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

There’s nothing quite like sinking your teeth into a juicy BBQ bacon burger. This recipe combines the smokiness of BBQ sauce, the savory goodness of crispy bacon, and a perfectly grilled beef patty to create an unforgettable flavor experience. Whether it’s a summer cookout or a weeknight dinner, this burger is sure to impress your family and friends.

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.

BBQ Bacon Burger Recipe
Equipment
- bowl
Ingredients
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)
Instructions
- Prepare the Ingredients: Start by gathering all your ingredients. Preheat your grill or stovetop grill pan to medium-high heat.
- 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.
- Cook the Bacon: In a skillet, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove and place on paper towels to drain excess grease.
- 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.
- 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.
- Serve: Plate the burgers and serve immediately with your favorite sides. Enjoy the smoky, savory goodness!
Nutrition
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
- Prepare the Ingredients: Start by gathering all your ingredients. Preheat your grill or stovetop grill pan to medium-high heat.
- 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.
- Cook the Bacon: In a skillet, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove and place on paper towels to drain excess grease.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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
- 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.
- What type of BBQ sauce is best? Choose your favorite BBQ sauce; a sweet and smoky variety complements the flavors well.
- 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.
- What sides pair well with BBQ bacon burgers? Classic sides include coleslaw, potato salad, or grilled corn on the cob.
- 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.

Conclusion
Making the best BBQ bacon burger is easier than you think. With just a few simple ingredients and some cooking techniques, you can create a mouthwatering meal that will have everyone coming back for seconds. Whether you’re firing up the grill or cooking indoors, this recipe is sure to elevate your burger game and leave a lasting impression!