Smoky Western Bacon Stackers

Name: Smoky Western Bacon Stackers
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 burgers
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1.5 lb ground beef (80/20); 1 tsp smoked paprika; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp kosher salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 8 slices thick-cut bacon; 4 slices sharp cheddar cheese; 4 crispy onion rings; 1/4 cup smoky BBQ sauce; 4 brioche buns, toasted; 4 leaves green leaf lettuce; 4 slices ripe tomato

45 min 4 burgers Medium

All Recipes

Thick beef patties stacked with crispy bacon, tangy BBQ sauce, crunchy onion rings, and melted cheddar — a Western-style burger that means business.

Prep

25 min

Cook

15 min

Total

45 min

Servings

Difficulty

Medium

The Western bacon burger is an American classic for good reason. Layers of smoky beef, crispy bacon, sweet and tangy BBQ sauce, golden onion rings, and sharp cheddar create a flavor-packed tower that satisfies every craving.

Instructions

Cook the bacon

Cook bacon strips on the grill or in a skillet over medium heat until very crispy, about 8 minutes. Set aside on paper towels to drain.

Form the patties

Mix ground beef with smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Divide into 4 equal patties about 3/4 inch thick. Make a slight indent in the center of each to prevent puffing.

Grill the burgers

Grill the burgers Grill patties over high heat for 4-5 minutes per side for medium. Check that the internal temperature reaches 160°F / 71°C by inserting a meat thermometer into the center of each patty. Add a slice of cheddar during the last minute and close the lid to melt.

Toast the buns

Place buns cut-side down on the grill for 30-45 seconds until golden and lightly charred.

Stack and serve

Spread BBQ sauce on the bottom bun. Layer lettuce, tomato, the cheesy patty, two slices of crispy bacon, and a crunchy onion ring. Top with more BBQ sauce and the bun lid.

Pro tip: Secure tall burgers with a bamboo skewer to keep everything in place.