The Classic Bacon Cheeseburger from Applebee's features a juicy beef patty topped with melted cheddar cheese, crispy bacon strips, fresh lettuce, ripe tomatoes, and tangy pickles, all nestled in a toasted sesame seed bun for a mouthwatering combination of savory and crunchy flavors.
Equipments
- Grill or griddle
- Spatula
- Chef's knife
- Cutting board
- Frying pan or skillet
- Tongs
- Cheese slicer (optional)
- Plate
- Bun toaster or toaster oven (optional)
- Food thermometer (optional)
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 4 slices cheddar cheese
- 4 slices bacon
- 4 sesame seed hamburger buns
- 1 cup shredded lettuce
- 2 ripe tomatoes
- 1/2 cup sliced pickles
Ensure you use fresh, high-quality ground beef with at least 80% lean content to achieve a juicy patty similar to the Classic Bacon Cheeseburger from Applebee's. Select sharp cheddar cheese slices to melt evenly over the meat, enhancing the rich flavor profile. Crisp bacon strips should be cooked separately to maintain their crunch without adding excess grease to your burger. Use fresh, crisp lettuce, ripe tomatoes, and tangy pickles to balance the savory ingredients and add a refreshing contrast. For the best results, you can replicate the Classic Bacon Cheeseburger from Applebee's copycat menu by carefully layering each ingredient on a toasted sesame seed bun.
Instructions
- Instructions:
- Preheat grill or griddle to medium-high heat.
- Shape ground beef into 4 equal patties.
- Season patties with salt and pepper (optional).
- Grill patties for 3-4 minutes per side for medium doneness.
- Place cheddar cheese slices on patties during the last minute of grilling; allow to melt.
- Cook bacon strips in frying pan or skillet until crispy; drain on paper towels.
- Slice tomatoes.
- Toast buns on grill, bun toaster, or toaster oven until golden brown.
- Assemble burgers: bottom bun, lettuce, tomato slices, beef patty with melted cheese, bacon strips, pickles.
- Top with top bun.
- Serve immediately.
Substitution
The Classic Bacon Cheeseburger from Applebee's copycat menu can easily be customized if you have dietary restrictions or ingredient shortages. You can substitute ground turkey or plant-based patties for beef to reduce fat content or accommodate preferences. If cheddar cheese is unavailable, Swiss, American, or pepper jack cheeses work well without compromising flavor. Use turkey bacon or omit it altogether for a lighter version, and if fresh tomatoes or lettuce aren't at hand, pickled or grilled vegetables can add a tasty twist. Your cooking process remains smooth with standard kitchen tools like a grill, spatula, and frying pan, though a food thermometer helps ensure the patty is cooked perfectly every time.
Tips
Make sure to handle raw beef with clean hands and utensils to avoid cross-contamination. Use a food thermometer to check that the internal temperature of each patty reaches 160degF (71degC) for safe consumption. When cooking bacon, drain excess grease on paper towels to keep it crispy and prevent sogginess. Toasting the buns just before assembling helps maintain their texture and prevents them from becoming soggy when layered with juicy ingredients.
Nutritions
The Classic Bacon Cheeseburger from Applebee's provides a significant source of protein from its 1 lb of ground beef, supporting muscle maintenance and energy. Cheddar cheese and bacon add saturated fats and sodium, which should be consumed in moderation to maintain heart health. Fresh lettuce, tomatoes, and pickles contribute fiber, vitamins A and C, and antioxidants, enhancing your overall nutrient intake. Your meal's calorie content can be balanced by adjusting portion sizes or pairing the burger with a side of vegetables or salad.
Storage
Store leftover bacon cheeseburger components separately to maintain freshness and prevent sogginess. Wrap patties and cooked bacon tightly in aluminum foil or plastic wrap and refrigerate within two hours of cooking, using within 3-4 days. Keep buns, lettuce, tomato slices, and pickles in airtight containers or resealable bags to preserve texture, and reheat patties thoroughly before assembling your burger again.
Variation or Alternatives
You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option while maintaining the juicy texture. Swap cheddar cheese with pepper jack or Swiss cheese to introduce a different flavor profile that complements the smoky bacon. Instead of grilling, cook the patties in a skillet with a bit of butter for a crispy crust and richer taste. For a gluten-free alternative, replace sesame seed buns with lettuce wraps or gluten-free buns to suit dietary needs.
Allergies
The Classic Bacon Cheeseburger from Applebee's contains common allergens such as sesame seeds in the buns and dairy in the cheddar cheese. The presence of beef and bacon may also trigger sensitivities in individuals with meat allergies. You should inform the restaurant staff about any allergies you have to avoid cross-contamination or unintended exposure.
Why this recipe?
The Classic Bacon Cheeseburger from Applebee's restaurant offers a perfectly balanced combination of savory bacon, melted cheese, and a juicy beef patty, creating a satisfying flavor profile. Its fresh toppings and toasted bun provide a delicious texture contrast that enhances every bite. You can recreate this beloved menu item at home, saving money while customizing ingredients to suit your taste preferences. Making a copycat version allows you to enjoy the iconic Applebee's experience anytime without waiting or dining out.