Savory Beef and Bacon Burgers

Name: Savory Beef and Bacon Burgers
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef (80/20); 4 strips of bacon, chopped; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce; Salt and pepper to taste; 4 hamburger buns; Lettuce, tomato, onion, and cheese for toppings

Highlighted under: World Cuisine

I absolutely love grilling up savory beef and bacon burgers on warm evenings. The combination of juicy beef with crisp bacon creates an irresistible flavor that never fails to please. When I bite into the burger, the smoky bacon complements the rich beef perfectly, while the toppings and sauces add just the right amount of zest. It's a simple yet satisfying meal that can easily be customized to suit any taste. Whether cooking for friends or just for myself, these burgers have become a go-to favorite in my household.

Created by

Lara

Last updated on 2026-01-20T12:38:29.361Z

When I first made these savory beef and bacon burgers, I was amazed at how quickly they disappeared! Friends were asking for seconds and thirds, and I couldn't blame them. I learned that mixing in chopped bacon with the ground beef adds a depth of flavor and a mouthwatering juiciness that ordinary burgers just can't match.

Over the years, I’ve experimented with seasoning and toppings, finding that a simple mix of garlic powder and Worcestershire sauce gives the beef a tremendous boost. Remember to let the burgers rest for a few minutes after grilling for that juicy finish – it truly makes all the difference!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Juicy beef infused with smoky bacon flavor
Customizable toppings to suit everyone's taste
Perfect for barbeques and family gatherings

      

Perfecting Your Patties

Creating the perfect burger patty involves more than just mixing ingredients; it's about understanding the meat's texture. The 80/20 ratio of ground beef ensures a juicy burger, while the added bacon contributes both flavor and fat, preventing dryness. When mixing the meat, aim for a gentle hand—overworking could lead to tough patties. Aim for a cohesive but not overly compact mix to keep the burgers tender and juicy after cooking.

Shaping the patties with an indentation in the center may seem trivial, but it plays a crucial role in even cooking. As the burgers cook, they naturally puff up; the indentation compensates for this, ensuring uniform thickness throughout. Keep the patties about one inch thick for a balance of doneness—ensuring a good sear outside while remaining juicy inside. Remember, a good burger is about those delightful textures!

Grilling Techniques

When grilling your burgers, preheat to medium-high—about 375°F to 400°F. This temperature range allows for a nice sear, creating those appealing grill marks and locking in moisture. Place the patties on the grill without crowding, allowing steam to escape and ensuring proper searing. It's best to resist the urge to flip too frequently; this can prevent that beautiful crust from forming. Ideally, let each side cook for 5-6 minutes without disturbance.

To check doneness without cutting into the patty, use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches at least 160°F for medium. For extra safety or a firmer texture, you could aim for 165°F. If you prefer a bit of a char, let your burgers cook for an additional minute on each side, but watch closely to avoid burning. With bacon mixed in, you’ll enjoy unique flavor notes as it crisps up against the beef.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to create your savory beef and bacon burgers.

Ingredients

1 pound ground beef (80/20)
4 strips of bacon, chopped
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
Salt and pepper to taste
4 hamburger buns
Lettuce, tomato, onion, and cheese for toppings

Now that you have all the ingredients, you're ready to start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these steps to prepare delicious savory beef and bacon burgers.

Prepare the Burger Mixture

In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, chopped bacon, garlic powder, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until just combined; be careful not to overwork the meat.

Form the Patties

Divide the mixture into four equal portions and shape them into patties. Make a slight indentation in the center of each patty to help them cook evenly.

Grill the Burgers

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Place the patties on the grill and cook for approximately 5-6 minutes per side or until they reach your desired level of doneness.

Assemble the Burgers

Once cooked, remove the burgers from the grill and let them rest for a minute. Toast the buns lightly on the grill, then pile on your favorite toppings before placing the burger patty on the bun.

Enjoy your savory beef and bacon burgers with a side of fries or a fresh salad!

Pro Tips

For an extra touch, consider topping the burgers with crispy fried onions or a homemade BBQ sauce for a sweet twist.

Topping Suggestions

Toppings can transform your savory burger into a personalized delight. Classic choices such as crisp lettuce, juicy tomato slices, and sharp cheddar cheese provide a balance of freshness and creaminess. For a kick, consider adding jalapeños or a spicy aioli. If you're feeling adventurous, try a fried egg as a topping—this can add richness and an additional layer of flavor that pairs beautifully with the burger and bacon.

Another great twist is to incorporate gourmet elements. For instance, swap traditional mayonnaise for garlic-infused aioli, or try adding caramelized onions for sweetness. You can also consider fresh herbs like arugula or basil for an extra aromatic component. No matter your preferences, ensure your toppings complement the smoky flavors of the bacon without overwhelming the distinctiveness of the beef.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

Preparing your burger mixture ahead of time can save you effort on busy days. You can mix the ground beef, bacon, and seasonings up to a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just remember to form the patties just before grilling so they maintain their shape and texture. Not only does this process streamline your cooking time, but the flavors also have a chance to meld beautifully.

If you have leftover cooked burgers, place them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, a quick stint in the microwave can suffice, but for better results, consider reheating on the grill or stovetop. This method warms through while preserving that desirable grilled texture. Remember, burgers can also be frozen; wrap each cooked patty in foil and store in a freezer-safe bag for up to three months.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use turkey instead of beef?

Yes, you can replace the beef with ground turkey; however, you might want to add extra fat to keep the burgers juicy.

→ How do I know when the burgers are done cooking?

Use a meat thermometer to ensure that the internal temperature reaches 160°F for ground beef.

→ Can I prepare the burger mixture ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the mixture a few hours in advance and store it in the refrigerator until you're ready to grill.

→ What can I serve with these burgers?

These burgers pair well with fries, coleslaw, or a refreshing salad for a complete meal.