How To Make the Ultimate Bacon Burger at Home

Jul 08, 2024 / MIN READ

There’s nothing quite like the allure of a delicious homemade bacon burger, especially when you’ve handmade it for the whole family. With juicy patties, crisp bacon and mouthwatering flavors straight from your kitchen, you’re sure to impress your loved ones every time.

Read on to explore step-by-step instructions for preparing the ultimate bacon burger at home, along with tips and tricks for achieving the best results.

Why make a bacon burger at home?

If you’re tired of having the same drab dinner night after night, a bacon cheeseburger recipe might be just the mealtime adventure you’ve been looking for. Making a burger at home gives you full control over the ingredients, allowing you to easily customize the recipe to suit your family’s preferences and dietary needs. Plus, you can experiment with different flavor combinations and cooking techniques to add a personal touch to the dish. With fresh, high-quality ingredients at the ready, you’ll guarantee a superior taste. This eliminates the need to dine out, which saves you money while providing a delicious meal the whole family will love.

Your guide to making a perfect bacon burger at home

Serves: 4
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min

Ingredients

  • 1 pack Hatfield® Hardwood Smoked Bacon.
  • 1 pound ground beef (preferably an 80/20 blend).
  • 4 brioche hamburger buns.
  • 4 slices of cheddar cheese or American cheese.
  • 1 Tbsp. Worcestershire sauce.
  • Lettuce leaves.
  • Sliced tomatoes.
  • ¼ cup sweet onion, diced.
  • Salt and pepper, to taste.
  • Pickles, optional.
  • Condiments of your choice (ketchup, mustard, mayo, etc.).

Step-by-step instructions to prepare the ultimate homemade bacon burger

  • Prepare the bacon: Heat a skillet over medium heat, and place the Hatfield® Hardwood Smoked Bacon slices in the skillet. Cook until the slices are crispy, flipping occasionally. Once done, transfer the bacon to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess grease and set aside.
  • Season and shape the patties: In a mixing bowl, combine the ground beef with Worcestershire sauce, salt and pepper. Mix gently until the seasonings are evenly distributed. Then, divide the seasoned beef into four equal portions and shape each portion into a patty about one inch thick.
  • Cook the patties: Preheat a grill or a large skillet over medium-high heat. Place your formed patties on the grill or skillet and cook for about four to five minutes on each side — or until they’re cooked to your preference. During the last minute of cooking, place a slice of American or sharp cheddar cheese on each patty to melt.
  • Toast the buns: While the patties are cooking, lightly toast your brioche hamburger buns on the grill or in a toaster oven until golden brown.
  • Assemble the bacon burgers: To assemble each burger, start with the bottom half of a toasted brioche bun. Then, layer with lettuce leaves, a cooked beef patty with melted cheese, two slices of crisp bacon, sliced tomatoes, diced sweet onion and pickles if desired. Finally, spread your favorite condiments on the top half of the toasted bun.
  • Serve and enjoy: Once assembled, place the top bun over the fillings to complete the burger, and serve while warm.

If you’re ready to jump in, you can head to your local grocery store to pick up your favorite Hatfield® pork products today!

Tips for the best results every time

Discover a few helpful hints to keep in mind as you get started:

  • Choose the right ingredients: It’s always best to start with high-quality ingredients, which includes an 80/20 blend of ground beef for juicier burgers, fresh vegetables and premium buns, like brioche or sesame seed. Plus, with pre-seasoned bacon from Hatfield®, you ensure a rich, smoky flavor that makes a noticeable difference.
  • Season generously: Don’t skimp on seasoning your beef patties! Salt, pepper and a splash of Worcestershire sauce make your burgers flavorful and delicious — especially when you add your favorite condiments to the mix.
  • Layer your toppings strategically: A toasted bun not only adds a nice crunch but also helps prevent your burger from becoming soggy. You can create an additional barrier by starting with lettuce on the bottom bun. By melting the cheese over the patties in the last minute of cooking, you still get a creamy, delicious layer — without the dreaded sogginess.
  • Experiment with sauces and add-ons: Feel free to get creative with sauces like aioli, barbecue or sriracha mayo. You might also include add-ons like avocado or sautéed mushrooms to boost your burger’s flavor profile.
  • Check the meat for doneness: To ensure your meat is fully cooked, use a meat thermometer. Bacon should reach an internal temperature of 145°F, while burgers should be cooked to 160°F. That way, you can rest assured your meat ingredients are juicy and safe to eat.

Homemade bacon burger FAQs

Explore answers to some of the most commonly asked questions for homemade bacon burgers:

Does it matter what type of bacon I use?

While the bacon will impact the overall flavor and texture of this recipe, you can choose any type you and your loved ones prefer. For a more substantial bite, try Hatfield® Maple Brown Sugar Bacon, Extra Thick Cut. Or, if you prefer a leaner option, consider Hatfield® No Antibiotics Ever Uncured Hardwood Smoked Bacon.

What’s the best way to cook a burger patty?

The best way to cook homemade bacon burgers depends on your personal preference and available equipment. Many prefer grilling for a smoky flavor and appealing grill marks. However, pan-frying your burgers in a skillet with a little oil can provide greater control over cooking temperature and ensure even browning.

What sides can you pair with a bacon burger?

Here are a few sides to complement your burger and enhance the dining experience for your loved ones:

  • Classic and crispy French fries.
  • Crunchy and flavorful onion rings for a satisfying bite.
  • A side salad with fresh greens, tomatoes and a light vinaigrette.
  • Creamy coleslaw for a refreshing contrast.
  • Lightly seasoned and charred veggies for a nutritious and colorful touch.
  • Creamy and tangy potato salad.
  • Grilled or steamed corn on the cob.

How long will a leftover bacon burger last?

Can’t finish your meal? No problem! You can store leftover bacon burgers in the refrigerator for up to three to four days, but be sure to place them in an airtight container to maintain freshness. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply reheat your burgers in the microwave or oven until warmed through.

Elevate your bacon burgers with ingredients from Hatfield®

From crafting custom flavors to savoring fresh ingredients, homemade bacon burgers deliver pure satisfaction in every bite — so they’re perfect for your next family feast. And when it comes to top-notch taste and peace of mind, Hatfield® is here to help. Our lineup of pre-seasoned pork products and commitment to quality ensures your meal is not only safe but also bursting with flavor.

Ready to effortlessly level up your burger game? Head to your local grocery store to pick up your favorite Hatfield pork products today.