If you didn’t know already, burgers are a big deal in this house, and these All-In-One Burgers are my absolute favorite. Burgers in general are by far Jeff’s favorite food (well, tacos are a close second).
While I have created some pretty fantastic alternatives at home, like my Jalapeno Popper Turkey Burgers and Chicken Bacon Ranch Burgers, I have struggled to lighten up Jeff’s ultimate choice–a bacon cheeseburger.
A large bacon cheeseburger clocks in at 20 SmartPoints! That’s fine for a special treat every once in a while, but I wanted one that we could eat pretty regularly at home.
The problem is that extra lean ground beef (96/4) on its own is pretty dry and flavorless. I’ve tried multiple iterations and failed every time–until I remembered an old America’s Test Kitchen recipe that always intrigued me. I get so many recipes ideas from those folks.
All-In-One burgers are pretty genius. Incorporate your traditional bacon cheeseburger toppings into the meat mixture, ensuring that you’ll get cheesy bacon goodness in every bite. This technique adds moisture and flavor to that extra lean beef, and you’ll get a terrifically browned crust from all of that cheese.
Now, lets talk overall points. The patty itself is 5 SP, and you won’t need many toppings other than some crunchy lettuce, reduced-fat ketchup, and maybe tomatoes. But the bun is the other points demon here.
Bun Options
If you have a Safeway, Vons, or Alberstons nearby, you can purchase the Safeway Select brand buns–either sesame or whole wheat. They are 3 SP each and pretty hardy.
I’ve also seen talk of “light” hamburger buns for 2 SP, but I can never find those in my locals stores.
If all else fails, Ballpark buns are 4 SP each and available at just about any store across the country.
No matter what you chose, you’ll have yourself a bacon cheeseburger with bun for anywhere from 7-9 SP. That’s more than HALF of the points of something you’d get at a restaurant.
Can we start looking forward to summer yet? I’m already thinking of these for BBQ parties with family and friends. They’ll have no idea they’re eating a lighter version of the classic!
All-In-One Burgers
Ingredients
- 6 strips reduced fat center-cut bacon, cooked and chopped
- 1 lb extra lean ground beef (96 lean/ 4 fat)
- 2/3 cup reduced-fat sharp Cheddar, shredded
- 1/2 small red onion, grated or finely chopped (about 1/2 cup)
- 1 tbsp yellow mustard
- 1 1/2 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 tsp kosher salt
- 1/4 tsp ground black pepper
Instructions
- Mix all ingredients together in a medium bowl.
- Divide mixture into 4 equal portions, then form into 1-inch thick patties. Make them thinner than you think; they will shrink up and get thicker as they cook.
- Heat a grill or large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook each side for about 4-6 minutes, or until a dark brown crust forms.
- Let rest for 5 minutes, then serve with your favorite bun and toppings.
I can’t wait to make this! The center cut bacon I usually use is 2 points for 3 pieces. Do you think that will work out to 5 points a patty? Thanks!
Yep! Those are the same points for the bacon I use, too. Let me know how it goes!
Where do you get your reduced fat sharp cheddar? Walmart stopped carrying the kraft brand. I live in whittier/pico rivera
I find it at Stater Bros or Pavillions/Vons. You could even use the lite 3-cheese blend from Trader Joe’s, though it won’t have as much of a cheddar flavor.
Have you tried this using turkey?
I haven’t, but I’m sure it would be delicious!
Delicious!!! Used half turkey and only 4 pieces of bacon and was very happy with the result. Thanks so much for your great recipes!
Great idea! I’ll have to try it with turkey next time.
Fantastic recipe! Thank you!
So good to hear. You’re welcome!
I don’t typically like cheeseburgers made at home, but this recipe changed my mind! SO delicious, I want to make them every week! Kid and husband approved too 🙂
Yay! Love that the family approved, too.
Finally made these tonight and they were so good! Definitely hits the burger craving spot. My 3 year old took a bite and said, “great job, mom!” which he’s never done before, so I think that confirms the 5 star rating 😉
Awww 3-year-old approved! That’s all the validation I need. 🙂
This was one of the best burgers we have ever made! Thank you for sharing!
Wow! That’s so good to hear. 🙂
My husband and I made these recently and loved them! Definitely going in the rotation.
So good to hear, Kelly!
I can’t have bacon…To make without bacon, would you suggest adding another spice or flavor? (I know this is getting away from the recipe, but appreciate any idea!)
Hi Mary! If you’re avoiding pork/cured meat, you could always add some (diced) sauteed mushrooms, caramelized onions, or roasted red bell peppers. Or, you could use a really flavorful cheese like a smoked gouda or bleu cheese. Have fun and I’d love to hear what you decide on!
So yummy! Words don’t do this burger justice. I don’t often eat red meat, but this was worth every point and calorie and satisfied going to the fast food joint. It was soooo good. Give me one of these any day over a fast food burger or steak!