Smoky BBQ Bacon Buford from Checkers/Rally's features a juicy beef patty topped with smoky barbecue sauce, crispy bacon strips, melted cheddar cheese, fresh lettuce, and ripe tomatoes, all nestled in a soft toasted bun for a bold and satisfying flavor experience.
Equipments
- Grill or griddle
- Tongs
- Spatula
- Sauce brush
- Cheese slicer
- Knife
- Cutting board
- Bacon cooker or skillet
- Toaster or bun warmer
- Prep bowls
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 1 tablespoon smoky barbecue sauce
- 4 slices bacon
- 4 slices cheddar cheese
- 4 leaves lettuce
- 1 large tomato
- 4 hamburger buns
Use fresh, high-quality ground beef for a juicy patty that holds together well during grilling. Select thick-cut bacon for extra crispiness, as thinner slices may become too brittle or overcook quickly. Choose ripe, firm tomatoes and crisp lettuce leaves to add fresh contrast to the smoky and savory flavors. Toast the hamburger buns lightly to prevent sogginess from the barbecue sauce and enhance overall texture. You can recreate the bold, smoky flavor of the Smoky BBQ Bacon Buford from Checkers/Rally's copycat menu by carefully balancing smoky barbecue sauce, crispy bacon, and melted cheddar cheese.
Instructions
- Preheat grill or griddle.
- Shape ground beef into 4 equal patties.
- Season patties with salt and pepper (optional).
- Cook bacon in bacon cooker or skillet until crispy; drain on paper towels.
- Grill beef patties to desired doneness, flipping with spatula.
- Place cheddar cheese slices on patties during the last minute of grilling; cover to melt.
- Slice tomato into rounds on cutting board using knife.
- Separate and wash lettuce leaves.
- Warm or toast hamburger buns in toaster or bun warmer.
- Brush bottom bun with smoky barbecue sauce.
- Place cheese-topped beef patty on bottom bun.
- Add 1 slice bacon (broken in half if needed) on top of each patty.
- Layer lettuce leaf and tomato slice over bacon.
- Cover with top bun.
- Serve immediately.
Substitution
The Smoky BBQ Bacon Buford copycat recipe replicates the signature bold flavors by combining a juicy beef patty with smoky barbecue sauce, crispy bacon, melted cheddar cheese, fresh lettuce, and ripe tomatoes. If you don't have a grill or griddle, a cast iron skillet can be used to sear the patties for a similar charred taste. Bacon can be cooked in a microwave or oven if a skillet or bacon cooker is unavailable, ensuring crispiness without sacrificing texture. For a twist, substitute cheddar cheese with a sharp or smoked variety to enhance the smoky profile of your burger. You can warm the buns in a toaster or oven to achieve the soft, toasted finish that holds all ingredients together perfectly.
Tips
Make sure to preheat your grill or griddle thoroughly to ensure even cooking of the beef patties. Use a spatula to flip the patties only once for a juicy texture and avoid pressing down to retain moisture. When adding cheddar cheese, cover the patties briefly to help the cheese melt evenly without drying out the meat. Remember to brush the bottom bun with smoky barbecue sauce to enhance every bite and hold your sandwich components together firmly.
Nutritions
The Smoky BBQ Bacon Buford from Checkers/Rally's provides a rich source of protein from the beef patty and bacon, essential for muscle repair and energy. Cheddar cheese adds calcium and healthy fats while the fresh lettuce and tomato contribute vitamins A and C, along with dietary fiber that supports digestion. The smoky barbecue sauce supplies antioxidants from spices, though it may also contain added sugars. Your meal's calorie count is higher due to the combination of fatty bacon, cheese, and beef, so enjoy it as an occasional indulgence within a balanced diet.
Storage
To keep your Smoky BBQ Bacon Buford fresh, wrap each fully assembled sandwich tightly in aluminum foil or plastic wrap and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Consume within 1 to 2 days for the best taste and texture, as the fresh lettuce and tomato may wilt over time. Reheat gently in an oven or toaster oven to maintain the melted cheese and crispy bacon without making the bun soggy.
Variation or Alternatives
You can swap the cheddar cheese for pepper jack to add a spicy kick or use smoked gouda to enhance the smoky flavor profile. For a healthier twist, substitute bacon with turkey bacon or grill portobello mushroom slices instead of beef patties. Try mixing finely chopped onions and garlic into the ground beef for extra savory depth before grilling. Consider grilling the tomato slices briefly to add a caramelized sweetness that complements the smoky barbecue sauce.
Allergies
The Smoky BBQ Bacon Buford contains common allergens such as dairy from the cheddar cheese and gluten from the hamburger buns. Your risk of allergic reaction may increase due to the presence of bacon, which could trigger sensitivities or cross-reactivity for those allergic to pork. Individuals with meat, dairy, or gluten allergies should consider these ingredients carefully before consumption.
Why this recipe?
Smoky BBQ Bacon Buford from Checkers/Rally's is popular for its rich combination of smoky barbecue sauce, crispy bacon, and savory beef patty layered on a toasted bun. The bold flavors and satisfying textures create a crave-worthy experience that many fans seek. Making a copycat version at home allows you to customize ingredients to your taste while enjoying the indulgent taste and value without the wait. Your homemade Smoky BBQ Bacon Buford can rival the restaurant's quality, providing a convenient and delicious alternative.