Ah, BBQ Bacon Cheeseburgers! Just saying the name makes my mouth water! This recipe isn’t just a meal; it’s an experience that brings back memories of summer barbecues, laughter with friends, and the heavenly aroma of sizzling meat on the grill. I still remember the first time I tried a BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger at a friend’s cookout. It was love at first bite! The combination of smoky BBQ sauce, crispy bacon, and melty cheese is pure comfort food, and trust me, you won’t want to miss this one!
I love making these burgers for gatherings because they’re easy to whip up and always a crowd-pleaser. There’s something about the crunch of the bacon contrasted with the juicy burger that makes my taste buds dance. Whether it’s a sunny afternoon in the backyard or a cozy dinner at home, these BBQ Bacon Cheeseburgers are sure to impress. So let’s get right into how to make these delightful treats!
What’s in BBQ Bacon Cheeseburgers?
Ground Beef: This is the star of the show! I typically go for 80/20 ground beef for that perfect balance of flavor and juiciness. If you’re feeling adventurous, leaner blends can work too, just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Bacon: Crispy, smoky, and oh-so-delicious! I usually prefer thick-cut bacon for extra crunch. Pro tip: cook it in the oven for even results – no more bacon splatters on the stove!
BBQ Sauce: This is where the magic happens! Choose your favorite BBQ sauce; I’m a sucker for a sweet and smoky variant. You can even make your own if you’re feeling fancy!
Cheese: Melted cheese is a must! Cheddar is a classic, but feel free to experiment with pepper jack for a kick or gouda for a creamier texture.
Burger Buns: You can’t forget the buns! I recommend brioche or pretzel buns for that rich flavor and soft bite.
Toppings: Lettuce, tomato, pickles, and onions are all great additions. I love a little crunch with fresh greens and some tartness from pickles!
Is BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Good for You?
Now, I’m not going to pretend these cheeseburgers are health food—after all, we are talking about bacon and cheese here! However, everything in moderation, right?
Ground Beef: Packed with protein and iron, it’s great for energy. Just watch the portions and choose leaner cuts to keep things on the healthier side.
Bacon: While delicious, it’s quite high in sodium and fat, so perhaps one or two slices per burger instead of loading it up might be a better balance.
BBQ Sauce: It can be high in sugar, but there are plenty of low-sugar options out there if you’re mindful of your intake.
Overall, indulge occasionally, and when you treat yourself to these BBQ Bacon Cheeseburgers, enjoy every single bite!
Ingredients
– 1 pound ground beef (80/20 blend preferred)
– 6 slices thick-cut bacon
– 1 cup BBQ sauce (your choice)
– 4 slices cheddar cheese (or cheese of your choice)
– 4 burger buns (brioche or pretzel)
– Lettuce leaves
– Sliced tomatoes
– Pickles
– Sliced onions
– Salt and pepper to taste
*Serves: 4*
How to Make BBQ Bacon Cheeseburgers?
1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
2. While the grill is heating, cook the bacon. I recommend laying it on a baking sheet and cooking it in the oven at 400°F for about 15-20 minutes until crispy. Drain on paper towels and set aside.
3. In a bowl, divide the ground beef into 4 equal portions and shape each into a patty. Make a small indent in the center to prevent puffing. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Grill the patties for about 4-5 minutes on one side, then flip them over.
5. Brush some BBQ sauce on each patty while it cooks for an additional 4-5 minutes.
6. In the last minute of cooking, place a slice of cheese on each patty to melt.
7. Toast the burger buns on the grill until golden brown.
8. Assemble your burger: Place the lettuce, tomato, and onion on the bottom bun, add the cheeseburger, pile on the bacon, drizzle with more BBQ sauce, and top with pickles or any other toppings you love. Finish with the top bun.
Garnish Your Burger Adventure!
Here’s where you can get creative! Consider adding other toppings like jalapeños for spice, avocado for creaminess, or even a fried egg on top for an extra indulgent bite. Pair your BBQ Bacon Cheeseburgers with crispy fries or a fresh coleslaw for a complete meal. I love serving them at parties alongside a cold drink and some great music!
I truly hope you give this BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger recipe a try! It’s all about sharing good food and creating wonderful memories. Let me know how yours turn out—I can’t wait to hear about your delicious burgers and all the fun you had making them!