Baconzilla! from Checkers features a juicy beef patty topped with crispy smoked bacon, melted cheddar cheese, fresh lettuce, ripe tomatoes, and tangy pickles, all stacked inside a soft toasted bun for a hearty and flavorful burger experience.
Equipments
- Grill or Griddle
- Spatula
- Tongs
- Knife
- Cutting Board
- Cheese Slicer (optional)
- Toaster or Oven (for buns)
- Plate or Tray
- Assembly Table
- Food-safe Gloves
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 8 slices smoked bacon
- 4 slices cheddar cheese
- 4 hamburger buns
- 1 cup shredded lettuce
- 2 medium tomatoes
- 8 dill pickle chips
When preparing your Baconzilla! burger, choose high-quality ground beef with a fat content of around 20% to ensure juiciness and flavor. Opt for smoked bacon slices that crisp well without becoming too brittle during cooking, balancing smokiness and texture. Use fresh cheddar cheese slices that melt evenly for a creamy layer, and select ripe tomatoes for their sweetness and juiciness to complement the savory elements. Wash and shred lettuce just before assembly to maintain crispness, and ensure pickle chips are evenly sliced for consistent tangy bites in every mouthful. You can recreate the bold flavors of the Baconzilla! from Checkers at home by carefully layering these fresh ingredients on toasted buns for an authentic copycat experience.
Instructions
- Instructions:
- Preheat grill or griddle to medium-high heat.
- Shape ground beef into 4 equal patties.
- Season patties with salt and pepper as desired.
- Place patties on grill and cook for 3–4 minutes per side (or until desired doneness).
- While patties cook, place bacon slices on grill or griddle.
- Cook bacon until crispy, turning as needed.
- Slice tomatoes into round slices.
- Shred lettuce, if not pre-shredded.
- Slice buns and toast them on toaster or oven until lightly browned.
- Place a slice of cheddar cheese on each patty during last minute of cooking; allow cheese to melt.
- Remove cooked patties and bacon from grill.
- Lay bottom bun on assembly table or plate.
- Add a layer of shredded lettuce on bottom bun.
- Place tomato slices atop lettuce.
- Add 2 dill pickle chips on tomatoes.
- Place cheesy beef patty on pickles.
- Add 2 slices of crispy bacon over beef patty.
- Cover with top bun.
- Repeat assembly for remaining burgers.
- Serve immediately.
Substitution
Baconzilla! from Checkers copycat menu lets you enjoy a satisfying combination of smoky bacon, juicy beef patty, and melted cheddar cheese at home. If you don't have cheddar cheese on hand, sharp American or pepper jack cheese are excellent substitutes that still deliver rich flavor. Using turkey bacon or plant-based bacon can provide a lighter or vegetarian-friendly alternative without sacrificing the smoky taste. When fresh dill pickles are unavailable, sweet pickles or bread-and-butter slices can keep the tangy contrast in the burger. You can also toast the buns in a skillet if a toaster or oven is not accessible, ensuring a warm and crisp texture for your burger assembly.
Tips
Make sure the grill or griddle is properly preheated to medium-high to cook the patties evenly and achieve a juicy interior. Use a spatula to flip patties gently, avoiding pressing down to retain moisture and prevent dryness. Toast the buns just until lightly browned to add texture without causing them to become tough. Assemble your Baconzilla! burger promptly after cooking to enjoy the melty cheese and warm ingredients at their best.
Nutritions
The Baconzilla! burger offers a rich source of protein from the 1 lb ground beef and 8 slices of smoked bacon, supporting muscle repair and growth. Your meal will also provide calcium and phosphorus from the melted cheddar cheese, which is essential for bone health. Fresh lettuce, ripe tomatoes, and pickles contribute dietary fiber, vitamins A, C, and K, as well as antioxidants that support immune function and digestion. Be mindful of the saturated fat and sodium content, which are elevated due to bacon and cheese, making moderation important for heart health.
Storage
Store leftover Baconzilla! burgers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days to maintain freshness and prevent sogginess. Separate patties, bacon, buns, and fresh vegetables if possible to avoid moisture buildup and preserve texture. When reheating, use a toaster oven or skillet to warm ingredients evenly without compromising the crispiness of the bacon and toasted buns.
Variation or Alternatives
You can switch up the beef patty by using ground turkey or chicken for a leaner alternative while maintaining bold flavors. Substitute cheddar cheese with pepper jack or Swiss cheese to add a spicy kick or a creamy touch. Instead of grilling, pan-sear the patties for a caramelized crust, and consider using a brioche bun for a sweeter, buttery flavor that complements the savory toppings.
Allergies
The Baconzilla! burger contains common allergens such as dairy from the cheddar cheese and gluten from the hamburger buns. Individuals with sensitivities to pork should avoid this dish due to the smoked bacon, while those allergic to tomatoes or pickles may also experience adverse reactions. Your safety is important, so always check ingredient labels and consult with a healthcare professional if you have specific food allergies.
Why this recipe?
Baconzilla! from Checkers restaurant is loved for its towering layers of crispy bacon paired with flame-grilled beef patties, creating a bold and savory flavor profile. The unique combination of smoky bacon, melted cheese, and freshly toasted buns delivers a satisfying, indulgent experience that stands out among fast-food offerings. Making a copycat version allows you to customize ingredients to your taste and enjoy the indulgence at home without the fast-food price. Your homemade Baconzilla! can capture the essence of this iconic burger while adding a personal twist for ultimate satisfaction.