The Western Bacon Cheeseburger from Hardee's features a juicy beef patty topped with smoky bacon, melted cheddar cheese, crispy onion rings, and tangy barbecue sauce, all nestled between a toasted sesame seed bun for a hearty and flavorful bite.
Equipments
- Grill or flat-top grill
- Spatula
- Fryer
- Fry basket
- Tongs
- Cheese slicer or pre-sliced cheese
- Bun toaster or grill
- Assembly table
- Sauce dispenser or squeeze bottle
- Knife (for slicing, if needed)
Ingredients
- 1/4 lb (113g) ground beef patty
- 2 slices smoky bacon
- 1 slice cheddar cheese
- 2-3 crispy onion rings
- 2 tablespoons barbecue sauce
- 1 sesame seed hamburger bun
Using fresh, high-quality ground beef is essential for achieving the juicy texture of the Western Bacon Cheeseburger from Hardee's. Choose thick-cut smoky bacon to enhance the savory flavor, and opt for melted cheddar cheese to create a creamy contrast with the crispy onion rings. Ensure your onion rings are golden and crunchy by frying them at the right temperature to avoid sogginess. Toasting the sesame seed bun adds a slight crunch and prevents it from becoming soggy from the barbecue sauce. Your taste buds will appreciate the authentic flavor when you try this Western Bacon Cheeseburger copycat recipe from Hardee's.
Instructions
- Preheat grill or flat-top grill.
- Preheat fryer to appropriate temperature.
- Cook beef patty on grill, flipping once, until fully cooked.
- Place slice of cheddar cheese on patty during the last minute of cooking to melt.
- Cook bacon strips on grill until crispy.
- Fry onion rings in fryer until golden brown and crispy.
- Toast sesame seed bun on bun toaster or grill.
- Place bottom bun on assembly table.
- Place cooked beef patty with melted cheese on bottom bun.
- Add cooked bacon strips on top of patty.
- Place crispy onion rings over the bacon.
- Drizzle barbecue sauce (2 tablespoons) over the onion rings using sauce dispenser.
- Top with the toasted top bun.
- Serve immediately.
Substitution
The Western Bacon Cheeseburger copycat recipe from Hardee's combines a 1/4 lb ground beef patty with smoky bacon, cheddar cheese, crispy onion rings, and tangy barbecue sauce on a toasted sesame seed bun for an authentic taste experience. Your burger's flavor profile can be altered by substituting turkey or plant-based patties if preferred, keeping cooking times in mind. If you don't have a fry basket, onion rings can be baked or air-fried as a healthier alternative without sacrificing crunch. Use a grill pan or skillet if you lack a flat-top grill, ensuring the patty is cooked evenly and bacon crisps properly. For convenience, pre-sliced cheddar cheese and squeeze bottles for barbecue sauce streamline the assembly process while maintaining quality.
Tips
Ensure your grill or flat-top grill reaches the right temperature before cooking to avoid undercooked or dry beef patties. Use a spatula to flip the patty only once to retain its juiciness and place the cheddar cheese on top just before removing the patty to achieve perfect melt. When frying onion rings, maintain oil temperature to get a golden crisp texture without sogginess. Remember to toast your sesame seed bun until lightly browned for a crunchy contrast, and assemble your burger promptly to keep all components warm and fresh.
Nutritions
A Western Bacon Cheeseburger from Hardee's contains approximately 730 calories, with 45 grams of fat and 38 grams of protein, making it a high-calorie, protein-rich meal ideal for those needing substantial energy intake. The bacon and cheddar cheese provide saturated fats, which should be consumed in moderation, while the sesame seed bun adds carbohydrates essential for quick energy. Your intake of sodium may be elevated due to the barbecue sauce, bacon, and cheese, so balancing this meal with lower-sodium foods later can help maintain overall heart health. Including this burger occasionally in your diet can satisfy cravings but consider portion control to manage calorie and fat consumption effectively.
Storage
To store your Western Bacon Cheeseburger properly, wrap it tightly in aluminum foil or plastic wrap to retain moisture and prevent contamination. Place the wrapped burger in an airtight container and refrigerate at 40degF (4degC) or below for up to 2 days. Reheat the burger on a grill or stovetop to maintain crispness of the bacon and onion rings before serving.
Variation or Alternatives
You can swap cheddar cheese for pepper jack or smoked gouda to add a different flavor profile. Try swapping barbecue sauce with chipotle mayo or a spicy sriracha aioli for a kick. For a healthier twist, bake the onion rings instead of frying them, or substitute with thinly sliced, grilled red onions. Using a pretzel bun instead of the sesame seed bun gives your burger a richer texture and taste.
Allergies
The Western Bacon Cheeseburger contains common allergens such as dairy from cheddar cheese and gluten from the sesame seed hamburger bun. Smoky bacon and barbecue sauce may also include preservatives or additives that trigger sensitivities in some individuals. You should check ingredient labels carefully if you have allergies to dairy, gluten, or processed meats before enjoying this burger.
Why this recipe?
The Western Bacon Cheeseburger from Hardee's features a juicy beef patty topped with crispy bacon, melted cheese, and tangy barbecue sauce, creating a perfect balance of savory and smoky flavors. This signature burger includes golden onion rings that add a delightful crunch, enhancing the overall texture experience. You'll find it worth trying a copycat recipe to enjoy the same bold taste and satisfying combination at home, saving money while customizing ingredients to your preference. The popularity of this menu item stems from its rich, indulgent flavor profile and the high-quality ingredients that Hardee's consistently delivers.