Updated on September 9th, 2025
Sometimes the only way to make a good burger even better is by stacking on more cheese, and that’s exactly what happens with this burger with mozzarella sticks recipe. The juicy beef patty gets topped with a slice of American cheese, crispy bacon, tangy BBQ sauce, and gooey mozzarella sticks for the ultimate bite. While it may sound over the top, the flavors come together perfectly with the smoky bacon, creamy cheese, and crunchy mozzarella sticks all working with the burger. This recipe is fun to make for parties, game day, or anytime you just want to enjoy a burger that feels like a real treat.
Why this recipe works
- Cheese overload in the best way: The combination of American cheese and mozzarella sticks gives the burger both a creamy melt and a crispy-cheesy bite that makes it unforgettable.
- Great balance of flavors: The smoky bacon and sweet BBQ sauce complement the beef patty while also cutting through the richness of the cheese.
- Texture in every bite: From the crunch of the mozzarella sticks to the juiciness of the burger and the softness of the bun, every layer has something different to offer.
- Easy to customize: You can use your favorite brand of BBQ sauce, make homemade mozzarella sticks, or even swap out the cheese for something else to fit your taste.
- Crowd-pleasing idea: It’s more than just a burger, it’s the kind of meal that feels playful and fun, making it perfect to share with family or friends.
Serving suggestions
- Classic side: Pair the burger with crispy French fries or onion rings since both go hand in hand with the cheesy, saucy flavors.
- Game day plate: Serve these burgers with wings, nachos, or loaded potato skins for a full spread that’s great for watching sports with a group.
- Lighter balance: Add a simple green salad or some grilled vegetables on the side if you want something fresher to go with the richness of the burger.
- Extra toppings: You could add pickles, jalapeños, or even a fried egg if you want to take it to the next level.
- Perfect for sharing: Make them as sliders with smaller patties and half-sized buns so guests can grab one or two without needing a full meal.
Burger with Mozzarella Sticks Recipe
This burger with mozzarella sticks recipe makes a fun, cheesy comfort food idea that is perfect for family dinners or casual weekends.
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 Servings 1x
Ingredients
Units
Scale
- 1 1/2lbs ground beef
- salt and pepper
- 4 slices American cheese
- 8 slices of bacon
- 4–8 frozen mozzarella sticks (1 or 2 per burger)
- 4 tablespoons BBQ sauce
- 4 sesame seed buns
- butter (for spreading)
Instructions
- Cook the mozzarella sticks according to package directions (I baked them but you could deep-fry them as well).
- Add bacon to a large skillet and cook over medium heat, turning once, until it has turned brown in color and is crispy. Drain on a plate that is lined with paper towels. Drain any excess fat from the pan.
- Form the ground beef into 4 equal patties and season on both sides with salt and pepper. Place the patties into the skillet that the bacon was cooked in. Cook over medium-high heat, turning frequently until fully cooked (the internal temperature has reached 160 degrees F.). During the last few minutes of cooking top each patty with a slice of American cheese. Cook until the cheese has melted.
- Split the sesame seed buns in half and spread the butter onto the cut side of each bun. Place cut side down into a clean skillet and toast over medium heat until golden brown on the bottom (this can be done in a separate skillet while the burgers are cooking).
- To assemble the sliders—place each burger onto the top of the bottom half of each bun. Top with 2 bacon slices and 1-2 mozzarella sticks per burger. Spread the BBQ sauce onto the bottom of the top half of each bun. Place it onto the burger, BBQ sauce side down.
Nutrition
- Serving Size:
- Calories: 1507
- Sugar: 10.6 g
- Sodium: 2316.2 mg
- Fat: 101.8 g
- Carbohydrates: 48.7 g
- Protein: 109.9 g
- Cholesterol: 171.6 mg