15 Fast Food Chains That Nail The Bacon Cheeseburger And 2 That’s A Total Letdown
Bacon. Cheese. Burger. It’s a trifecta of crave-worthy flavors that, when done right, is pure fast-food magic. Some chains know how to balance the smoky crunch of bacon with juicy beef and melty cheese. Others? They just toss limp bacon on a bland burger and call it a day. Here’s who’s killing it—and who really shouldn’t even try.
1. Five Guys
Five Guys knows how to make a mess in the best possible way. Their patties are freshly cooked, juicy, and full of beefy flavor. Add crispy bacon, and you have a burger that’s both filling and satisfying.
With a wide variety of toppings to choose from, each bite can be a new experience. You can add anything from grilled onions to jalapeños, making every burger as unique as your taste buds.
This bacon cheeseburger is a true classic that never fails to impress, offering a comforting and indulgent delight for any burger lover.
2. Wendy’s
Wendy’s Baconator is a towering creation of juicy beef and real, thick Applewood-smoked bacon. This burger doesn’t mess around with flavor, offering a satisfying crunch that keeps you coming back for more.
Every strip of bacon is cooked to perfection, adding a rich, smoky taste that complements the succulent beef patties. The combination is mouthwatering, leaving you wishing for just one more bite.
Whether you’re grabbing a quick lunch or indulging in a late-night craving, Wendy’s delivers a bacon cheeseburger that stands out every time.
3. Shake Shack
Shake Shack’s SmokeShack is a symphony of flavors wrapped in a buttered potato bun. The thick-cut bacon provides a satisfying crunch, while cherry peppers add a zingy kick that keeps things exciting.
ShackSauce ties everything together with a creamy, tangy touch that elevates the entire experience. This burger is not just a meal; it’s a celebration of taste.
Rich, flavorful, and unapologetically indulgent, the SmokeShack is an experience worth savoring, combining classic elements with creative flair.
4. In-N-Out
In-N-Out’s secret menu offers a tantalizing twist with their Animal Style burger, and adding bacon is a game-changer. The savory crunch of bacon complements the melty cheese and special sauce.
The grilled onions add a depth of flavor that’s both sweet and savory, making each bite a new adventure. This burger is a testament to what happens when simplicity meets creativity.
While not officially on the menu, those in the know understand that this combo is an unmissable treat, offering a burst of flavors that linger delightfully.
5. Whataburger
The Bacon & Cheese Whataburger is everything you want in a burger: juicy, savory, and made-to-order. Texas-sized satisfaction greets you with every bite, thanks to fresh ingredients and quality preparation.
Their bacon is crispy and flavorful, adding that essential crunch without overpowering the beef’s natural richness. The cheese melts perfectly, creating a velvety texture that binds everything together.
Whataburger delivers a consistent, reliable burger experience that leaves its mark, making it a staple for those seeking hearty indulgence without compromise.
6. Smashburger
At Smashburger, the combination of Applewood-smoked bacon and real aged cheddar takes center stage. These premium ingredients transform the classic bacon cheeseburger into something truly gourmet.
Each bite delivers a smoky, savory taste that’s perfectly balanced with the rich creaminess of the cheese. The beef patty is cooked to perfection, juicy and flavorful.
With a focus on quality, Smashburger elevates the fast-food experience, offering a burger that’s both sophisticated and satisfying, perfect for those who appreciate a touch of elegance in their meal.
7. Culver’s
Culver’s ButterBurger with bacon is a masterpiece of indulgence. The buttery bun cradles a perfectly cooked beef patty, with melty cheese and thick-cut bacon adding layers of flavor.
Each element is crafted with care to ensure a delightful dining experience. The bacon is crisp, enhancing the overall savoriness, while the buttered bun adds a touch of richness that’s hard to resist.
For those who seek a burger that offers more than the ordinary, Culver’s delivers a harmonious blend of tastes and textures that leave a lasting impression.
8. Carl’s Jr./Hardee’s
The Western Bacon Cheeseburger from Carl’s Jr. is a smoky, tangy treat that hits all the right notes. With crispy onion rings and BBQ sauce, it offers a twist on the classic bacon cheeseburger.
The bacon is crispy and complements the tangy BBQ sauce, creating an irresistible flavor combination. Every bite is a fusion of textures, from the crunch of the onion rings to the gooey cheese.
This burger is a bold statement of flavor, providing a thrilling adventure for your taste buds, perfect for those who love a little excitement in their meal.
9. Jack in the Box
The Bacon Ultimate Cheeseburger from Jack in the Box is a decadent creation that embraces its greasy, gooey nature. It’s unapologetically indulgent, with layers of melty cheese and crispy bacon.
Each bite is a satisfying mess of flavors, where the bacon adds a subtle smokiness to the juicy beef patties. It’s an experience that’s both comforting and gratifying.
Perfect for late-night cravings or a treat-yourself moment, this burger delivers a level of satisfaction that only a truly rich and flavorful creation can provide.
10. Freddy’s Frozen Custard & Steakburgers
Freddy’s Frozen Custard & Steakburgers offer a unique take with lean patties that have crispy edges and flavorful bacon. The bacon remains crisp, even under the gooey American cheese.
The patties are cooked to perfection, delivering a satisfying crunch along the edges, contrasting beautifully with the creamy cheese. The bacon’s smoky notes enhance the overall flavor.
For those who appreciate quality ingredients and thoughtful preparation, Freddy’s delivers a burger that’s both nostalgic and deliciously different, making it a standout choice.
11. BurgerFi
BurgerFi stands out with their commitment to quality, using hormone-free beef and real bacon. This bacon cheeseburger is fast-casual dining at its finest, offering elevated toppings for those who crave more.
Each bite is a testament to BurgerFi’s dedication to flavor, with juicy beef and crisp bacon creating a symphony of taste. The toppings are thoughtful, enhancing rather than overpowering the main ingredients.
For those who want a burger that’s a step above the ordinary, BurgerFi delivers in both taste and quality, crafting a memorable dining experience.
12. The Habit Burger Grill
The Habit Burger Grill is all about clean flavors and solid ingredients. Their chargrilled patties offer a savory, smoky bite that’s enhanced by thick, flavorful bacon.
Fresh buns envelop this creation, adding a soft, pillowy texture that complements the hearty burger. It’s all about balance and taste, making this a go-to for those who appreciate quality.
Simple yet effective, this bacon cheeseburger provides a satisfying and delectable experience, making it a favorite for anyone seeking honest, flavorful fast food.
13. Fatburger
Fatburger is a West Coast classic known for its thick bacon, rich cheese, and indulgent patties. The generous portions make this burger a meal to remember.
The bacon adds a satisfying crunch, while the cheese contributes a creamy richness. Each patty is cooked to perfection, providing a juicy, fulfilling bite.
For those who seek a hearty indulgence, Fatburger delivers on every front, offering a robust flavor profile that satisfies both the stomach and the soul.
14. Sonic Drive-In
Sonic Drive-In’s SuperSONIC Bacon Double Cheeseburger is a delight for those who love to customize their meals. With gooey cheese and crispy bacon, it offers a satisfying base.
You can add a variety of extras, from jalapeños to extra cheese, tailoring each burger to your liking. The bacon remains crispy, providing a delightful contrast to the melty cheese.
Whether you’re in the mood for something simple or loaded with toppings, Sonic delivers a versatile option that never disappoints, offering a tasty fast-food escape.
15. Mooyah Burgers, Fries & Shakes
Mooyah offers a burger experience that’s both fresh and flavorful. Their thick patties are juicy and packed with beefy goodness, paired with quality bacon and gooey cheese.
The buns are great too, soft and fresh, holding everything together without being overwhelming. Free toppings allow for a personalized touch, ensuring each burger is just right.
Mooyah’s commitment to quality and taste shines through, making it a fantastic option for those who want a delicious, hearty meal with no compromises on flavor.
16. McDonald’s
McDonald’s Bacon Cheeseburger is a letdown for those expecting a flavor-packed meal. The bacon is limp and fails to add the needed crunch.
Tiny patties feel more like a snack than a satisfying meal, leaving much to be desired. The whole burger lacks the juicy, flavorful punch that one hopes for.
For those who crave a real bacon cheeseburger experience, this option falls short, offering a forgettable and underwhelming meal that doesn’t live up to expectations.
17. Burger King
The Bacon King from Burger King is a case of missed potential. Thin, chewy bacon gets lost amidst overly greasy patties, resulting in a lackluster flavor experience.
While the name suggests greatness, the execution leaves a bland taste, with bacon that fails to stand out. The patties are flat and uninspiring.
For those who want a burger that delivers on its promise, the Bacon King disappoints, offering a meal that’s more about quantity than quality, leaving true burger lovers longing for more.