The Big Red from Miller's Ale House features a juicy grilled burger topped with melted cheddar cheese, crispy bacon, fresh lettuce, ripe tomato, and tangy pickles, all layered on a toasted brioche bun for a hearty and flavorful bite.
Equipments
- Grill
- Tongs
- Spatula
- Chef’s knife
- Cutting board
- Cheese slicer (optional)
- Frying pan or skillet (for bacon)
- Plate or tray (for assembling)
- Toaster or grill (for bun)
- Food-safe gloves
- Ladle or squeeze bottle (if adding sauce)
- Serving platter or basket
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- Cheddar cheese slices
- Bacon strips
- Lettuce leaves
- Tomato slices
- Pickle slices
- Brioche burger buns
- Salt
- Black pepper
Ensure you select high-quality ground beef with a balanced fat content around 20% for juiciness and flavor in your burger. Fresh, crisp lettuce and ripe tomatoes are key to achieving the authentic texture and taste of The Big Red from Miller's Ale House. Use thick-cut bacon strips cooked until crispy to replicate the signature crunch that complements the melted cheddar cheese. Toast the brioche buns lightly to add a buttery richness and prevent sogginess from the burger's juices. Your copycat menu version of The Big Red will shine by prioritizing fresh ingredients and proper cooking techniques.
Instructions
- Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
- Portion ground beef into burger patties.
- Season patties with salt and black pepper.
- Place bacon strips in a frying pan or skillet; cook until crispy. Set aside.
- Grill burger patties to desired doneness.
- Place cheddar cheese slices on patties; allow to melt.
- Toast brioche burger buns on grill or toaster.
- Slice tomatoes and pickles; wash and prepare lettuce leaves.
- Assemble from bottom bun: lettuce, tomato slices, grilled patty with melted cheese, bacon, pickle slices.
- Top with the other half of the brioche bun.
- Serve assembled burger on a platter or basket.
Substitution
The Big Red from Miller's Ale House copycat menu allows you to capture the signature juicy grilled burger experience at home with cheddar cheese, crispy bacon, lettuce, tomato, and pickles on a toasted brioche bun. If you can't find brioche buns, using a buttery potato roll or classic hamburger bun provides a similar texture and flavor. When grilling the bacon, a skillet or oven broiler can replace a frying pan to achieve crispiness without extra equipment. For slicing tomatoes or cheese, a chef's knife or slicing tool works fine, but a cheese slicer makes even cuts easier if available. If you prefer, swapping cheddar for a sharper cheese like aged gouda can add a new flavor dimension to your burger.
Tips
Make sure to handle raw ground beef with food-safe gloves to prevent cross-contamination during preparation. Avoid pressing down on burger patties while grilling, as this squeezes out juices and can result in a drier burger. Use a meat thermometer to check for a safe internal temperature of 160degF (71degC) to ensure your burger is fully cooked. Your toasted brioche bun will add texture and flavor, so toast it just until golden without burning for the best bite.
Nutritions
The Big Red burger from Miller's Ale House combines 1 lb of protein-rich ground beef with cheddar cheese, which offers a good source of calcium and vitamin D. Crispy bacon adds flavor and fats, while fresh lettuce, tomato, and pickles contribute vitamins A, C, potassium, and antioxidants for overall nutrition. The toasted brioche bun provides carbohydrates and some dietary fiber, rounding out the macronutrient profile in each hearty bite. Your choice of seasoning with salt and pepper keeps the flavors simple while allowing the natural ingredients to shine nutritionally.
Storage
To keep your Big Red burger fresh, store cooked patties and bacon separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator, ideally within two hours of cooking. Wrap the brioche buns in foil or place them in a sealed plastic bag to maintain softness, storing at room temperature for up to two days or in the fridge for longer freshness. Fresh lettuce, tomato, and pickles are best kept in sealed containers or produce bags inside the refrigerator to preserve crispness and flavor.
Variation or Alternatives
You can swap cheddar cheese with pepper jack or Swiss for a different flavor profile. If you prefer a smoky twist, try grilling the bacon alongside the patties on the grill instead of frying. For added moisture, spread a layer of garlic aioli or chipotle mayo on the toasted brioche buns before assembling. Switching the brioche bun to a pretzel bun or whole wheat roll offers additional texture and taste variations.
Allergies
The Big Red from Miller's Ale House contains common allergens such as dairy in the cheddar cheese and gluten in the brioche buns, which may trigger reactions in individuals sensitive to these ingredients. Bacon may also pose concerns for those with pork allergies or dietary restrictions, and cross-contamination with other allergens could occur during preparation. You should inform the staff about any specific allergies to ensure your meal is safe and enjoyable.
Why this recipe?
The Big Red menu at Miller's Ale House offers a unique blend of bold, flavorful dishes known for their rich spices and hearty portions, making it a favorite among diners seeking satisfying comfort food. Its signature recipes feature expertly crafted sauces and seasonings that create a memorable taste experience not easily found elsewhere. You will enjoy recreating this menu at home because it allows you to capture the authentic flavors and appeal of popular dishes while customizing ingredients to your preference. Trying a copycat version is worth it for its combination of quality, taste, and the opportunity to bring a restaurant favorite to your own kitchen.