Bacon Cheeseburger

Instructions

1. Prepare the patties
   In a large bowl, combine ground beef, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix gently with your hands, being careful not to overwork the meat. Divide into 4 equal portions and form into patties about 1/2 inch thick and slightly larger than your buns, as they will shrink when cooking.
2. Cook the bacon
   In a large skillet over medium heat, cook bacon until crispy, about 3-4 minutes per side. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess grease. Keep about 1 tablespoon of bacon grease in the skillet for cooking the burgers.
3. Grill the burgers
   Heat the skillet with bacon grease over medium-high heat. Cook the patties for about 4 minutes on the first side. Flip and cook for 3 minutes on the second side for medium doneness. Add a slice of cheese on top of each patty during the last minute of cooking to allow it to melt. Alternatively, you can grill the patties on an outdoor grill.
4. Toast the buns
   While the burgers are cooking, lightly toast the hamburger buns either in a toaster, under a broiler, or on the edge of the grill for about 30 seconds until golden brown.
5. Prepare the sauce
   In a small bowl, mix together mayonnaise and ketchup to create a simple burger sauce. Spread the sauce on both halves of the toasted buns.
6. Assemble the burgers
   Place a lettuce leaf on the bottom half of each bun. Add the cheese-topped patty, followed by 2 slices of crispy bacon, a slice of tomato, and a slice of red onion. Top with the remaining bun half and serve immediately.