BBQ Bacon Burger: The Ultimate Guide to Grilling Perfection

BBQ Bacon Burger: Is there anything that screams summer quite like the smoky, savory, and utterly irresistible combination of barbecue sauce, crispy bacon, and a juicy burger? I think not! Get ready to elevate your grilling game with this ultimate comfort food experience. This isn’t just any burger; it’s a flavor explosion that will have your taste buds singing.

While the exact origins of the BBQ Bacon Burger are shrouded in delicious mystery, the concept of adding bacon to burgers has been around for decades, evolving alongside America’s love affair with barbecue. The marriage of these two iconic flavors is a testament to our culinary creativity and our desire for bold, satisfying meals. It’s a dish that transcends generations, appearing at backyard cookouts, family gatherings, and even upscale restaurants.

People adore the BBQ Bacon Burger for its symphony of textures and tastes. The sweetness and tang of the barbecue sauce perfectly complement the salty, smoky bacon and the savory beef patty. The crispness of the bacon against the soft bun and juicy burger creates a delightful contrast that keeps you coming back for more. Plus, it’s incredibly customizable! Add your favorite cheese, toppings, and sauces to create a burger masterpiece that’s uniquely yours. So, fire up the grill, gather your ingredients, and let’s make the best BBQ Bacon Burger you’ve ever tasted!

Ingredients:

• For the Burger Patties:
• 2 lbs Ground Beef (80/20 blend recommended for flavor and juiciness)
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire Sauce
• 1 tbsp Smoked Paprika
• 1 tsp Garlic Powder
• 1 tsp Onion Powder
• 1/2 tsp Ground Black Pepper
• 1/2 tsp Salt (or to taste)
• For the BBQ Sauce:
• 1 cup Ketchup
• 1/4 cup Apple Cider Vinegar
• 1/4 cup Brown Sugar (packed)
• 2 tbsp Molasses
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire Sauce
• 1 tsp Smoked Paprika
• 1/2 tsp Garlic Powder
• 1/4 tsp Onion Powder
• 1/4 tsp Cayenne Pepper (optional, for a little kick)
• For the Bacon:
• 1 lb Thick-Cut Bacon
• For the Burger Assembly:
• 6 Burger Buns (Brioche or your favorite)
• 6 slices Cheddar Cheese (or your preferred cheese)
• 1 Red Onion, thinly sliced
• 1 Tomato, sliced
• Lettuce Leaves (Romaine or Iceberg)
• Pickles (optional)
• Mayonnaise (optional)

Preparing the BBQ Sauce:

1. In a medium saucepan, whisk together the ketchup, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, molasses, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper (if using).
2. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
3. Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
4. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly. The sauce will thicken further as it cools. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. If you prefer a sweeter sauce, add a little more brown sugar. If you want more tang, add a splash more apple cider vinegar.
5. Set aside the BBQ sauce. You can store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Cooking the Bacon:

1. Place the bacon strips in a cold skillet. This helps the bacon cook evenly and renders the fat nicely.
2. Turn the heat to medium and cook the bacon, turning occasionally, until it is crispy and golden brown. This usually takes about 8-12 minutes, depending on the thickness of the bacon.
3. Once the bacon is cooked to your liking, remove it from the skillet and place it on a plate lined with paper towels to drain the excess grease.
4. Set the bacon aside. You can crumble some of the bacon for topping if you like!

Preparing the Burger Patties:

1. In a large bowl, gently combine the ground beef, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and salt. Be careful not to overmix the meat, as this can result in tough burgers.
2. Divide the mixture into 6 equal portions.
3. Gently form each portion into a patty, about 3/4 inch thick. Make a slight indentation in the center of each patty with your thumb. This will help prevent the burgers from puffing up in the middle while cooking.
4. Cover the patties with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This will help them hold their shape during cooking.

Cooking the Burger Patties:

You can cook the burger patties on a grill, in a skillet, or under a broiler. I prefer grilling for that smoky BBQ flavor!

Grilling:

1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
2. Lightly oil the grill grates to prevent sticking.
3. Place the burger patties on the grill and cook for 4-5 minutes per side for medium-rare, or longer for your desired level of doneness.
4. During the last minute of cooking, place a slice of cheddar cheese on each patty and let it melt.
5. Remove the burgers from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes before assembling.

Skillet Cooking:

1. Heat a tablespoon of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Once the oil is hot, carefully place the burger patties in the skillet.
3. Cook for 4-5 minutes per side for medium-rare, or longer for your desired level of doneness.
4. During the last minute of cooking, place a slice of cheddar cheese on each patty and let it melt. You can add a tablespoon of water to the skillet and cover it with a lid to help the cheese melt faster.
5. Remove the burgers from the skillet and let them rest for a few minutes before assembling.

Broiling:

1. Preheat your broiler to high.
2. Place the burger patties on a broiler pan.
3. Broil for 4-5 minutes per side for medium-rare, or longer for your desired level of doneness. Keep a close eye on the burgers to prevent burning.
4. During the last minute of cooking, place a slice of cheddar cheese on each patty and let it melt.
5. Remove the burgers from the broiler and let them rest for a few minutes before assembling.

Assembling the BBQ Bacon Burgers:

1. Lightly toast the burger buns. This will prevent them from getting soggy.
2. Spread mayonnaise (if using) on the top and bottom buns.
3. Place lettuce leaves on the bottom bun.
4. Top with a slice of tomato and a few slices of red onion.
5. Place the cheeseburger patty on top of the vegetables.
6. Generously slather the burger patty with the prepared BBQ sauce.
7. Top with 2-3 strips of crispy bacon (or crumbled bacon, if you prefer).
8. Add pickles, if desired.
9. Place the top bun on top and serve immediately.
10. Enjoy your delicious BBQ Bacon Burger!

Conclusion:

So there you have it! This BBQ bacon burger isn’t just another burger recipe; it’s a flavor explosion waiting to happen. The smoky sweetness of the barbecue sauce, the crispy, salty bacon, and the juicy, perfectly cooked patty all come together in a symphony of deliciousness that will leave you craving more. Trust me, once you’ve tasted this, you’ll be adding it to your regular rotation. But why is this BBQ bacon burger a must-try? It’s simple: it’s all about the balance. We’ve carefully crafted this recipe to ensure that every element complements the others. The barbecue sauce isn’t overpowering, the bacon is cooked to crispy perfection, and the patty is seasoned just right. It’s a burger that’s both satisfying and sophisticated, perfect for a casual weeknight dinner or a weekend barbecue with friends. And the best part? It’s incredibly versatile! Feel free to experiment with different types of barbecue sauce to find your perfect match. A tangy Carolina-style sauce would add a zesty kick, while a sweet and smoky Kansas City-style sauce would enhance the overall richness. You could even try making your own homemade barbecue sauce for a truly personalized touch. Looking for serving suggestions? This BBQ bacon burger pairs perfectly with classic sides like crispy french fries, creamy coleslaw, or a refreshing potato salad. For a lighter option, try serving it with a side of grilled corn on the cob or a simple green salad. And don’t forget the drinks! A cold beer, a refreshing lemonade, or even a classic milkshake would be the perfect accompaniment. Want to take your burger game to the next level? Consider adding some extra toppings. Caramelized onions would add a touch of sweetness and depth, while sliced avocado would provide a creamy, healthy boost. A fried egg on top would create a truly decadent experience. The possibilities are endless! And if you’re feeling adventurous, why not try a few variations? Swap out the beef patty for a turkey or chicken patty for a leaner option. Use a pretzel bun instead of a regular bun for a unique twist. Or add a slice of pepper jack cheese for a spicy kick. But no matter how you choose to make it, I’m confident that you’ll love this BBQ bacon burger. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s sure to impress your family and friends. So, what are you waiting for? Head to the kitchen and give this recipe a try! I promise you won’t be disappointed. And when you do, be sure to share your experience with me. I’d love to hear what you think and see your creations. Tag me in your photos on social media and let me know what variations you tried. I’m always looking for new and exciting ways to enjoy this classic dish. Happy grilling, and enjoy your delicious, homemade BBQ bacon burger! I can’t wait to hear about your burger adventures!

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