Go Back
–+ servings
Juicy bacon and cheddar smash burger on a toasted bun with crispy tortilla chips.

Bacon and Cheddar Smash Burgers

These burgers are what happen when a regular cheeseburger decides to show off. Crispy-edged beef, smoky bacon, sweet onions, and melty cheddar pile into a messy, overachieving burger that is absolutely worth the napkins.
No ratings yet
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Course Main Course
Servings 2

EQUIPMENT (PAID LINKS)

  • Large skillet, cast-iron skillet, or flat-top griddle
  • Medium mixing bowl
  • Spatula or burger press
  • Knife
  • Cutting board
  • Plate
  • Lid or melting dome

Ingredients
  

  • 4 slices bacon
  • 1 medium onion thinly sliced
  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons garlic powder
  • 4 slices cheddar cheese
  • 2 brioche buns
  • 1 tablespoon water
  • Ketchup mustard, mayo, pickles, or other toppings, optional

Instructions

  • Cook the Bacon: Place the bacon in a large skillet or on a griddle over medium heat. Cook until crisp, then transfer to a plate lined with paper towels.
    4 slices bacon
  • Cook the Onions: Add the sliced onion to the skillet or griddle with a little of the bacon fat. Cook for 8 to 10 minutes, stirring often, until soft and browned. Move the onions to a plate.
    1 medium onion
    Top-down view of golden caramelized onions in a dark skillet on a marble surface.
  • Season the Beef: In a medium bowl, gently mix the ground beef with the salt, black pepper, and garlic powder until just combined.
    1 pound ground beef, 1 teaspoon salt, 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, 1 1/2 teaspoons garlic powder
  • Form the Meat Balls: Divide the beef mixture into 4 equal portions and shape them into loose balls.
  • Smash the Patties: Heat the skillet or griddle over medium-high to high heat. Place the beef balls on the hot surface and press each one down firmly with a spatula or burger press until thin.
  • Cook the First Side: Let the patties cook without moving them for 2 to 3 minutes, until the bottoms are deeply browned and crisp around the edges.
  • Flip and Top the Patties: Flip each patty and cook for 1 to 2 minutes more. Top each patty with some cooked onion, 1 slice of bacon, and 1 slice of cheddar cheese.
    4 slices cheddar cheese
    Four beef patties topped with melted cheese, onions, and bacon sizzling in a cast-iron skillet.
  • Melt the Cheese: Pour the water onto the hot griddle away from the burgers, then quickly cover with a lid or melting dome for about 30 to 60 seconds, until the cheese is melted.
    1 tablespoon water
  • Toast the Buns: While the cheese melts, place the brioche buns cut-side down on the skillet or griddle and toast until lightly golden, about 1 minute.
    2 brioche buns
  • Assemble the Burgers: Place 2 patties on the bottom half of each bun to make 2 double burgers. Add any optional toppings, then place the top bun on.
    Ketchup
  • Serve: Serve immediately while hot and gloriously messy.