The Vermonter Burger from Friendly's features a juicy beef patty topped with melted cheddar cheese, crispy bacon, and a fried egg, all layered on a toasted bun for a hearty and flavorful classic American burger experience.
Equipments
- Grill or griddle
- Spatula
- Frying pan or skillet
- Tongs
- Cheese slicer or knife
- Egg ring (optional)
- Toaster or grill for buns
- Plate
- Knife
- Cutting board
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- Salt
- Black pepper
- 4 slices cheddar cheese
- 4 slices bacon
- 4 large eggs
- 4 hamburger buns
- Butter (for toasting buns)
Using quality ground beef with a fat content around 80/20 ensures a juicy and flavorful Vermonter Burger. Cheddar cheese slices should be thick enough to melt evenly over the patty without overpowering other flavors. Crisp bacon provides a smoky counterpoint, so using fresh slices cooked until golden is essential for texture and taste. When cooking eggs, consider using an egg ring for uniform size to fit perfectly on your burger. Toasting the hamburger buns with butter enhances flavor and adds a satisfying crunch to each bite, making your copycat Vermonter Burger from Friendly's menu truly authentic.
Instructions
- Instructions:
- Preheat grill or griddle to medium-high heat.
- Shape ground beef into 4 equal patties.
- Season patties on both sides with salt and black pepper.
- Cook bacon in frying pan or skillet over medium heat until crispy. Set aside on paper towel.
- Grill or griddle burger patties for about 3–4 minutes per side, or until desired doneness.
- Place a slice of cheddar cheese on each patty in the last minute of grilling. Cover to melt cheese.
- While patties cook, melt butter in a pan or on the grill. Toast buns until golden brown.
- Remove buns and cheese-topped patties from heat.
- Fry eggs in skillet (using egg ring if desired) until whites are set but yolks are still runny, about 2–3 minutes.
- Assemble burgers: Place lettuce (optional), patty with melted cheese, crispy bacon, and fried egg on the bottom bun.
- Top with the upper bun, serve immediately.
Substitution
The Vermonter Burger from Friendly's copycat menu showcases a juicy beef patty crowned with melted cheddar cheese, crispy bacon, and a perfectly fried egg, all nestled in a toasted bun for a rich and satisfying meal. If you can't find cheddar cheese, American or Colby cheese are excellent substitutes that melt well and complement the flavors. Should bacon be unavailable, smoked turkey bacon or even crispy pancetta can provide a similar savory crunch. When frying the egg, an egg ring helps achieve a uniform shape that fits neatly on the burger, but you can cook freeform if needed. Your cooking process will be smoother if you use a grill or griddle for the patties and a separate frying pan for the eggs and bacon to maintain proper temperature control.
Tips
Make sure to shape your beef patties evenly and avoid pressing them too hard during cooking to retain juiciness. Keep an eye on the bacon as it cooks; remove it once crispy to prevent burning. Toast buns with butter for extra flavor and a delightful crunch. When frying eggs, use an egg ring to keep them neat, and cook until whites are fully set but yolks remain runny for that perfect burger topping.
Nutritions
The Vermonter Burger provides a substantial source of protein from the beef patty, cheddar cheese, bacon, and fried egg, supporting muscle maintenance and energy. Your meal also delivers significant amounts of saturated fats and cholesterol, primarily from the cheese, bacon, and egg yolk, so balance is key if you're monitoring heart health. Each burger offers essential vitamins and minerals such as vitamin B12, iron, and calcium, contributing to overall nutrient intake. Pairing this burger with a side of vegetables or a salad can enhance fiber content and promote a more balanced meal.
Storage
Store any leftover cooked Vermonter Burger components, such as patties, bacon, and fried eggs, in airtight containers in the refrigerator to maintain freshness for up to 3 days. Keep buns separate in a sealed bag or container at room temperature to prevent sogginess and preserve texture. When reheating, warm the patties and bacon on a grill or skillet, while toasting buns briefly to restore their original taste and crunch for Your best eating experience.
Variation or Alternatives
You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner burger option while maintaining juiciness by adding finely chopped onions or mushrooms. Swap cheddar cheese with Swiss or pepper jack for a different flavor profile. Instead of frying the egg, try poaching it for a softer yolk that enhances the burger's richness. Toast the buns with garlic butter to add an aromatic twist that complements the savory toppings.
Allergies
The Vermonter Burger contains common allergens such as dairy from cheddar cheese and butter, and eggs used as a fried topping. Bacon may pose risks for those with pork allergies or dietary restrictions, while the hamburger bun often contains gluten, which could affect individuals with celiac disease or gluten intolerance. If you have specific allergies, it's important to verify all ingredients to ensure your safety.
Why this recipe?
The Vermonter Burger from Friendly's restaurant is loved for its unique combination of a juicy beef patty topped with melted cheddar cheese, crispy bacon, and a perfectly fried egg, all served on a toasted bun. This distinct layering of flavors and textures sets it apart from typical burgers, delivering a satisfying and memorable taste experience. Making a copycat version allows you to customize the quality of ingredients and recreate the same delicious balance at home. Your homemade Vermonter Burger can capture the restaurant's signature taste while offering freshness and control over every element.