead of frying?

Yes, bake bacon on a parchment or foil-lined sheet at 400°F for 8-10 minutes until desired crispiness.

→ What type of cheese works best?

American cheese melts smoothly and adds classic flavor, but you can substitute cheddar or pepper jack if preferred.

→ Do I need to use frozen onion rings?

Frozen onion rings save time, but homemade onion rings are a delicious alternative if you prefer fresh ingredients.

→ Which barbecue sauce should I use?

Use your favorite brand or homemade barbecue sauce for a tangy kick; Kinders is one suggested option.