Wendy's Copycat Junior Bacon Cheeseburger Recipe

<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>

<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>

<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>