The Little Bacon Burger from Five Guys features a juicy, freshly grilled beef patty topped with crispy, smoky bacon, melted American cheese, and fresh lettuce, tomato, and pickles, all sandwiched in a soft, toasted bun, delivering a satisfying blend of savory flavors and hearty textures.
Equipments
- Grill or flat top griddle
- Spatula
- Tongs
- Cheese slicer or pre-sliced cheese
- Knife
- Cutting board
- Bun toaster or standard toaster/grill
- Food prep gloves
- Bacon cooker or griddle
- Squeeze bottles (for condiments)
- Lettuce/tomato/pickle slicer or sharp knife
- Serving tray or plate
- Assembly table/counter
Ingredients
- 1/4 lb (113g) ground beef patty
- 2 slices bacon
- 1 slice American cheese
- 1 hamburger bun
- Lettuce leaves
- Tomato slices
- Pickle slices
Ensure you use freshly ground beef for the patty to maintain juiciness and a rich flavor similar to Five Guys' quality standards. Choose thick-cut, smoky bacon to achieve the crispy texture that defines the Little Bacon Burger. Opt for real American cheese slices, as processed cheese varieties can alter the authentic taste. Use fresh, crisp lettuce and vine-ripened tomato slices to enhance the burger's overall freshness and crunch. Your homemade Little Bacon Burger from Five Guys copycat menu will deliver a satisfying mix of savory flavors and hearty textures when these ingredient qualities are prioritized.
Instructions
- Wash hands and put on food prep gloves.
- Preheat grill or flat top griddle to medium-high heat.
- Cook bacon on the griddle or bacon cooker until crispy; set aside.
- Shape ground beef into a 1/4 lb patty.
- Place beef patty on the hot griddle and press gently with spatula.
- Cook patty for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until desired doneness.
- During the last minute of cooking, place American cheese slice on patty to melt.
- Toast hamburger bun on the griddle or bun toaster until golden brown.
- Wash and slice lettuce, tomato, and pickles as needed.
- Place bottom half of the toasted bun on the assembly counter.
- Layer lettuce, tomato, and pickles onto bun base.
- Place cooked burger patty with melted cheese on top of veggies.
- Add crispy bacon slices on top of cheeseburger patty.
- Cover with the top half of the toasted bun.
- Transfer assembled burger to serving tray or plate.
- Serve immediately.
Substitution
The Little Bacon Burger from Five Guys copycat menu replicates the signature combination of juicy beef, crispy bacon, and melted American cheese with fresh veggies and a soft toasted bun. If you can't find American cheese, cheddar or processed cheese slices make an excellent substitute without compromising flavor. When fresh lettuce, tomato, or pickles are unavailable, jarred pickles or pre-packaged salad mixes can save you time and still add texture. You can use a regular frying pan when a grill or flat top griddle is not accessible, though cooking times may vary slightly to achieve the desired sear. To maintain freshness during assembly, keep your sliced vegetables and condiments chilled until ready to serve, ensuring your burger stays flavorful and crisp.
Tips
Ensure the grill or griddle is properly preheated to medium-high heat before cooking the beef patty to achieve a perfect sear and juicy texture. Avoid pressing the patty too hard with the spatula, as this can squeeze out the natural juices and dry out your burger. Use a sharp knife or slicer for clean-cut lettuce, tomato, and pickles to maintain the fresh crunch and even layering. You should toast the bun just long enough to get a golden crust without burning, ensuring it holds up well against the savory, juicy ingredients.
Nutritions
The Little Bacon Burger provides a rich source of protein from the 1/4 lb beef patty and two slices of crispy bacon, supporting muscle repair and growth. The American cheese adds calcium and fat, contributing to bone health and satiety. Fresh lettuce, tomato, and pickles offer essential vitamins, minerals, and dietary fiber to support digestion. When enjoying your burger, be mindful of sodium and calorie intake to maintain a balanced diet.
Storage
To maintain the best flavor and texture of Your Little Bacon Burger, wrap it tightly in foil or wax paper and store in an airtight container in the refrigerator within two hours of preparation. Consume within 1-2 days to ensure freshness, reheating gently on a grill or in a microwave to prevent the bun from becoming soggy. Avoid freezing, as it can negatively affect the juicy patty and crispy bacon quality.
Variation or Alternatives
Swap American cheese for sharp cheddar or pepper jack to add a bolder flavor to your Little Bacon Burger. Try turkey bacon or maple-glazed bacon as an alternative to smoky bacon for a lighter or sweeter taste. Instead of grilling, sear the beef patty in a cast-iron skillet to develop a richer crust and juicier inside. You can also toast the bun with garlic butter on a griddle to enhance the aroma and taste of the sandwich.
Allergies
The Little Bacon Burger contains common allergens such as dairy from American cheese and gluten from the hamburger bun, which may trigger reactions in people with lactose intolerance or celiac disease. The bacon and beef patty pose a risk for individuals with meat allergies or sensitivities to preservatives like nitrates. You should always check with Five Guys regarding cross-contamination if you have severe food allergies.
Why this recipe?
Five Guys' Little Bacon Burger menu is renowned for its juicy, hand-formed beef patty complemented by crispy, smoky bacon and fresh toppings, delivering a satisfying flavor profile. You will enjoy the customizable options that allow each burger to be tailored to your taste, enhancing its appeal. The use of fresh, high-quality ingredients and the brand's cooking technique ensure a consistently delicious experience. Trying to make a copycat version at home offers a unique way to replicate that indulgent taste while controlling ingredients and customization.