Ultimate Homemade BBQ Bacon Burgers: Juicy, Smoky, and Irresistibly Delicious
Prepare for a culinary adventure with these incredible BBQ Bacon Burgers, where the tangy sweetness of barbecue sauce meets succulent, perfectly seasoned burger patties and crisp, smoky bacon. Nestled between a perfectly toasted bun, each bite promises an explosion of flavor and texture that is utterly irresistible. These aren’t just burgers; they’re an experience, designed to be piled high with your favorite toppings for a truly unforgettable meal that’s worth every deliciously messy finger and face.
Why This BBQ Bacon Burger Recipe is a Must-Try
There’s a reason why BBQ bacon burgers hold a special place in the hearts of burger enthusiasts – they simply work. This recipe elevates the classic by focusing on depth of flavor and perfect texture, making it an ideal choice whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue, looking for a crowd-pleasing party dish, or simply craving an easy yet satisfying weeknight dinner. What sets this recipe apart is the meticulously crafted seasoning blend for the burger patties. We don’t just stop at salt and pepper; our patties are generously rubbed with a harmonious mix of aromatic garlic powder, sweet brown sugar, a hint of smoky chili powder, a dash of zesty hot sauce, and a touch of liquid smoke. This ensures a complex, savory, and slightly spicy flavor profile that permeates every single bite, truly making these homemade burgers an explosion for your taste buds.
Beyond the perfectly seasoned patty, the magic continues with the thoughtful addition of toppings. Imagine tender, caramelized red onions, sautéed in the very grease from the crispy bacon, adding a subtle sweetness and depth. Juicy, ripe tomato slices provide a fresh contrast, while the star ingredient, crisp, salty bacon, brings that irresistible smoky crunch. Drizzled generously with your favorite barbecue sauce, these burgers are so enticing, your guests will be devouring them faster than you can even think about serving up the side dishes. This recipe isn’t just about assembling ingredients; it’s about creating a symphony of flavors and textures that will have everyone asking for seconds. Its versatility also means you can customize it endlessly, catering to all preferences, guaranteeing a delicious outcome every time.
Essential Ingredients for Your Ultimate BBQ Bacon Burgers
Crafting the perfect BBQ Bacon Burger starts with selecting high-quality ingredients. Below is a detailed list of what you’ll need, along with insights into choosing the best options for maximum flavor and juiciness. For exact measurements and a printable version of the full recipe, please refer to the recipe card at the end of this post.
Ingredient Information and Smart Substitutions
FOR THE BURGER PATTIES: The foundation of any great burger is the meat. We highly recommend using 85/15 ground beef for our burger patties. This specific lean-to-fat ratio (85% lean, 15% fat) provides the ideal balance, ensuring your burgers remain incredibly juicy, tender, and flavorful even after grilling. The fat content renders down during cooking, keeping the patty moist and preventing it from drying out. While 80/20 ground beef is also an acceptable option and will result in a very juicy burger, 85/15 offers a slightly leaner profile without sacrificing moisture. If you prefer to use ground sirloin, be aware that it is typically much leaner (around 90/10 or 92/8), which can lead to a drier texture when cooked. If using a leaner ground meat, consider adding a tablespoon of olive oil or a bit of shredded butter to the mixture before forming patties to help retain moisture.
FOR THE SEASONING: Our unique seasoning blend is key to these burgers’ distinctive taste. You’ll need garlic powder, brown sugar, chili powder, hot sauce, and liquid smoke. The garlic powder provides an aromatic base, brown sugar adds a touch of sweetness that caramelizes beautifully, chili powder brings a subtle smoky heat, hot sauce provides a kick, and liquid smoke enhances the overall barbecue flavor. Feel free to adjust the amounts to your personal preference. For a spicier burger, increase the hot sauce and chili powder. For a sweeter profile, add a bit more brown sugar. If you don’t have liquid smoke, you can omit it, but it does contribute significantly to the authentic BBQ taste.
FOR THE BACON: We use 12 ounces of bacon, seasoned with Montreal steak seasoning. The seasoning adds another layer of robust flavor to the crispy bacon. You can use any thick-cut or regular-cut bacon you prefer. If Montreal steak seasoning isn’t available, a blend of coarse salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika will work well.
FOR THE TOPPINGS: This is where you can truly personalize your BBQ Bacon Burger! While our recommended toppings include tender, sautéed red onion rings (cooked in bacon grease for extra flavor), fresh tomato slices, and melted cheddar cheese, the possibilities are endless. Other fantastic additions include:
- Crisp Lettuce: Adds a refreshing crunch and color.
- Pickle Slices: Provides a tangy contrast that cuts through the richness.
- Crispy Fried Onions: For an extra layer of savory crunch, either homemade or store-bought. These are a game-changer!
- Onion Rings: A classic burger topping that adds texture and flavor. You can make your own onion rings or use frozen ones.
- Different Cheeses: Substitute cheddar with pepper jack for a spicy kick, American for classic meltiness, or Monterey jack for a mild, creamy texture.
- Avocado or Guacamole: For a creamy, rich addition.
- Jalapeños: Fresh or pickled, for those who love extra heat.
- Fried Egg: A runny yolk adds incredible richness to any burger.
The beauty of this recipe is its flexibility. You can customize it to suit any dietary preference or taste bud. If you prefer a lighter onion flavor, you can leave the red onion raw instead of sautéing them in bacon grease. Don’t forget a generous dollop of your favorite bottled barbecue sauce – it ties all the flavors together beautifully.
How to Assemble Your Perfect BBQ Bacon Burgers
These step-by-step photos and instructions are here to help you visualize how to make this recipe. You can Jump to Recipe to get the printable version of this recipe, complete with measurements and detailed instructions at the bottom.
- Begin by preheating your grill to a consistent 400°F (200°C). This ensures even cooking and perfect grill marks on your patties.
- Place the ground beef into a large mixing bowl, preparing it for seasoning.
- In a separate, small bowl, combine the garlic powder, brown sugar, and chili powder. Donning a pair of gloved hands, gently mix these dry ingredients together with your fingers until well combined. Then, add this flavorful seasoning blend evenly over the ground beef.
- Next, incorporate the liquid smoke and hot sauce into the ground beef. Continue using your gloved hands to thoroughly combine all the ingredients until everything is uniformly distributed throughout the meat. This ensures every part of your burger patty is infused with flavor.
- Divide the seasoned meat into four equal portions. Carefully form each portion into a patty, approximately ¾-inch thick. A crucial step for perfectly shaped burgers is to use your thumb or finger to create a shallow indent in the center of each patty.
EXPERT TIP: Creating an indent in the center of each hamburger patty is a professional trick that prevents the burger from puffing up in the middle during cooking. This ensures your patties remain flat and even, allowing for a better bun-to-burger ratio and more consistent cooking.
- Season your bacon with Montreal steak seasoning to taste. Cook the bacon in a skillet or on a flat top grill over medium-high heat until it reaches your desired level of crispness. Once cooked, transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess grease. This ensures your bacon is perfectly crispy, not greasy.
- Utilize the delicious bacon grease! In the same skillet or on the flat top grill, cook the sliced red onion rings in the residual bacon fat until they become tender and slightly caramelized. This adds an incredible depth of flavor to your onions that complements the burger perfectly.
- Place the prepared burger patties on the preheated grill, ensuring the indented side faces upwards. Cook for approximately 5 minutes on the first side to achieve a beautiful sear and initial cook. Then, carefully flip the burgers and cook for an additional 5 minutes, or until they reach your preferred level of doneness (e.g., medium-rare, medium, well-done).
- For perfectly melted cheese, place your slices of cheddar cheese (or preferred cheese) on top of each burger patty a couple of minutes before the burgers are finished cooking and ready to be removed from the grill. Close the grill lid briefly to help the cheese melt quickly and evenly.
- Once the burgers are done, remove them from the grill. Take advantage of the residual heat by toasting the hamburger buns directly on the grill grates for about 1-2 minutes, or until they are lightly golden and warmed through. This adds texture and prevents the buns from getting soggy.
- Finally, it’s time to assemble your masterpieces! Layer your juicy, cheesy burger patties with the crispy bacon, tender caramelized onions, and any other favorite condiments and toppings onto the toasted buns. A generous amount of barbecue sauce is essential to complete this flavor-packed burger. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Frequently Asked Questions & Expert Tips for Perfect Burgers
For the best flavor and texture, BBQ bacon burgers are truly best enjoyed fresh off the grill. However, if you find yourself with leftovers, you can absolutely store them. The key is to store the cooked burger patties and bacon separately from the buns and any wet toppings like tomato or lettuce. Place the cooled patties in an airtight container and refrigerate for 3-4 days. To reheat, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and warm the patties for about 10 minutes or less, until heated through. Alternatively, a skillet or air fryer can also provide a good reheat. Once warmed, assemble your burger with fresh toasted buns and toppings to prevent sogginess and ensure a delightful experience.
Yes, you can! To save time, you can prepare the seasoned burger patties up to 24 hours in advance. Form the patties, create the indent, and then place them on a plate or baking sheet separated by parchment paper. Cover tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully and makes grilling day even easier.
No grill? No problem! These BBQ bacon burgers can be cooked to perfection on a stovetop. Heat a large cast-iron skillet or a heavy-bottomed pan over medium-high heat. Add a tablespoon of oil (if your patties are leaner) and cook the patties for about 4-6 minutes per side, or until your desired doneness is reached. You can also use an indoor electric grill or grill pan. The bacon and onions can be cooked in the same skillet before or after the burgers.
Several factors contribute to a juicy burger. Firstly, using ground beef with adequate fat content (85/15 or 80/20) is crucial. Secondly, avoid overworking the meat when mixing seasonings and forming patties, as this can lead to a tough texture. Thirdly, the indent in the center helps maintain an even thickness, promoting uniform cooking and preventing the center from puffing up and drying out. Lastly, cook the burgers to your desired internal temperature without overcooking them. A meat thermometer is your best friend here, aiming for 160°F (71°C) for well-done, or slightly less for medium-rare to medium (if safe handling practices are observed).
Creative Serving Suggestions for Your BBQ Bacon Burgers
While these BBQ bacon burgers are absolutely phenomenal on their own with classic toppings like melty cheddar cheese, sweet caramelized red onion, and thick-sliced tomato, don’t be afraid to get creative! The beauty of a burger lies in its versatility. Elevate your burger experience with additional toppings that add layers of flavor and texture:
- Crispy Onion Rings or Fried Onions: As mentioned, these are a popular and highly recommended addition. They provide a delightful crunch and extra savory onion flavor. Consider making air fryer onion rings for a healthier, yet still crispy, option.
- Creamy Coleslaw: A dollop of creamy coleslaw on top of your burger adds freshness and a delightful tang that complements the rich flavors.
- Sliced Avocado or Guacamole: For a creamy, cool element that adds healthy fats and a smooth texture.
- Pickled Jalapeños or Banana Peppers: If you enjoy a bit of heat and acidity, these are fantastic for cutting through the richness.
- Smoked Gouda or Provolone: Experiment with different cheeses to alter the flavor profile. Smoked Gouda adds another layer of smoky goodness, while provolone offers a milder, meltier experience.
- Crispy Lettuce and Fresh Pickles: Sometimes, the simple additions are the best. Fresh, crisp lettuce and tangy pickle slices are a refreshing counterpoint to the savory burger.
No burger is complete without the perfect sidekick! Here are some classic and creative ideas to serve alongside your BBQ Bacon Burgers:
- Classic Fries: Golden crispy french fries or sweet potato fries are always a winner.
- Tater Tots: A fun and nostalgic option that pairs wonderfully with burgers.
- Baked Beans: A hearty, sweet, and savory side that perfectly complements barbecue flavors.
- Coleslaw or Potato Salad: Creamy and refreshing, these sides offer a nice contrast to the hot burger.
- Jalapeño Poppers: For an extra spicy kick and a burst of cheesy goodness.
- Corn on the Cob: Especially in summer, grilled corn is an excellent, sweet addition.
- Garden Salad: A light, fresh salad can balance out the richness of the burger.
The possibilities truly are endless when it comes to customizing and pairing your BBQ Bacon Burgers. Let your imagination run wild and create a meal that truly satisfies!
Discover More Delicious Burger Recipes
If you’ve enjoyed these BBQ Bacon Burgers, you might be keen to explore other exciting burger creations. Here are some more fantastic recipes to inspire your next meal:
- Patty Melt
- Smash Burger
- Cheeseburger Sliders
- Bacon Cheeseburger Meatballs
- Buffalo Burger
- Taco Burger
I absolutely adore cooking and baking, and it’s my passion to share these culinary adventures with all of you! To make sure you never miss a new recipe, I offer a convenient newsletter delivered directly to your inbox every time a fresh post goes live. Simply subscribe here and start receiving your free daily recipes, bringing new inspiration to your kitchen!
BBQ Bacon Burgers
IMPORTANT – There are often Frequently Asked Questions within the blog post that you may find helpful. Simply scroll back up to read them!
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Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef 85/15, for juicy patties
- 1 Tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 Tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 Tablespoon chili powder
- 1 Tablespoon hot sauce
- 1 Tablespoon liquid smoke
- 12 ounces bacon
- Montreal steak seasoning to taste, for bacon
- ½ red onion sliced into rings
- 4 slices cheddar cheese
- 4 hamburger buns
- bottled barbecue sauce to taste, for serving
Optional Toppings
- tomato sliced
- pickles
- lettuce
- Crispy fried onions for extra crunch
- Onion rings homemade or frozen
- Avocado slices or guacamole for creaminess
Things You’ll Need
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Grill
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Large skillet or flat top grill plate
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Mixing bowls
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Vinyl gloves
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Meat thermometer (optional, for perfect doneness)
Chef’s Notes & Pro Tips
- The nutrition facts listed below do not include barbecue sauce. Please refer to the back of the individual bottle you choose for accurate serving size and nutritional information, as these can vary widely.
- While we use a grill for these burgers, they can be equally delicious cooked in a large skillet on your stovetop or on an indoor electric grill. Adjust cooking times as needed for your specific appliance.
- If you’re grilling and notice the flame flaring up due to dripping fat, lightly mist it with a spray bottle of water. This helps to control flare-ups without extinguishing the flames entirely.
- For the juiciest burger patties, we highly recommend using 85/15 ground beef. The fat content is crucial for keeping the burgers tender and moist during cooking. 80/20 is also a good option. Using leaner ground sirloin can result in a drier burger.
- Toppings are all about personal preference! Our top suggestions are sautéed red onion (cooked in bacon grease for extra flavor), fresh tomato slices, and cheddar cheese, along with the essential barbecue sauce. However, feel free to customize with fresh lettuce, tangy pickles, or add a delightful crunch with crispy fried onions or onion rings. You can easily substitute cheddar cheese with pepper jack for a kick, or American or Monterey jack for a different creamy texture. If you prefer a milder, sharper onion taste, serving the red onion raw instead of sautéed is a great alternative.
- For best results, avoid overworking the ground beef when mixing and forming patties. Over-mixing can lead to tough burgers. Mix just until ingredients are combined.
Instructions
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Preheat your grill to 400°F (200°C).
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Place the ground beef into a large mixing bowl.
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In a small bowl, combine garlic powder, brown sugar, and chili powder. Using gloved hands, combine these dry ingredients with your fingers. Add this seasoning mixture to the ground beef.
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Add liquid smoke and hot sauce to the ground beef. Use gloved hands to thoroughly combine everything together. Divide the meat into 4 equal pieces and form them into patties. Use your finger to create a shallow indent in the center of each patty.
TIP – Creating an indent in the center of each hamburger patty helps prevent the burger from puffing up, ensuring an even cook.
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Season the bacon with Montreal steak seasoning and cook it in a skillet or on a flat top grill until crisp. Remove the cooked bacon to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess fat.
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Cook the sliced red onion rings in the residual bacon grease in the same skillet or on the flat top grill until they are tender and caramelized.
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Place the burger patties on the preheated grill, indent side up. Cook for 5 minutes on the first side. Flip them over and cook for an additional 5 minutes, or until your desired doneness is reached.
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Add cheese slices on top of the burger patties a couple of minutes before they are ready to be removed from the grill, allowing the cheese to melt perfectly.
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After removing the cooked burgers, toast the hamburger buns on the grill grates for 1-2 minutes until lightly golden and warm.
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Assemble your delicious BBQ bacon burgers with the cheesy patties, crispy bacon, caramelized onions, and your favorite condiments and toppings. Don’t forget a generous amount of barbecue sauce! Serve immediately and enjoy.
Nutrition Information
The recipes on this blog are tested with a conventional gas oven and gas stovetop. It’s important to note that some ovens, especially as they age, can cook and bake inconsistently. Using an inexpensive oven thermometer can assure you that your oven is truly heating to the proper temperature. If you use a toaster oven or countertop oven, please keep in mind that they may not distribute heat the same as a conventional full sized oven and you may need to adjust your cooking/baking times. In the case of recipes made with a pressure cooker, air fryer, slow cooker, or other appliance, a link to the appliances we use is listed within each respective recipe. For baking recipes where measurements are given by weight, please note that results may not be the same if cups are used instead, and we can’t guarantee success with that method.