Description
Ultimate Bacon Cheeseburger with Caramelized Onions
This mouthwatering burger is loaded with crispy bacon, gooey cheddar cheese, and sweet caramelized onions, all packed between a soft, toasted brioche bun. Perfect for burger lovers!
Ingredients:
For the Burger Patties:
1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend)
Salt & freshly ground black pepper
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
For the Toppings:
6 slices of bacon
4 slices of cheddar cheese
1 large onion, thinly sliced
1 tbsp butter
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp sugar (optional, for caramelizing onions)
For the Assembly:
4 brioche buns
Butter (for toasting the buns)
Lettuce, tomato, or pickles (optional)
Instructions:
Step 1: Prep the Onions
Heat butter and olive oil in a skillet over medium-low heat.
Add sliced onions and cook for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until soft and golden brown.
For extra sweetness, sprinkle a pinch of sugar halfway through cooking.
Step 2: Cook the Bacon
Cook bacon in a skillet until crispy. Place on a paper towel to drain.
Step 3: Make the Burger Patties
Divide the ground beef into 4 equal portions and shape into patties.
Season both sides with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
Heat a grill or skillet over medium-high heat and cook the patties for 3-4 minutes per side.
During the last minute of cooking, place a slice of cheddar cheese on each patty to melt.
Step 4: Toast the Buns
Spread butter on the insides of the brioche buns and toast in a skillet until golden brown.
Step 5: Assemble the Burger
Start with the bottom bun. Add the cheesy patty, caramelized onions, crispy bacon, and any optional toppings (lettuce, tomato, etc.).
Finish with the top bun and serve immediately.
Serving Suggestion:
Pair with crispy fries or onion rings and a cold drink. This burger is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser!
Step-by-Step Guide
For perfect results, follow this detailed sequence. First, begin caramelizing your onions, as they take the longest. While they cook, prepare your bacon. Once the bacon is done, use the same skillet (with some reserved bacon fat, if desired) to cook your burger patties. This builds flavor. Shape the patties gently, making a slight indentation in the center of each to prevent puffing up. Toast the buns in the last few minutes. Assemble immediately while everything is hot for the best texture and melt.
Serving Suggestions
This hearty burger pairs perfectly with classic sides like seasoned curly fries, beer-battered onion rings, or a simple side salad. For sauces, consider a garlic aioli, chipotle mayo, or a classic burger sauce. A cold craft beer, milkshake, or iced tea completes the meal. For a cookout spread, offer a build-your-own burger bar with extra toppings like avocado, sautéed mushrooms, or different cheese varieties.
How-to Summary
To summarize: caramelize onions low and slow. Cook bacon until crisp. Gently form seasoned beef patties and cook to your preferred doneness, adding cheese at the last minute. Toast buttered brioche buns. Layer the burger starting with the bottom bun, then the patty, onions, bacon, and optional fresh veggies. Serve hot.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of ground beef?
Yes, but an 80/20 blend (80% lean, 20% fat) is ideal for juicy, flavorful patties. Leaner blends can result in a drier burger.
How do I know when the burger is cooked safely?
Use a meat thermometer. For medium, aim for 160°F (71°C). The patty should be firm with clear juices running.
Can I prepare the caramelized onions ahead of time?
Absolutely. They can be made 3-4 days in advance and stored in the fridge, or frozen for months. Reheat gently before using.
What’s the best way to toast the buns?
A skillet or griddle with butter gives the best, even toast. You can also use a toaster or broiler, but watch closely to avoid burning.
My cheese isn’t melting properly. What can I do?
Cover the skillet with a lid for the last 30-60 seconds of cooking. This traps steam and helps melt the cheese completely.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overworking the meat: Handle the ground beef minimally when forming patties to avoid a tough, dense texture.
- Rushing the onions: Cooking onions over too high a heat will fry or burn them, not caramelize them. Patience is key.
- Pressing down on patties: Avoid flattening the patties with a spatula while cooking, as this squeezes out precious juices.
- Using cold meat: Let the shaped patties sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes before cooking for more even cooking.
- Soggy buns: Ensure your toasted buns are the last component prepared and assemble the burger just before serving.
Conclusion
Mastering the ultimate bacon cheeseburger is about quality ingredients and technique. The synergy of the juicy patty, sharp cheddar, smoky bacon, and sweet onions creates an unforgettable homemade burger experience. By following this guide and avoiding common pitfalls, you can consistently create a restaurant-quality burger that will impress any guest. Fire up the skillet and enjoy the delicious rewards.