Preheat your grill or a skillet over medium-high heat.
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined.
Divide the meat mixture into four equal portions and shape them into patties, making a slight indentation in the center of each patty.
Grill or cook the patties for about 4-5 minutes on one side.
Flip the patties, add a slice of cheddar cheese on top of each, and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes.
While the burgers are cooking, toast the hamburger buns until golden brown.
Assemble each burger by spreading 1 tablespoon of barbecue sauce on the bottom bun, placing the cooked patty with melted cheese on top, followed by bacon, fried onion strings, lettuce, tomato, and pickles if desired. Top with the other half of the bun.
Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious Cowboy Burger!