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Classic Cheddar Bacon Burger with House Sauce inspired by Brigham's
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Inspired by Brigham's

Classic Cheddar Bacon Burger with House Sauce

Main Course
This hearty burger features a juicy beef patty topped with melted cheddar, crispy bacon, and fresh vegetables. The combination of a perfectly cooked patty with the savory-sweet house sauce creates a satisfying main course that represents traditional American diner cuisine at its finest.
Prep Time 15 mins
Cook Time 15 mins
Inactive Time 10 mins
Total Time 40 mins
Servings 4

Ingredients

  • 1 lb Ground beef (80/20 lean-to-fat ratio)
  • 1 tsp Kosher salt (For seasoning patties)
  • 1/2 tsp Black pepper (Freshly ground)
  • 1/2 tsp Garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp Onion powder
  • 6 slices Bacon strips (Thick-cut preferred)
  • 4 slices Sharp cheddar cheese (Or other melting cheese of choice)
  • 4 whole Burger buns (Brioche or sesame seed)
  • 1/2 medium Red onion (Thinly sliced)
  • 1 medium Tomato (Sliced into rounds)
  • 4 leaves Lettuce (Butter or iceberg)
  • 1/4 cup Mayonnaise (For house sauce)
  • 2 tbsp Ketchup (For house sauce)
  • 1 tbsp Sweet pickle relish (For house sauce)
  • 1 tsp Dijon mustard (For house sauce)
  • 1/2 tsp Worcestershire sauce (For house sauce)
  • 2 large Russet potatoes (For french fries)
  • 4 cups Vegetable oil (For frying potatoes)
  • 2 tbsp Butter (For toasting buns)

Tools You'll Need

  • Cast iron skillet or heavy-bottomed pan
  • Large pot for frying
  • Deep-fry thermometer
  • Slotted spoon
  • Paper towels
  • Mixing bowls
  • Sharp knife
  • Cutting board
  • Meat thermometer (optional)

Chef's Tip

For the juiciest burgers, handle the meat as little as possible when forming patties and make a slight indentation in the center with your thumb. This prevents the burgers from puffing up in the middle during cooking, ensuring even thickness.

Instructions

  1. Make the house sauce: In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, ketchup, relish, Dijon mustard, and Worcestershire sauce. Mix well, cover and refrigerate until ready to use.
  2. Prepare the french fries: Peel potatoes and cut into 1/4-inch sticks. Soak in cold water for 30 minutes. Drain, rinse, and pat completely dry with paper towels.
  3. Heat oil to 325°F in a large, heavy pot. Working in batches, fry potatoes for 4-5 minutes until softened but not browned. Remove with a slotted spoon to paper towels.
  4. Increase oil temperature to 375°F. Return parboiled fries to oil and cook until golden and crisp, about 3-4 minutes. Drain on fresh paper towels and season immediately with salt.
  5. For the burgers: Gently divide ground beef into 4 equal portions and form into patties about 1/2-inch thick and slightly wider than your buns. Press a slight indent in the center of each. Season both sides with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
  6. Cook bacon in a large skillet over medium heat until crispy, about 6-8 minutes. Transfer to paper towels to drain, leaving bacon fat in pan.
  7. Cook burger patties in the bacon fat over medium-high heat for 4-5 minutes on the first side. Flip and cook 3-4 minutes more for medium doneness, topping with cheddar cheese during the last minute to melt.
  8. While burgers cook, melt butter in another skillet and toast the cut sides of the burger buns until golden.
  9. To assemble: Spread house sauce on both halves of each bun. On bottom bun, layer lettuce, burger with melted cheese, bacon (broken to fit), tomato slice, and red onion. Top with the other bun half.

Plating

Serve each burger on a plate alongside a generous portion of golden french fries. Insert a decorative pick through the top of the burger to hold it together. Optionally, place a small ramekin of extra house sauce on the side for dipping fries.

Storage & Reheating

Cooked burger patties can be refrigerated for up to 3 days. Reheat in a 350°F oven for 10 minutes or until warmed through. The house sauce will keep for up to a week in the refrigerator. French fries do not store well and are best eaten immediately.

About This Recipe

This burger pays homage to the beloved Brigham's Special Burger that was a staple at Brigham's restaurants throughout Massachusetts. The combination of quality beef, melted cheddar, and crispy bacon creates a classic American burger experience. The house sauce adds a signature touch that elevates this burger beyond basic diner fare.

How did it turn out?

We'd love to hear about your experience making this recipe!