Name: Bacon Cheeseburger (With Crispy Onions)
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 22 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef (80/20); 1 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 1/2 tsp garlic powder; 4 slices cheddar or American cheese; 6 slices cooked bacon; 1 cup crispy fried onions; 4 burger buns, toasted; Lettuce leaves; Tomato slices; Pickles (optional); Ketchup, mayonnaise, or burger sauce; 1 tbsp butter or oil for cooking

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This Bacon Cheeseburger with Crispy Onions is a rich, indulgent, and intensely flavorful burger featuring a juicy beef patty topped with smoky bacon, melted cheese, and golden fried onions. Served on a toasted bun with your choice of condiments, this burger delivers a restaurant-quality experience right at home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is designed for burger lovers who want something more elevated than a basic cheeseburger. The beef patty is seasoned simply yet perfectly, allowing the natural flavor of the meat to shine. The crispy bacon adds smokiness, while the fried onions introduce a satisfying crunchy layer that makes each bite unforgettable. It is easy to prepare, versatile in toppings, and perfect for weeknight dinners, cookouts, or game day gatherings.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

ground beef (80/20 recommended)
salt
black pepper
garlic powder
sliced cheddar or American cheese
crispy fried onions
cooked bacon strips
burger buns, toasted
lettuce
tomatoes
pickles
condiments: mayonnaise, ketchup, mustard, or special burger sauce

Directions

Form the beef into patties, gently shaping without over-working. Make a small indentation in the center to prevent puffing.
Season both sides of each patty with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
Heat a grill or skillet over medium-high heat.
Cook the patties for 3–4 minutes per side or until they reach your preferred doneness.
During the final minute, top each patty with cheese and cover to melt.
Toast the burger buns lightly in the pan or on the grill.
Assemble by layering lettuce, tomato, and pickles on the bottom bun.
Add the cheesy burger patty, then top with crispy onions and cooked bacon.
Spread condiments on the top bun and close the burger.
Serve immediately.

Servings and Timing

Serves: 4
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 8–10 minutes
Total Time: approximately 20 minutes

Variations

Spicy Bacon Burger: Add jalapeños or spicy mayo.
BBQ Bacon Burger: Add barbecue sauce and grilled onions.
Mushroom Swiss Burger: Swap crispy onions for sautéed mushrooms and Swiss cheese.
Turkey or Chicken Patty: Substitute lighter meats if desired.
Double-Stack Burger: Layer two patties for a hearty meal.

Storage/Reheating

Store cooked patties separately in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat in a skillet or oven to retain juiciness.
Avoid reheating an assembled burger.
Cooked patties can be frozen for up to 2 months.

FAQs

Why are my burger patties dry?

Overcooking or using lean meat (like 90/10) can cause dryness. Use 80/20 beef for best results.

Can I use a grill instead of a skillet?

Yes, grilling works perfectly and adds great smoky flavor.

Should I season the meat before forming patties?

Season after forming the patties to avoid toughening the mixture.

Why do my burgers puff up?

If you skip creating a center indentation, the patties may dome as they cook.

Can I use store-bought fried onions?

Yes, they are convenient, crunchy, and ideal for this recipe.

Can I freeze raw patties?

Yes, freeze uncooked patties with parchment between layers.

Which cheese melts best?

American cheese melts beautifully, followed by cheddar and provolone.

Can I add sauce inside the burger?

Yes—“smash-style” sauce layering is delicious but messy.

Why does my cheese not melt?

Cover the pan for 20–30 seconds; steam helps it melt smoothly.

What buns are best?

Brioche buns add sweetness and softness that pair well with the savory fillings.

Conclusion

This Bacon Cheeseburger with Crispy Onions combines juicy beef, melted cheese, smoky bacon, and crunchy onions to create an unforgettable burger experience. Easy to prepare and endlessly customizable, it is ideal for cookouts, special dinners, or whenever you crave a hearty, indulgent meal. Every bite is packed with flavor and texture, making this burger a must-try recipe for any home cook.

Bacon Cheeseburger (With Crispy Onions)

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A juicy bacon cheeseburger loaded with melted cheese, crispy fried onions, and classic toppings, creating a flavorful and satisfying meal.

Author: Emma Harper
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 12 mins
Total Time: 22 mins
Yield: 4 burgers 1x
Category: Main Course
Method: Stovetop/Grill
Cuisine: American
Diet: Halal

Instructions

Season the ground beef with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Form into 4 equal patties, slightly wider than the buns.
Heat a skillet or grill over medium-high heat and add butter or oil.
Cook patties for 3–4 minutes per side, or until desired doneness.
Place cheese slices on the patties during the last minute of cooking to melt.
Lightly toast burger buns on the skillet or grill.
Assemble the burger: spread your preferred sauce on the bottom bun, then add lettuce and tomato.
Place the cheesy burger patty on top, add bacon slices, and top with a generous pile of crispy fried onions.
Add pickles if desired, then place on the top bun. Serve warm.