Wendy's Copycat Junior Bacon Cheeseburger Recipe

Learn how to make the best homemade Wendy's-style Junior Bacon Cheeseburger with this easy copycat recipe. Features perfectly seasoned beef patties, crispy bacon, and that signature fast-food flavor combination. Master the technique for juicy burgers that taste just like the drive-thru favorite!

Difficulty:

Beginner

Prep Time:

20 mins

Cook Time:

15 mins

Serves:

4 burgers

Ingredients

<ul class="ingredients-main-list"> <li class="ingredients-single-item">450g lean ground beef (80/20 fat ratio)</li> <li class="ingredients-single-item">8 slices bacon</li> <li class="ingredients-single-item">4 slices American cheese (or mild cheddar)</li> <li class="ingredients-single-item">4 small burger buns</li> <li class="ingredients-single-item">1 medium tomato, thinly sliced</li> <li class="ingredients-single-item">4 leaves iceberg lettuce, washed and dried</li> <li class="ingredients-single-item">2 tablespoons mayonnaise</li> <li class="ingredients-single-item">2 tablespoons ketchup</li> <li class="ingredients-single-item">1 teaspoon salt</li> <li class="ingredients-single-item">1/2 teaspoon black pepper</li> <li class="ingredients-single-item">1/2 teaspoon garlic powder</li> <li class="ingredients-single-item">30g butter, softened</li> </ul>

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🍽️ Serving Size:

🔥 Calories:

🥑 Fat:

🧈 Saturated Fat:

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Equipment

<ul class="equipment-main-list"> <li class="equipment-single-item">Cast iron skillet or griddle</li> <li class="equipment-single-item">Spatula</li> <li class="equipment-single-item">Meat thermometer</li> <li class="equipment-single-item">Kitchen scale</li> </ul>

Directions

<ol class="no-list-style"> <li class="MethodStepper"> <h4 class="step-title">Step 1</h4> Divide the ground beef into four equal portions of about 115g each. Gently form into thin patties that are slightly larger than your burger buns, as they'll shrink while cooking. Press your thumb into the center of each patty to create a small dimple - this prevents the burgers from puffing up in the middle during cooking. Season both sides generously with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. </li> <li class="MethodStepper"> <h4 class="step-title">Step 2</h4> Heat a cast-iron skillet or griddle over medium-high heat. Cook the bacon strips until crispy, about 3-4 minutes per side. The fat content in bacon renders down during cooking, creating that perfect crispy texture. Remove bacon to a paper towel-lined plate and drain most of the bacon fat from the pan, leaving about 1 tablespoon. </li> <li class="MethodStepper"> <h4 class="step-title">Step 3</h4> Return the skillet to medium-high heat. When hot, add the burger patties and cook for about 2-3 minutes on the first side until a nice crust forms. Flip once and immediately top each patty with a slice of cheese. Continue cooking for another 1-2 minutes for medium doneness (internal temperature of 71°C). Remember that carryover cooking will continue after removing from heat. </li> <li class="MethodStepper"> <h4 class="step-title">Step 4</h4> While the burgers cook, spread the softened butter on the inside surfaces of each bun. Place the buns butter-side down in a clean part of the skillet or in a separate pan over medium heat for about 30 seconds until golden and toasted. The butter creates a moisture barrier that prevents the juices from making the bun soggy. </li> <li class="MethodStepper"> <h4 class="step-title">Step 5</h4> To assemble the burgers (in true Wendy's style), spread mayonnaise on the bottom bun, then add lettuce and tomato. Place the cheese-topped patty on top, followed by two slices of bacon (broken in half to fit if needed). Spread ketchup on the top bun and place it on top of the stack. </li> <li class="MethodStepper"> <h4 class="step-title">Step 6</h4> For the authentic Wendy's experience, wrap each burger in parchment paper and let it rest for 1-2 minutes. This brief resting period allows the flavors to meld together and gives the cheese time to fully melt while the bread steams slightly for that signature fast-food texture. Serve immediately while still warm. </li> </ol>

FAQs

Find answers to your most pressing questions about this delicious recipe right here.

What ingredients are used in Wendy's Copycat Junior Bacon Cheeseburger Recipe?

This recipe requires lean ground beef (80/20 fat ratio), bacon, American cheese, small burger buns, tomato, iceberg lettuce, mayonnaise, ketchup, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and butter. These simple ingredients combine to create that authentic fast-food flavour at home.

How to cook Wendy's Copycat Junior Bacon Cheeseburger Recipe at home?

Learn how to cook Wendy's Copycat Junior Bacon Cheeseburger Recipe by first forming thin beef patties with a dimple in the centre, then cooking bacon until crispy. Sear the seasoned patties for 2-3 minutes per side, adding cheese after flipping. Meanwhile, toast buttered buns and assemble with mayo, lettuce, tomato, the cheese-topped patty, bacon, and ketchup for that authentic fast-food experience.

How do I get that perfect fast-food texture for homemade burgers?

For authentic fast-food texture, use 80/20 beef for juiciness, form thin patties instead of thick ones, cook on high heat for a good sear, use American cheese for proper melting, and wrap completed burgers in parchment paper for 1-2 minutes to steam the buns slightly and meld flavours.

What's the best way to prevent homemade burger patties from shrinking?

Create a dimple or depression in the centre of your patties using your thumb. This prevents the burger from puffing up and shrinking during cooking. Also, make your patties slightly larger than your buns initially, as they'll contract while cooking, resulting in the perfect size.

Can I make these bacon cheeseburgers healthier without sacrificing flavour?

Yes! Use lean ground beef (90/10), turkey bacon, reduced-fat cheese, whole grain buns, and add extra vegetables. Replace some mayonnaise with Greek yogurt or light mayo. These swaps maintain the essential flavour profile while reducing calories, fat and increasing nutritional value.

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