Hi friend!
Tonight we’re having a burger night, but not the boring kind—these Cowboy Burgers have crispy bacon and sharp cheddar cheese, then finished with a sweet and tangy ketchup glaze that takes them over the top. This easy air fryer burger recipe is perfect for busy nights when you still want something easy, flavorful, and a little indulgent. And if you don’t have an air fryer, don’t worry—I’m sharing oven and crockpot instructions so you can make these juicy bacon‑cheddar burgers no matter what you’re cooking with.
A few of my Amazon favorites that I use to create this easy weeknight meal are:
Meat Chopper: https://amzn.to/3Rbaq3c
Power XL Air Fryer (this is the updated version of the I one I have) https://amzn.to/49oYHUL
Carote Pans https://amzn.to/4cVN0pE
Hotec Utensil Set https://amzn.to/4cVN9JI
Meat Thermometer https://amzn.to/4t4CbI1
As an Amazon affiliate I do earn a commission when you use my links. This does not cost you any more to shop using these links. I appreciate you supporting me by shopping these links.
Here is the recipe!
Protein Packed Cowboy Burgers
Ingredients
- 1 lb Ground Beef
- 6 Slices Cooked Bacon
- 1 c Shredded Cheddar Cheese
- 1 T Steak Seasoning
- ¼ c Ketchup
- ¼ c Apple Cider Vinegar
- 1 T BBQ Rub
- Burger toppings of your choice such as onion, lettuce, and tomatoes
Instructions
- Combine ground beef, cheese, bacon, and steak seasoning and shape in to 4 patties
- Make the ketchup glaze by combining the ketchup, apple cider vinegar and the BBQ rub
- Air fry the patties at 350 for 10 minutes flipping at the 5 minute mark
- Top cooked burgers with the ketchup glaze
- Build your burger and enjoy!
Notes
These burgers are based on my Cowboy Meatloaf for One you can find that recipe here: https://staceyssimplemeals.com/meatloaf-for-one-3-ways/
You can find my Steak Seasoning blend here: https://staceyssimplemeals.com/3-healthy-seasoning-blends/
You can find my BBQ rub here: https://staceyssimplemeals.com/3-homemade-seasoning-blends/
I hope these Cowboy Burgers bring something a little extra to your next burger night and make dinner feel special. Let me know if you give them a try.
Have a wonderful week ahead.

