The Bacon Beast Burger from Hardee's features juicy beef patties stacked with crispy bacon, melted cheese, fresh lettuce, tomatoes, onions, and pickles, all nestled in a soft, toasted bun, delivering a hearty and savory flavor experience.
Equipments
- Grill or griddle
- Spatula
- Tongs
- Cheese slicer or knife
- Bacon press (optional)
- Frying pan or skillet
- Toaster or oven (for buns)
- Cutting board
- Chef's knife
- Vegetable slicer (optional)
- Serving tray or plate
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 8 slices bacon
- 4 slices American cheese
- 4 hamburger buns
- 4 leaves romaine or iceberg lettuce
- 1 large tomato
- 1 small yellow onion
- 8 dill pickle slices
- Salt
- Black pepper
When selecting ground beef for your Bacon Beast Burger, aim for 80/20 lean-to-fat ratio to ensure juicy, flavorful patties. Fresh bacon is crucial for crispiness; thicker slices hold up better on the grill or griddle. Use ripe tomatoes and crisp lettuce leaves to add freshness that balances the savory meat and cheese. Salt and black pepper should be generously applied to enhance the natural flavors of your ingredients. Your Bacon Beast Burger from Hardee's copycat menu will closely replicate the original's hearty, savory taste when these ingredient tips are followed.
Instructions
- Preheat grill or griddle.
- Slice tomato and onion on cutting board.
- Form ground beef into 4 equal patties.
- Season patties with salt and black pepper.
- Cook bacon in skillet or frying pan until crispy; drain on paper towel.
- Grill beef patties to desired doneness.
- Place a cheese slice on each patty; let melt.
- Toast hamburger buns in toaster or oven.
- Arrange lettuce leaves on bottom bun.
- Add grilled beef patty with melted cheese.
- Layer with bacon slices.
- Add tomato slice, onion slice, and pickle slices.
- Top with the other half of the bun.
- Serve hot on tray or plate.
Substitution
The Bacon Beast Burger from Hardee's copycat menu can be easily customized based on your kitchen setup and ingredient availability. You can substitute beef patties with ground turkey or plant-based alternatives for a lighter or vegetarian option without compromising flavor. If you don't have a grill or griddle, cooking the patties and bacon in a frying pan or skillet works just as well. When fresh vegetables like lettuce or tomatoes are unavailable, pickled or grilled alternatives add a unique twist to your burger. Using a toaster or oven to warm the buns ensures a perfectly toasted texture that enhances every bite.
Tips
Always preheat your grill or skillet to ensure even cooking of the beef patties, which helps retain their juiciness. Use a spatula and tongs carefully to flip the patties and handle the bacon without breaking or tearing them. Your bacon should be cooked until crisp but not burnt, and draining on paper towels will remove excess grease, preventing soggy burgers. Toasting the buns adds texture and warmth that complements the fresh vegetables and melted cheese in the Bacon Beast Burger.
Nutritions
The Bacon Beast Burger from Hardee's provides a substantial source of protein with its combination of ground beef and crispy bacon, supporting muscle repair and growth. Each serving includes American cheese, contributing calcium and fat, while fresh vegetables like lettuce, tomato, and onion add dietary fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants. The burger's calorie content is elevated due to the fatty cuts of bacon and cheese, so it's advisable to balance your meal with lighter options throughout the day. You can enjoy this burger as an occasional indulgence while maintaining overall nutritional balance.
Storage
Store leftover Bacon Beast Burgers tightly wrapped in aluminum foil or airtight containers to maintain freshness and prevent moisture loss. Keep refrigerated at or below 40degF (4degC) and consume within 2-3 days for optimal taste and safety. When reheating, warm the burger on a grill or in an oven to preserve the texture of the bacon and melted cheese, ensuring your savory experience remains satisfying.
Variation or Alternatives
Swap ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner protein option while maintaining a juicy texture. Instead of American cheese, you can use sharp cheddar or pepper jack for a bolder flavor profile. Cooking bacon under a bacon press ensures even crispness and reduces splatter, enhancing your kitchen experience. Toasting the buns on the grill adds a smoky aroma that complements the savory burger ingredients perfectly.
Allergies
The Bacon Beast Burger may pose allergy risks for individuals sensitive to dairy, gluten, or pork. American cheese contains milk, which can trigger dairy allergies, while the hamburger buns contain wheat, a common gluten source. Bacon introduces pork, which some people need to avoid due to religious or health reasons, so you should always check ingredient details before ordering.
Why this recipe?
The Bacon Beast Burger from Hardee's is popular for its robust combination of crispy bacon, juicy beef patty, melted cheese, and fresh toppings that deliver a satisfying flavor experience. You crave its hearty texture and smoky taste that perfectly balance savory and indulgent elements. Crafting a copycat version at home allows you to customize ingredients, control quality, and enjoy this iconic burger at your convenience. This burger's rich flavor profile and iconic status make it a worthwhile recipe to master for any burger enthusiast.