Juicy BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger: A Backyard Classic

A BBQ bacon cheeseburger is the king of all burgers. It’s loaded with crispy bacon, topped with gooey melted cheese, and slathered with smoky BBQ sauce for a perfect blend of sweet, salty, and savory flavors. Whether you’re hosting a backyard cookout or simply craving a restaurant-style burger at home, this recipe ensures juicy, flavorful patties every time. Serve it with fries or a cold drink, and you’ve got yourself a meal that everyone will love.

Key Information

• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Servings: 4 burgers

Nutritional Information (Per Burger)

• Calories: 700
• Protein: 42g
• Carbohydrates: 38g
• Fat: 45g
• Dietary Preference: Contains dairy and gluten

Ingredients List

For the Burger Patties:

• 1 ½ lbs (680g) ground beef (80/20 blend for juiciness)
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp smoked paprika

Toppings and Assembly:

• 8 slices bacon, cooked until crispy
• 4 slices cheddar or American cheese
• ½ cup BBQ sauce (your favorite brand)
• 4 burger buns (brioche, sesame, or pretzel buns)
• 1 red onion, sliced into rings
• 1 tomato, sliced
• 4 lettuce leaves
• Pickles (optional)

Detailed Method of Preparation

1. Prepare the Bacon

1. Cook the bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy (about 5-7 minutes). Drain on paper towels and set aside.

2. Form the Burger Patties

1. In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika.
2. Divide the mixture into 4 equal portions and gently shape into patties about ¾-inch thick. Make a small indent in the center of each patty with your thumb—this prevents the patties from puffing up as they cook.

3. Grill or Pan-Sear the Burgers

1. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat (around 400-450°F / 200-230°C). Alternatively, heat a cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Grill or sear the patties for 4-5 minutes per side, flipping once, until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C) for well-done or 145°F (63°C) for medium-rare.
3. During the last minute of cooking, place a slice of cheese on each patty to melt.

4. Toast the Buns

1. While the burgers cook, lightly toast the buns on the grill or in a skillet for 1-2 minutes until golden brown.

5. Assemble the BBQ Bacon Cheeseburgers

1. Spread BBQ sauce on the bottom half of each bun.
2. Place a lettuce leaf and slice of tomato on the bottom bun.
3. Add the cheesy burger patty, followed by 2 slices of crispy bacon.
4. Top with red onion rings and additional BBQ sauce. Add pickles if desired.
5. Close the burger with the top bun and serve immediately.

Tips for Culinary Success

• Use 80/20 ground beef: The fat content ensures a juicy burger. Leaner meat can result in dry patties.
• Avoid pressing the patties: Pressing down on the burgers while cooking squeezes out juices.
• Make it spicy: Add jalapeños or use spicy BBQ sauce for a kick.
• Prep ahead: Cook the bacon in advance and store it in the fridge. Reheat just before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What’s the best cheese for a BBQ bacon cheeseburger?

Cheddar, American, or pepper jack are great options as they melt well and add bold flavor.

Can I make these burgers indoors?

Yes! Use a cast-iron skillet or grill pan to sear the patties on the stovetop for a similar result.

How do I prevent the burger from drying out?

Avoid overcooking the patties and use 80/20 ground beef for maximum juiciness. Rest the patties for 2 minutes after cooking to retain moisture.

Can I use turkey or plant-based patties?

Absolutely! Substitute ground turkey or plant-based patties for a healthier or vegetarian option. Adjust the cooking time accordingly.

This BBQ bacon cheeseburger brings together everything you love about classic burgers—juicy patties, crispy bacon, melted cheese, and a touch of smoky BBQ goodness. Whether you’re grilling for a crowd or indulging in a weekend treat, this burger is guaranteed to be a hit. Add your favorite toppings, pair it with fries, and enjoy every bite of this delicious creation!