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Flavorful Loaded BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Recipe with Smoked Gouda

loaded BBQ bacon cheeseburger - featured image

A quick and easy BBQ bacon cheeseburger featuring smoky gouda cheese, crispy bacon, and tangy BBQ sauce for a rich and satisfying backyard classic.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound (450g) ground beef (80/20 blend)
  • 4 slices (about 4 ounces or 115g) smoked gouda cheese
  • 6 slices thick-cut bacon
  • ½ cup (120ml) BBQ sauce
  • 4 hamburger buns (brioche or potato rolls recommended)
  • ¼ cup (40g) thinly sliced red onion
  • 8 dill pickle slices
  • Leafy lettuce leaves (a few per burger)
  • Salt (1 tsp) and pepper (½ tsp) to season
  • Optional: jalapeño slices or crispy fried onions

Instructions

  1. Prep the Bacon (10-15 minutes): Lay 6 thick-cut bacon slices on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 12-15 minutes, or until crisp. Remove and drain on paper towels. Set aside.
  2. Make the Patties (10 minutes): In a mixing bowl, combine 1 pound (450g) of ground beef with 1 tsp salt and ½ tsp pepper. Gently mix without overworking the meat. Divide into 4 equal portions and shape each into a ¾-inch (2 cm) thick patty, making a slight indentation in the center to prevent puffing up.
  3. Cook the Patties (8-10 minutes): Heat your grill or cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Place patties on the hot surface. Cook for about 4-5 minutes on one side. Flip carefully and cook another 3 minutes. Place one slice of smoked gouda on each patty, cover loosely with foil or a lid for 1-2 minutes to melt the cheese.
  4. Toast the Buns (2-3 minutes): While cheese melts, lightly toast the hamburger buns on the grill or skillet until golden and crisp.
  5. Assemble the Burgers (5 minutes): Spread 1-2 tablespoons of BBQ sauce on the bottom half of each bun. Layer with lettuce, the cheesy patty, 1-2 crispy bacon slices, red onion slices, and pickles. Top with the other bun half.
  6. Final Touch: Press lightly and serve immediately. Add jalapeño slices or crispy fried onions for extra flavor and crunch if desired.

Notes

Make a slight indentation in the center of each patty to prevent puffing up during cooking. Cover the patties briefly after adding smoked gouda to melt cheese evenly using trapped steam. Toast buns lightly to prevent sogginess. Bacon can be baked ahead and kept warm in a low oven. For gluten-free option, use gluten-free buns or lettuce wraps. Dairy-free gouda alternatives can be used for lactose-free diets.

Nutrition

Keywords: BBQ bacon cheeseburger, smoked gouda burger, loaded cheeseburger, backyard BBQ, easy burger recipe, bacon cheeseburger, grilled burger