Why You’ll Love this Vegetarian Western Bacon Cheeseburger Recipe
If you’re looking for a satisfying meal that doesn’t skimp on flavor, you’ll love this Vegetarian Western Bacon Cheeseburger recipe.
It’s a delightful twist on the classic burger, full of smoky, savory goodness that’ll make your taste buds dance. The combination of crispy onion rings and rich barbecue sauce takes it to new heights, creating a mouthwatering experience you won’t forget.
Plus, using Morningstar Farms grillers and Lightlife Smart Bacon guarantees you’re enjoying a hearty meal without the meat.
I love how easy it’s to prepare—perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend treat.
Trust me, once you take a bite, you’ll find yourself craving this burger again and again!
Ingredients of Vegetarian Western Bacon Cheeseburger
When it comes to whipping up a delicious Vegetarian Western Bacon Cheeseburger, having the right ingredients on hand is key. This burger isn’t just about being meat-free; it’s about packing in flavor and texture that will make you forget you’re even missing the beef.
With crispy onion rings, smoky bacon, and gooey cheese all sandwiched between a toasted bun, your taste buds are in for a treat. So, let’s gather everything you need to make this mouthwatering creation happen in your kitchen.
Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 large hamburger bun
- 1 Morningstar Farms griller patty
- 1 slice cheddar cheese
- 2 slices Lightlife Smart Bacon
- 2 onion rings (you can make your own or buy them)
- 2 tablespoons barbecue sauce
Now, before you rush to the kitchen, let’s chat about those ingredients a bit. The beauty of this recipe is its flexibility. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can totally make your own onion rings at home.
Just remember to preheat that oven first—trust me, nothing’s worse than realizing your rings are still frozen while your burger is sizzling away. And if you’re not into cheddar, swap it out for your favorite cheese. Maybe a pepper jack for a spicy kick? Just think about how melty and gooey that would be.
The barbecue sauce can also be adjusted; a smoky sauce or a sweet one can change the whole vibe of the burger. So, feel free to mix and match according to your taste, and remember, cooking should be fun, not stressful!
How to Make Vegetarian Western Bacon Cheeseburger
Making a Vegetarian Western Bacon Cheeseburger isn’t just about slapping ingredients together; it’s an experience, a delicious journey of flavors and textures that will make your taste buds dance! So, let’s plunge into the process, shall we?
First things first, if you’re planning to make your own onion rings (and I highly recommend it for that homemade touch), go ahead and preheat your oven. This way, they’ll be crispy and ready when you are.
Now, grab your 1 large hamburger bun and, if you haven’t already, get those onion rings baking. While those are in the oven, spray a small pan with cooking spray and heat it up to medium. It’s time to make that 1 slice of Lightlife Smart Bacon crispy. Cook the bacon until it reaches that perfect level of crispy goodness—think of it as the bacon equivalent of a sun-kissed tan, slightly burned but still beautiful. Once that’s done, set it aside.
Now, let’s move on to the star of the show: the Morningstar Farms griller patty. Thaw it in the microwave for a quick minute or two, then transfer it to the heated pan. Cook it on medium-low until it’s slightly crispy on the outside, but be careful not to burn it.
While your griller patty is sizzling away, you can toast your bun in a separate skillet. It’s all about layering those flavors. As soon as you flip the patty, place that glorious 1 slice of cheddar cheese right on top along with the crispy bacon and 2 tablespoons of barbecue sauce. If you want to get a little fancy, add a few drops of water to the pan to create steam, helping that cheese melt into a gooey dream.
Now, when everything is ready, pull the bottom bun from the skillet and place your onion rings on it. Finally, take the rest of the burger, cheese and all, and place it on top. Voilà! You’ve just made a mouthwatering Vegetarian Western Bacon Cheeseburger that’s begging to be devoured. Enjoy every last bite, and don’t forget to pat yourself on the back for a job well done.
Vegetarian Western Bacon Cheeseburger Substitutions & Variations
Creating a Vegetarian Western Bacon Cheeseburger opens up a world of possibilities for substitutions and variations that can suit your taste preferences or dietary needs.
For the patty, you can swap out the Morningstar Farms grillers for a black bean or chickpea burger for a different flavor profile. If you’re dairy-free, try a vegan cheese or skip it altogether.
Instead of Smart Bacon, consider crispy tempeh or eggplant bacon for a unique twist. For a spicy kick, add jalapeños or a chipotle BBQ sauce.
You can also use whole-grain or gluten-free buns to accommodate dietary restrictions. Feel free to get creative with toppings like avocado, sautéed mushrooms, or even fresh spinach for added nutrition and flavor!
What to Serve with Vegetarian Western Bacon Cheeseburger
A delicious Vegetarian Western Bacon Cheeseburger deserves equally tasty sides to complete the meal.
I love serving mine with crispy sweet potato fries or classic potato wedges. They add a satisfying crunch and a bit of sweetness that complements the savory flavors of the burger.
A fresh side salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a tangy vinaigrette also pairs perfectly, balancing the richness of the cheeseburger.
If I’m feeling indulgent, I might whip up some creamy coleslaw for an extra layer of flavor and texture.
And let’s not forget a revitalizing beverage like homemade lemonade or iced tea to wash it all down.
These sides not only enhance the burger experience but also create a well-rounded meal. Enjoy!
Additional Tips & Notes
While preparing your Crispy Onion Ring Vegetarian Bacon Cheeseburger, keep a few tips in mind to elevate your cooking experience.
First, if you’re making onion rings from scratch, start them early so they’re hot and crispy when you assemble your burger.
Don’t skimp on the barbecue sauce; it adds a delicious layer of flavor.
When cooking the Smart Bacon, let it get really crispy for that satisfying crunch.
For the cheese, I recommend a sharp cheddar for a bolder taste.
If you like extra toppings, consider adding lettuce or sliced tomatoes for freshness.
Finally, don’t forget to serve your burger with a side of fries or a salad to round out the meal.
Enjoy your cooking adventure!