Chili’s's Classic Bacon Burger Copycat Recipe

Last Updated Dec 22, 2024 By I Titov

Chili’s's Classic Bacon Burger Copycat Recipe

Photo: Classic Bacon Burger

The Classic Bacon Burger from Chili's features a juicy, perfectly grilled beef patty topped with crispy smoked bacon, melted cheddar cheese, fresh lettuce, ripe tomatoes, red onions, and tangy pickles, all layered inside a toasted sesame seed bun for a satisfying combination of savory and smoky flavors with a hearty, juicy bite.

Equipments

  • Grill
  • Grill spatula
  • Tongs
  • Frying pan or skillet
  • Baking sheet (optional, for bacon)
  • Cheese slicer or knife
  • Cutting board
  • Chef’s knife
  • Lettuce spinner or salad dryer (optional)
  • Tomato slicer or knife
  • Onion slicer or knife
  • Pickle slicer or knife
  • Basting brush (optional, for toasting buns)
  • Toasting rack, grill, or skillet for buns
  • Plate or tray for assembling
  • Food thermometer (optional)
  • Serving plates

Ingredients

  • 1 lb (450g) ground beef (80/20 blend)
  • Salt
  • Black pepper
  • 8 slices smoked bacon
  • 4 slices cheddar cheese
  • 4 sesame seed burger buns
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (for toasting buns)
  • 4 leaves fresh lettuce
  • 1 large ripe tomato
  • 1 small red onion
  • 8 dill pickle slices

Using an 80/20 blend of ground beef ensures your patty remains juicy and flavorful, while smoking bacon adds a rich, savory crunch. Fresh produce like crisp lettuce, ripe tomatoes, and red onions provide essential moisture and texture balance, enhancing your burger experience. Toasting the sesame seed buns with unsalted butter not only improves flavor but also prevents sogginess. You should slice the cheese evenly to achieve perfect melting on the patty. The Classic Bacon Burger from Chili's copycat menu captures the same satisfying combination of smoky bacon, melted cheddar, and fresh toppings stacked inside a toasted bun for an authentic taste.

Instructions

  • Instructions:
  • Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
  • Form ground beef into 4 equal patties.
  • Season patties with salt and black pepper on both sides.
  • Grill bacon in a frying pan, skillet, or on a baking sheet at 400°F (204°C) until crispy; drain on paper towels.
  • Slice cheddar cheese, tomato, onion, and pickles if not pre-sliced.
  • Separate and wash lettuce leaves; dry with spinner.
  • Grill beef patties for 3–4 minutes per side for medium, or to desired doneness.
  • Place cheddar cheese slices on patties during last minute of grilling; let melt.
  • Split burger buns; brush insides lightly with butter.
  • Toast buns on grill, skillet, or toaster until golden and crisp.
  • Assemble burger: bottom bun, lettuce, tomato slices, grilled beef patty with melted cheese, bacon slices, red onion rings, pickle slices.
  • Top with upper half of bun.
  • Serve immediately on plates.

Substitution

The Classic Bacon Burger from Chili's copycat menu combines a juicy beef patty with crispy smoked bacon, melted cheddar, and fresh vegetable toppings inside a toasted sesame seed bun for an iconic savory experience. If you don't have smoked bacon, pancetta, turkey bacon, or even a high-quality ham can be great alternatives without losing the smoky flavor profile. Ground beef with an 80/20 fat ratio is best for juiciness, but you can substitute with ground turkey or chicken if you prefer a leaner option; just adjust cooking time accordingly. Buttering and toasting the buns on a grill or skillet enhances flavor and texture, and you can use margarine or olive oil as a substitute if unsalted butter is unavailable. Keep your knife set and slicing tools handy to evenly cut fresh lettuce, tomato, onion, and pickles, ensuring a balanced bite with every burger you assemble.

Tips

Ensure your ground beef patties are evenly shaped and avoid overhandling to keep them juicy and tender during grilling. Use a food thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 160degF (71degC) for safe consumption. When grilling the bacon, drain excess grease on paper towels to maintain crispiness and prevent soggy burgers. Lightly buttering the buns before toasting enhances flavor and texture, giving your Classic Bacon Burger that perfect golden crust.

Nutritions

The Classic Bacon Burger from Chili's provides a rich source of protein from the 80/20 ground beef blend and smoked bacon, delivering approximately 28 grams of protein per serving. Cheddar cheese adds calcium and vitamin D, while fresh lettuce, tomatoes, and onions contribute fiber, vitamins A and C, and antioxidants. The sesame seed bun supplies carbohydrates and dietary fiber, supporting energy needs during your meal. Your burger offers a balanced intake of macronutrients, but be mindful of sodium content from bacon and pickles to maintain heart health.

Storage

Store leftover burger patties and bacon separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and prevent flavor mixing. Wrap the sliced vegetables tightly in plastic wrap or place them in sealed containers to retain crispness and moisture. Keep buns in a bread bag at room temperature for up to 2 days, or freeze them wrapped in foil for longer storage.

Variation or Alternatives

You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner protein option while maintaining juiciness by adding a tablespoon of olive oil to the meat mixture. Instead of smoked bacon, try crispy prosciutto or turkey bacon for a different smoky flavor. For a cooking variation, sear patties in a hot cast iron skillet to develop a caramelized crust before finishing them on the grill. Toasting buns with garlic butter or brushing them with a smoky barbecue sauce enhances the flavor profile and adds a rich, aromatic touch.

Allergies

The Classic Bacon Burger contains common allergens such as sesame seeds in the buns, cheddar cheese made from milk, and smoked bacon which may trigger protein allergies. Ground beef could also cause reactions in individuals with red meat allergies, while onions and pickles may affect those sensitive to certain food preservatives or additives. Your allergic response can vary greatly, so it's essential to confirm all ingredients and consult with a healthcare professional if you have concerns.

Why this recipe?

Chili's Classic Bacon Burger menu is favored for its juicy, perfectly seasoned beef patty topped with crispy bacon, melted cheese, fresh lettuce, and ripe tomatoes, all nestled in a soft, toasted bun. The combination of smoky bacon and savory burger flavors creates a satisfying taste experience that keeps customers coming back. Trying to make a copycat version allows you to recreate this iconic flavor at home, customizing ingredients to your preference while enjoying restaurant-quality satisfaction. Your homemade Classic Bacon Burger can deliver the same crave-worthy taste with added control over freshness and portion size.



About the author.
I Titov is a passionate home cook and dedicated food enthusiast, known for experimenting with diverse cuisines and copycat recipes in his kitchen.

Disclaimer.
The information provided in this document is for general informational purposes only and is not guaranteed to be complete. While this website strive to ensure the accuracy of the content, we cannot guarantee that the details mentioned are up-to-date or applicable to all scenarios.

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