Bacon Western Cheeseburger

Fry bacon and set aside. Form ground beef into 1/4-pound patties. Make an indention in the middle of the patties, this will help them to not puff up during the cooking process. Make the burgers slightly bigger than the bun as they will shrink during cooking.

Cook them however you like whether its grilling, skillet or griddle, I used a griddle this time. Preheat to medium high heat. Add a touch of oil to the device so the meat doesn't stick. Salt and pepper if desired.

Cook undisturbed for a few minutes before flipping so that the burgers have time to get a good sear and develop a perfect crust. Hamburgers should cook until internal temperature reaches 160 degrees. Just before burgers are ready to come off the griddle add cheese. The original Carl's Jr. burger has American cheese but we prefer cheddar so that is what is pictured.

Butter cut side of the buns and toast on the griddle adding them when patties are almost ready. You can also toast them on the grill or in the broiler on a baking sheet for a few minutes.

Build burgers. Add patty to the bottom bun then bacon. I like to use 2 pieces of bacon torn in half so that it fits nicely. Then add 2 Crispy Onion Rings on top of the bacon slices. Add a generous amount of barbecue sauce to the top bun.

Serve with more onion rings and enjoy!