BBQ Bacon Burger Recipe

Smoky, sweet, salty, and just a little messy—in the best way possible—this BBQ Bacon Burger is the kind of meal that turns an ordinary weeknight into a celebration. We’re talking juicy beef patties, crisp smoky bacon, and a rich BBQ sauce that ties it all together in a mouthwatering bite. It’s ridiculously easy to make and comes together faster than you’d expect, making it a weeknight staple you’ll come back to again and again.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Simple: Perfect for busy nights—no complicated steps or fancy equipment needed.
• Flavor-Packed: Between the smoky bacon, tangy BBQ sauce, and savory beef, every bite is a flavor bomb.
• Customizable: This burger is endlessly adaptable. Whether you’re going spicy, cheesy, or piling on the extras, it’s built for personal touches.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Great for family dinners, casual get-togethers, or game nights. Everyone loves a good BBQ burger!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s what you need to bring this incredible BBQ Bacon Burger to life:

• Ground Beef: Choose 80/20 for the perfect balance of flavor and juiciness. Don’t overwork the meat—gentle hands make tender burgers.
• Bacon: Thick-cut is best for that irresistible crunch and deep smoky flavor.
• BBQ Sauce: Use your favorite brand or make your own. A smoky, slightly sweet sauce works beautifully here.
• Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar melts wonderfully and adds a rich, tangy bite.
• Burger Buns: Go for soft brioche or potato rolls—they hold up well and soak in all that BBQ goodness.
• Pickles: For a little tang that balances the richness of the meat and cheese.
• Red Onion: Adds crunch and a mild sharpness. Optional, but recommended.
• Lettuce: Crisp romaine or iceberg adds freshness and texture.
• Butter: Lightly buttering the buns before toasting gives extra flavor and a golden finish.

Variations

• Spicy BBQ Burger: Add pickled jalapeños and a spicy BBQ sauce or a dash of hot sauce.
• Mushroom & Swiss BBQ Burger: Swap cheddar for Swiss cheese and sauté mushrooms in butter for an earthy twist.
• Turkey or Chicken Option: Use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version without sacrificing flavor.
• Vegan Version: Use plant-based burger patties, vegan bacon, and dairy-free cheese. Many BBQ sauces are already vegan-friendly!

How to Make the BBQ Bacon Burger

Step 1: Cook the Bacon

In a skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon until crisp. Set it on paper towels to drain excess grease. Don’t toss the bacon fat—it’s liquid gold for flavor if you want to toast your buns in it!

Step 2: Shape and Season the Patties

Form your ground beef into patties, slightly larger than your buns. Season generously with salt and pepper on both sides.

Step 3: Grill or Pan-Sear the Patties

Cook the patties over medium-high heat for about 3–4 minutes per side, depending on thickness and your preferred doneness. In the final minute of cooking, top with cheese and cover to melt.

Step 4: Toast the Buns

Butter the insides of your buns and toast them in a skillet or on the grill until golden brown. This step is small but adds serious flavor and texture.

Step 5: Assemble the Burgers

Spread BBQ sauce on the bottom bun, layer with lettuce, the cheesy burger patty, crispy bacon, onion, and pickles. Add an extra dollop of BBQ sauce if you’re feeling bold, then top with the bun.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

• Don’t Press the Patties: Pressing burgers while they cook squeezes out flavorful juices—let them sizzle undisturbed.
• Let the Cheese Melt Properly: Cover the pan or close the grill lid when adding cheese so it melts perfectly over the patty.
• Rest Before Assembling: Give the burgers a couple of minutes to rest after cooking—this keeps them juicy.
• Use Cold Bacon: Cold bacon cooks up crispier and is easier to handle when layering into your burger.

How to Serve

A BBQ Bacon Burger begs for simple but satisfying sides:

Classic Pairings:

• French Fries: Go traditional with crispy fries or mix it up with sweet potato fries.
• Coleslaw: Creamy or vinegar-based, slaw adds crunch and contrast to the rich burger.
• Corn on the Cob: Brushed with butter and sprinkled with paprika or chili powder.

Sauces & Add-Ons:

• Extra BBQ sauce on the side for dipping.
• A garlic aioli or chipotle mayo adds another flavor layer.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Wrap cooked patties and bacon separately in foil or place them in airtight containers. Refrigerate for up to 3 days.

Freezing

Freeze uncooked patties with parchment paper between them. Cooked patties can also be frozen and reheated later. Bacon freezes well too!

Reheating

Reheat patties in a skillet over medium heat or in a 350°F oven until warmed through. Avoid the microwave—it can make the patty rubbery and the bacon soggy.

FAQs

Can I cook the burgers on the grill instead of a skillet?
Absolutely! Grilling gives the patties an extra smoky flavor that works beautifully with the BBQ sauce and bacon. Just be sure your grill is hot and well-oiled to prevent sticking.

What’s the best cheese to use for a BBQ Bacon Burger?
Sharp cheddar is classic, but pepper jack adds spice, and smoked gouda plays well with the BBQ notes. Go with what you love.

How do I keep the burger from falling apart?
Use good quality ground beef with enough fat (80/20 is ideal), don’t overwork the meat, and resist flipping it too often during cooking.

Can I make this burger gluten-free?
Yes! Just use gluten-free buns and make sure your BBQ sauce is gluten-free (many are, but always check the label).

Final Thoughts

This BBQ Bacon Burger is the kind of meal that turns an average night into something special without much effort. It’s bold, comforting, and totally satisfying. Whether you’re grilling on the patio or cooking on the stovetop, this recipe delivers that unbeatable combo of smoky, savory, and sweet in every bite. Try it once, and you’ll be hooked—promise.

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