There’s nothing quite like the joy of biting into a juicy burger, but when you elevate it with a homemade Bacon Onion Balsamic Jam, you’re embarking on a flavor journey that will transform your weeknight dinners into gourmet experiences. Picture this: sizzling bacon rendering its smoky goodness, infusing every bite with delectable umami, while caramelized onions add a sweet depth, harmonizing beautifully with the tangy balsamic.
I created this recipe during a summer cookout, where I was determined to impress friends and family, and it quickly became the star of the show. These Bacon Burgers are not just a meal; they’re a celebration of flavors that come together effortlessly, perfect for grill enthusiasts and busy home cooks alike. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or simply indulging on a cozy night in, this dish promises to satisfy cravings and leave everyone coming back for more. Let’s dive into the recipe that will transform the way you think about burgers!
Why are Bacon Burgers so irresistible?
Irresistible flavor: The combination of juicy beef and smoky bacon ensures every bite bursts with flavor.
Gourmet touch: Topped with Bacon Onion Balsamic Jam, these burgers redefine comfort food with a rich, tangy twist.
Easy to prepare: With straightforward steps, you’ll have dinner on the table in no time—perfect for busy nights!
Crowd-pleaser: Whether hosting a barbecue or a cozy dinner, these burgers will become a favorite among family and friends.
Versatile: Feel free to experiment with toppings or buns, making them suitable for your personal taste—check out my variation ideas for inspiration!
Bacon Burgers Ingredients
For the Bacon Jam
• Applewood-smoked bacon – Adds a smoky flavor that elevates the Burgers; substitute with your favorite type of smoked bacon for a personal twist.
• Red onion – Provides sweetness and depth to the jam; yellow onions can be used if you prefer a milder taste.
• Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper – Essential for balancing flavors; feel free to switch to sea salt and black pepper if that’s what you have on hand.
• Balsamic vinegar – Brings acidity and complexity to the jam; red wine vinegar works as a tasty alternative if needed.
• Dijon mustard – Adds a nice tanginess; yellow mustard also works beautifully in a pinch.
For the Burgers
• Ground beef (85% or 90% lean) – The heartiness of your burger; lean beef ensures juiciness without being overly greasy, and grass-fed options add more flavor.
• Worcestershire sauce – Enhances the savory profile; for a vegan-friendly version, consider using coconut aminos.
• Sharp cheddar cheese – Melts perfectly, lending creaminess to each bite; substitute with a milder cheese if preferred.
• Hamburger buns – Provide structure and support; opt for potato buns for an irresistibly soft texture.
With these Bacon Burgers ingredients on hand, you’re just moments away from creating an unforgettable meal that’s sure to delight!
How to Make Bacon Burgers with Bacon Onion Balsamic Jam
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Cook the Bacon Jam: In a large sauté pan, cook the Applewood-smoked bacon over medium heat until browned and crispy, about 8 minutes. Remove the bacon, leaving some grease, and add diced red onions with a sprinkle of kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. Sauté for about 12 minutes until the onions are caramelized and soft.
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Add Flavor: Stir in balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, and a splash of water into the onion mixture. Crumble the cooked bacon back into the pan and let it all simmer together until the jam thickens, approximately 2-4 minutes. Set aside to cool.
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Prepare the Burger Patties: In a large bowl, gently mix the ground beef with finely diced bacon, Worcestershire sauce, and seasoning of salt and pepper. Take care not to overwork the meat. Form the mixture into four equal patties, each about 1-inch thick.
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Grill the Burgers: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Cook the patties for 4-5 minutes on each side, or until they reach a nice sear. About a minute before removing the burgers, add sharp cheddar cheese on top to melt perfectly.
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Assemble and Serve: Let the burgers rest for 5 minutes after grilling. Place each patty on a hamburger bun, and generously top with the Bacon Onion Balsamic Jam before serving. Enjoy immediately with your favorite sides!
Optional: Serve with baked oven fries for a delicious pairing.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Bacon Burgers
Fridge: Store any leftover Bacon Burgers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Make sure to cool them completely before sealing to avoid condensation.
Bacon Jam: Keep Bacon Onion Balsamic Jam in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just pop it in a clean jar, and reheat it gently on the stove or microwave before serving.
Freezer: You can freeze Bacon Burgers for up to 3 months. Wrap each patty tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag to prevent freezer burn.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, simply thaw the patties in the fridge overnight, then reheat on the grill or stovetop until warmed through, adding fresh bacon jam on top for that delicious flavor boost!
Bacon Burger Variations
Customize your Bacon Burgers to suit your tastes or dietary needs with these delicious twists!
- Dairy-Free: Use a plant-based cheese for a creamy, non-dairy alternative that still melts beautifully on your burger.
- Gluten-Free: Swap out regular hamburger buns for gluten-free options or use lettuce wraps for a fresh crunch.
- Spicy Kick: Add chopped jalapeños to the onion jam or use pepper jack cheese to bring heat to your burger experience.
- Sweetness Boost: Mix a tablespoon of brown sugar into the jam for an extra layer of sweetness that complements the savory bacon beautifully.
- Herbaceous Touch: Incorporate fresh herbs like basil or thyme into the beef mixture to elevate the flavor profile with herbal notes.
- Smoky Flavor: Try adding smoked paprika to the ground beef for an additional layer of smoky goodness that pairs well with the bacon.
- Slider Version: Transform the recipe into mini sliders for bite-sized delights, perfect for parties or casual gatherings with friends.
- Different Meats: For a unique twist, substitute the ground beef with ground turkey or chicken, creating a lighter burger without sacrificing flavor.
Feel free to mix and match these variations to craft your dream Bacon Burger experience!
Make Ahead Options
These Bacon Burgers with Bacon Onion Balsamic Jam are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time on busy weeknights! You can prepare the Bacon Onion Balsamic Jam up to 3 days in advance; just refrigerate it in an airtight container and reheat before serving to maintain its rich flavor. Additionally, you can form the burger patties and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours; simply wrap them tightly in plastic wrap to prevent them from drying out. When ready to grill, just follow the cooking instructions, and you’ll have juicy, gourmet burgers ready to impress with minimal effort!
Expert Tips for Bacon Burgers
- Bacon Perfection: Ensure the bacon is cooked until just crispy for a soft, creamy jam texture. Overcooking could lead to a dry consistency.
- Burger Mixing: Handle the ground beef gently and mix only until combined. This helps to prevent tough burgers that lose their juicy character.
- Temperature Check: Using a meat thermometer is key; aim for an internal temperature of 160°F for the juiciest Bacon Burgers.
- Prepping Ahead: Feel free to make the Bacon Onion Balsamic Jam in advance and refrigerate it. This will enhance flavors and ease your cooking process.
- Toast Those Buns: For extra flavor and texture, consider lightly toasting your hamburger buns before assembling your Bacon Burgers.
- Flavor Variations: Don’t hesitate to experiment with different toppings or spices—like jalapeños or herb blends—for a personalized twist on the classic Bacon Burgers.
What to Serve with Bacon Burgers with Bacon Onion Balsamic Jam?
Creating the perfect meal to accompany your mouthwatering burgers can elevate your dining experience to new heights.
- Crispy Baked Fries: Complement these juicy burgers with crispy fries that soak up every flavorful bite, providing a satisfying crunch.
- Creamy Coleslaw: The crunchy freshness and tangy creaminess of coleslaw contrast beautifully with the rich flavors of the burgers. It’s a classic pairing that adds vibrant color to your platter.
- Grilled Vegetables: Charred veggies like bell peppers and zucchini bring a delightful smokiness that harmonizes with the burger’s flavor while adding a healthy touch.
- Sweet Potato Wedges: These naturally sweet wedges offer a delicious balance to the savory richness of the bacon and jam, creating a delightful contrast in flavors.
- Potato Salad: A creamy potato salad serves as a hearty side, bringing comfort and a touch of nostalgia to your meal, perfect for summer cookouts.
- Sparkling Lemonade: Quench your thirst with a refreshing glass of sparkling lemonade; its citrusy zing provides a bright contrast to the deep flavors of the bacon burgers.
- Chocolate Milkshake: For dessert, a rich chocolate milkshake is a decadent finish, making the whole meal feel like a treat that everyone will savor.
- Corn on the Cob: Juicy, sweet corn on the cob, either grilled or boiled, is a delightful, seasonal addition that enhances the summery vibe of your gathering.
Bacon Burgers with Bacon Onion Balsamic Jam Recipe FAQs
What type of bacon should I use for the Bacon Jam?
Absolutely! I recommend using Applewood-smoked bacon for its rich, smoky flavor that enhances the burgers. If you prefer a different smoked bacon, feel free to substitute! Just make sure it’s a variety that you enjoy to keep that flavor profile you’re looking for.
How should I store leftover Bacon Burgers?
Leftover Bacon Burgers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It’s best to let them cool completely before sealing to prevent moisture buildup. For optimal taste, reheat gently to maintain the juicy texture of the burger.
Can I freeze the Bacon Burgers?
Very much! You can freeze the uncooked Bacon Burgers for up to 3 months. To do this, wrap each patty individually in plastic wrap, then place them inside a freezer-safe bag or container. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight, and cook as usual. They’ll taste just as delicious!
What if my Bacon Onion Balsamic Jam is too runny?
Not a problem! If your jam ends up too runny, simmer it on low heat for a bit longer until you reach the desired thickness. Stir occasionally to avoid sticking. If you want to thicken it quickly, you can also mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with a tiny bit of water to create a slurry, then add it to the jam.
Are these Bacon Burgers suitable for my dog?
While your dog may be tempted to beg for some, it’s best to take caution. The bacon, salt, and other seasonings might not be ideal for your pooch. If you want to treat them, consider making a simple burger patty without any additives, just plain ground beef, minus the seasoning and toppings.
Can I make the Bacon Jam ahead of time?
Absolutely! Making the Bacon Onion Balsamic Jam in advance is a great idea. You can prepare it up to a week ahead; store it in an airtight container in the fridge. The flavors will actually deepen over a few days! Just be sure to gently reheat it before topping your burgers for the best experience.
Bacon Burgers with Bacon Onion Balsamic Jam for Ultimate Flavor
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Cook the Bacon Jam: In a large sauté pan, cook the Applewood-smoked bacon over medium heat until browned and crispy, about 8 minutes. Remove the bacon, leaving some grease, and add diced red onions with a sprinkle of kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. Sauté for about 12 minutes until the onions are caramelized and soft.
- Add Flavor: Stir in balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, and a splash of water into the onion mixture. Crumble the cooked bacon back into the pan and let it all simmer together until the jam thickens, approximately 2-4 minutes. Set aside to cool.
- Prepare the Burger Patties: In a large bowl, gently mix the ground beef with finely diced bacon, Worcestershire sauce, and seasoning of salt and pepper. Form the mixture into four equal patties, each about 1-inch thick.
- Grill the Burgers: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Cook the patties for 4-5 minutes on each side, or until they reach a nice sear. About a minute before removing the burgers, add sharp cheddar cheese on top to melt perfectly.
- Assemble and Serve: Let the burgers rest for 5 minutes after grilling. Place each patty on a hamburger bun, and generously top with the Bacon Onion Balsamic Jam before serving.