The Best BBQ Bacon Burger Recipe: Smoky, Savory, and Satisfying

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Let’s talk burgers — not just any burgers, but the kind that makes your mouth water before you even take a bite. You know the ones: perfectly charred patties slathered in smoky BBQ sauce, topped with crispy bacon, gooey cheese, and all the fixings.

Enter: the BBQ Bacon Burger . This isn’t just a burger; it’s an experience. A celebration of smoky, savory, and slightly sweet flavors piled high on a toasted bun. Whether you’re hosting a backyard cookout, craving a weekend indulgence, or just want to elevate your burger game, this recipe is about to become your new favorite.

So grab your spatula, fire up the grill, and get ready to sink your teeth into the ultimate BBQ Bacon Burger. Trust me, your taste buds are already cheering..

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Perfect Pairing: Serve this BBQ bacon burger with a side of crispy fries or a fresh coleslaw for a well-rounded meal that’s both satisfying and delicious.

Occasions to Serve: Perfect for backyard barbecues, game day gatherings, or simply a delightful dinner at home. This burger is versatile enough to be the star of any meal.

Ingredients

For the burgers:

• 1 ½ lbs ground beef (80/20 for juiciness)
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• ½ tsp smoked paprika
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce

Toppings:

• 8 slices thick-cut bacon
• 4 slices cheddar cheese (or your favorite cheese)
• ½ cup BBQ sauce (use your favorite brand or homemade)
• 4 burger buns (brioche or potato buns work great)
• Optional: lettuce, tomato slices, red onion, pickles

For toasting buns:

• 1 tbsp butter

Instructions

1. Prep the Patties
   In a bowl, combine ground beef, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Gently mix and form into 4 equal patties. Press a small indent in the center of each patty to prevent puffing.
2. Cook the Bacon
   In a skillet or oven, cook bacon until crispy. Drain on paper towels.
3. Grill or Pan-Fry the Burgers
   Heat a grill or skillet over medium-high heat. Cook patties for 3–4 minutes per side for medium, flipping once. In the last minute, place a cheese slice on each patty and cover to melt.
4. Toast the Buns
   Spread butter on the cut sides of each bun and toast on a skillet or grill until golden.
5. Assemble the Burgers
   On the bottom bun, layer lettuce (if using), the cheeseburger patty, 2 slices of bacon, a generous spoonful of BBQ sauce, and any extra toppings. Finish with the top bun.

Recipe Overview

• Servings: 4 burgers
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Calories: Approximately 600 calories per burger

Nutritional Information

• Calories: 600
• Protein: 35g
• Carbohydrates: 36g
• Fat: 35g
• Sodium: 950mg
• Sugar: 8g

Ingredients List

For the Burger Patties

• 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend for juiciness)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 4 slices of cheddar cheese

For the Toppings

• 4 slices of crispy bacon
• 1/2 cup BBQ sauce
• 4 hamburger buns
• Lettuce leaves
• Tomato slices
• Pickles (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Ingredients: Start by gathering all your ingredients. Preheat your grill or stovetop grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Season the Beef: In a bowl, combine the ground beef with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Mix gently to avoid overworking the meat, then form into 4 equal patties.
3. Cook the Bacon: In a skillet, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove and place on paper towels to drain excess grease.
4. Grill the Patties: Place the burger patties on the grill. Cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side for medium doneness. In the last minute of cooking, place a slice of cheddar cheese on each patty to melt.
5. Assemble the Burgers: Place the cooked patties on the bottom halves of the buns. Top with crispy bacon, lettuce, tomato slices, and a generous drizzle of BBQ sauce. Add pickles if desired, then cover with the top bun.
6. Serve: Plate the burgers and serve immediately with your favorite sides. Enjoy the smoky, savory goodness!

Tips for Perfect BBQ Bacon Burgers

• Choose the Right Beef: Using an 80/20 blend of ground beef ensures a juicy burger. Leaner beef may result in a dry patty.
• Don’t Overcook: Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. Aim for 160°F for medium burgers.
• Customize Your Toppings: Feel free to add avocado, onion rings, or your favorite sauces to personalize your burger.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

• Burger Sticking to the Grill: Make sure the grill is preheated and lightly oiled before placing the patties on it.
• Dry Burgers: Avoid pressing down on the patties while they cook, as this releases juices and leads to dryness.
• Uneven Cooking: Ensure the patties are of uniform thickness for even cooking throughout.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use turkey or chicken for the patties? Yes, feel free to substitute ground turkey or chicken, but be sure to add moisture with ingredients like grated onion or BBQ sauce.
2. What type of BBQ sauce is best? Choose your favorite BBQ sauce; a sweet and smoky variety complements the flavors well.
3. Can I prepare the patties in advance? Yes, you can form the patties ahead of time and store them covered in the refrigerator until ready to grill.
4. What sides pair well with BBQ bacon burgers? Classic sides include coleslaw, potato salad, or grilled corn on the cob.
5. Can I make these burgers in the oven? Yes, you can bake the patties at 375°F for about 20 minutes, flipping halfway through, and add cheese during the last few minutes of baking.

Reader Favorites

Samantha K.:
Hands down the best burger I’ve ever made at home! The BBQ sauce and crispy bacon combo is unreal. My husband already asked when I’m making it again!

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Tyler J.:
Made these last weekend on the grill—absolutely amazing. Juicy, smoky, cheesy, and that bacon crunch? Next level. Better than most restaurant burgers!

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Hannah P.:
I used brioche buns and sharp cheddar… wow! The flavors are insane. My kids devoured them. This recipe is a keeper for sure!

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Chris D.:
So simple but SO good. I added caramelized onions and it took it to another level. These BBQ bacon burgers are officially in our summer cookout rotation.

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The Origins of the BBQ Bacon Burger – A Modern Twist on a Classic 🍔📜

The Humble Beginnings of Burgers

The hamburger, as we know it today, has humble beginnings rooted in the late 19th century. While its exact origins are debated, many credit the city of Hamburg, Germany, for popularizing the concept of minced meat patties. German immigrants brought this idea to America, where it evolved into the iconic dish we adore today.

The Rise of BBQ Culture

Barbecue, on the other hand, has deep roots in American history, particularly in the South. From slow-cooked meats to smoky sauces, BBQ culture has long been celebrated for its bold flavors and communal appeal. Over time, these two culinary traditions—burgers and BBQ—merged to create dishes like the BBQ Bacon Burger , which combines the best of both worlds.

Why Bacon Makes Everything Better

Bacon has been a beloved ingredient for centuries, prized for its salty, smoky crunch. When paired with juicy burgers and tangy BBQ sauce, it creates a trifecta of flavors that’s hard to resist. The addition of melted cheese and caramelized onions takes it to the next level, making this burger a true indulgence.

A Global Sensation

Today, the BBQ Bacon Burger is enjoyed worldwide, with endless variations to suit local tastes. Whether you’re biting into a classic version at a roadside diner or enjoying a gourmet rendition at a fancy restaurant, this burger continues to captivate our taste buds.

So the next time you dig into this BBQ Bacon Burger , take a moment to appreciate its rich history. From German immigrants to Southern pitmasters, this dish is a testament to the creativity and adaptability of food culture.

Conclusion

There’s something magical about biting into a perfectly crafted burger — especially one as flavorful and satisfying as the BBQ Bacon Burger . Between the smoky char of the patty, the crispiness of the bacon, the gooeyness of the cheese, and the tang of BBQ sauce, every bite feels like a party in your mouth.

Whether you’re grilling for a crowd, treating yourself to a solo dinner, or just craving something hearty and delicious, this burger is guaranteed to impress. It’s easy enough for a weeknight but special enough for a celebration.

So grab your ingredients, fire up the grill, and get ready to enjoy one of the best burgers you’ve ever tasted. Don’t forget to rate it ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ and share your creations in the comments below — I’d love to hear how it turned out!

Happy grilling and even happier eating! 🍔