The barbecue bacon burger is a delightful fusion of smoky, savory, and succulent flavors that will tantalize your taste buds and elevate your grilling game. This recipe combines a perfectly seasoned beef patty with crispy bacon and a rich barbecue sauce. It’s not just a burger; it’s a culinary experience that will transport you to backyard barbecues and summer picnics with every bite. As the bacon crisps to perfection, the juicy beef patty melds seamlessly with the sweet and tangy barbecue sauce, creating a mouthwatering sensation that’s unmatched. Topped with your choice of fresh vegetables and served on a toasted bun, this dish is perfect for family gatherings, cookouts, or even a gourmet dinner at home. Whether you’re an experienced grill master or a novice, this barbecue bacon burger will impress everyone at the table.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef (preferably 80/20 for optimal juiciness)
- 8 slices of bacon
- 1 cup barbecue sauce (your favorite brand or homemade)
- 4 hamburger buns
- 4 slices of cheddar cheese (optional)
- 1 medium onion, sliced (for caramelizing)
- Lettuce leaves (for garnish)
- Tomato slices (for garnish)
- Pickles (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Olive oil (for cooking onions)
Instructions
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
- In a mixing bowl, season the ground beef with salt and pepper, gently forming it into four equally sized patties.
- Cook the bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy. Once cooked, remove and drain on paper towels.
- In the same skillet, add a drizzle of olive oil and sauté the sliced onions until golden and caramelized, about 5-7 minutes. Set aside.
- Place the beef patties on the hot grill and cook for about 4-5 minutes on one side. Flip the burgers and add a slice of cheddar cheese on top if desired.
- Cook for an additional 4-5 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C) for medium doneness.
- During the last minute of grilling, brush the top of each patty with barbecue sauce and lightly toast the burger buns on the grill.
- Assemble the burgers by placing the beef patty on the bottom half of the bun. Add crispy bacon, caramelized onions, lettuce, tomato slices, and pickles if using.
- Drizzle a little more barbecue sauce over the toppings if desired, and cover with the top half of the bun.
Servings
This recipe makes 4 hearty barbecue bacon burgers, perfect for a family meal or gathering with friends. Enjoy your culinary creation!
Nutritional Information
| Nutrients | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 700 kcal |
| Total Fat | 45 g |
| Saturated Fat | 18 g |
| Cholesterol | 100 mg |
| Sodium | 1200 mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 40 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 2 g |
| Sugars | 8 g |
| Protein | 30 g |
Tools Needed
- Grill or stovetop griddle
- Mixing bowl
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Kitchen spatula
- Chef’s knife
- Cutting board
- Meat thermometer
- Serving plates
Tips for Preparing the Recipe
Choose Quality Ingredients: Select high-quality ground beef with a fat content of around 80/20 to ensure a juicy burger. Don’t skimp on the bacon; thick-cut varieties offer better flavor and texture.
Preheat the Grill: Make sure your grill or griddle is preheated to medium-high heat before cooking. This creates a nice sear and helps to lock in the juices of the burger.
Form Patties Gently: When forming your burger patties, handle the meat gently. Overworking the meat can result in tough burgers. Make a slight indentation in the center to prevent them from puffing up while cooking.
Season Generously: Season both sides of the burger patties with salt and pepper just before cooking. Consider adding garlic powder or smoked paprika for an extra flavor kick.
Monitor Cooking Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to ensure your burger is cooked to your desired doneness. The USDA recommends cooking ground beef to 160°F (71°C) for safety.
Layering Flavors: When assembling the burger, layer the bacon, cheese, and barbecue sauce strategically to maximize flavor and prevent sogginess.
Rest the Burgers: Allow cooked burgers to rest for a few minutes before serving. This helps the juices redistribute, keeping the burger moist.
Customize Your Toppings: Feel free to experiment with toppings such as grilled onions, jalapeños, or even a fried egg for added richness.
Skill Level
Intermediate
Serving and Presentation Recommendations
To serve your Barbecue Bacon Burgers, place each burger on a toasted brioche or sesame seed bun for added texture and flavor. Garnish with fresh lettuce, tomato, and pickles, and drizzle a generous amount of barbecue sauce over the top for a visually appealing presentation. For an added touch, consider serving the burgers with a side of crispy sweet potato fries or a fresh coleslaw to balance the richness of the burger. Use decorative plates or rustic wooden boards for an inviting serving display.
Storage Conditions
If you have leftover Barbecue Bacon Burgers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The cooked patties can also be frozen for up to 3 months; wrap them tightly in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil for optimal freshness. When ready to enjoy, thaw burgers in the refrigerator overnight and reheat thoroughly on the grill or stovetop before serving to maintain their delicious flavor and texture.
Health Benefits
A Barbecue Bacon Burger can be quite indulgent, but it also has some nutritional value. Ground beef is an excellent source of protein, which is essential for muscle repair and growth, while bacon, although high in fat, provides a rich flavor and some (albeit limited) protein. The addition of fresh toppings such as lettuce, tomatoes, and pickles adds vitamins, minerals, and fiber to your meal. When consumed in moderation and paired with nutrient-dense sides, this meal can fit into a balanced diet.
Recommendations for Vegans
For a vegan version of the Barbecue Bacon Burger, substitute the ground beef with a plant-based burger patty. Use vegan bacon made from ingredients like coconut or rice paper for the smoky flavor and texture of traditional bacon. Ensure the barbecue sauce and bun are vegan-friendly, and pile on toppings like avocado, grilled mushrooms, or vegan cheese to create a satisfying meal.
Similar Recipes
- Cheesy BBQ Chicken Burger
- Spicy Jalapeño Popper Burger
- Mushroom and Swiss Burger
- BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwich
- Teriyaki Beef Burger
- Grilled Veggie Burger with Avocado
Enjoy crafting this delicious meal, and savor every bite of your Barbecue Bacon Burger!
