Description
Bacon Ranch Burgers combine crispy smoky bacon, creamy tangy ranch dressing, and juicy beef patties to deliver a flavorful and satisfying burger experience. Perfect for weeknight dinners or cookouts, this recipe balances texture and bold flavors for the ultimate comfort food.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 or 85/15)
- 4 bacon strips
- 4 burger buns
- 4 lettuce leaves
- 4 tomato slices
- 4 cheese slices (sharp cheddar or pepper jack, optional)
- Ranch dressing, as needed
Seasonings
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- Garlic powder, a sprinkle
Instructions
- Prepare the Bacon: Cook the bacon strips in a skillet over medium heat until crispy but not burnt. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess grease and keep warm.
- Form and Season the Patties: Divide the ground beef into four equal portions and gently form each into a patty slightly larger than the burger buns. Season both sides with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
- Cook the Burgers: Heat a grill or skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the patties about 4–5 minutes per side for medium doneness, adjusting time for your preferred level.
- Melt the Cheese: During the last minute of cooking, place a slice of cheese on each patty and cover loosely to melt thoroughly.
- Toast the Buns: Lightly toast the burger buns on the grill or in a toaster oven until golden brown to add crunch and prevent sogginess.
- Assemble Your Bacon Ranch Burgers: Spread a generous layer of ranch dressing on the bottom bun, add the beef patty with melted cheese, layer with crispy bacon, fresh lettuce, and tomato slices, then place the top bun.
Notes
- Don’t overwork the beef; handle patties gently to keep them tender and juicy.
- Let the burgers rest a few minutes after cooking to redistribute juices for better flavor.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure patties reach 160°F for safety without drying out.
- Customize ranch dressing by mixing in fresh herbs or chipotle powder for added flavor.
- Cook bacon separately and add just before serving to maintain crispness.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 burger
- Calories: 550 kcal
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 800 mg
- Fat: 38 g
- Saturated Fat: 14 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 22 g
- Trans Fat: 1 g
- Carbohydrates: 30 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 35 g
- Cholesterol: 110 mg