Saddle up for a flavor-packed adventure with these Cowboy Hamburgers—a bold and satisfying twist on the classic burger! These hearty, grill-kissed patties made from juicy 80/20 ground beef are seasoned to perfection with garlic powder, salt, and pepper, then crowned with melty cheddar cheese and crispy, smoky bacon. A tangy layer of barbecue sauce and golden onion rings add a delightful crunch and punch of flavor, while optional lettuce and tomato lend a fresh balance. Build these cowboy-inspired masterpieces on toasty buttered buns for a burger experience that’s as rustic as it is irresistible. Perfect for backyard barbecues or weeknight indulgence, this quick and easy recipe, ready in just 40 minutes, will impress your friends and family. Pair with fries or coleslaw for the ultimate cowboy feast!
Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. Mix gently to avoid overworking the meat.
Divide the beef mixture into 4 equal portions and shape them into patties about ¾-inch thick. Press a small indentation in the center of each patty to prevent puffing up while cooking.
Cook the bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy. Transfer to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess grease. Set aside.
Grill the hamburger patties for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until they reach your desired level of doneness (160°F internal temperature for fully cooked burgers). In the last minute of cooking, place a slice of cheddar cheese on each patty to melt.
If desired, butter the cut sides of the hamburger buns and toast them lightly on the grill or in a skillet until golden brown.
Assemble the cowboy burgers: Place the bottom bun on a plate, and layer with lettuce and a tomato slice (if using). Add the grilled beef patty with melted cheese, 2 strips of bacon, a dollop of barbecue sauce, and 2 onion rings. Top with the upper bun and press down slightly to hold everything together.
Repeat for the remaining burgers.
Serve immediately with your favorite sides, like fries or coleslaw.
Calories |
4883 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 315.7 g | 405% | |
| Saturated Fat | 115.9 g | 580% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.1 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 554 mg | 185% | |
| Sodium | 9787 mg | 426% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 349.6 g | 127% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 77.1 g | 275% | |
| Total Sugars | 52.3 g | ||
| Protein | 212.6 g | 425% | |
| Vitamin D | 1.2 mcg | 6% | |
| Calcium | 1294 mg | 100% | |
| Iron | 21.7 mg | 121% | |
| Potassium | 3240 mg | 69% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.