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Savory Bourbon Bacon Burger Recipe with Sweet Caramelized Onions Made Easy

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A flavorful burger combining smoky bacon, smooth bourbon, and sweet caramelized onions for a comforting and sophisticated meal that’s quick and easy to prepare.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb (450 g) ground beef, preferably 80/20 for juicy results
  • 1/4 cup (60 ml) bourbon (a good quality but affordable brand like Jim Beam works well)
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter (or olive oil for a lighter option)
  • 1 tbsp bourbon (optional but highly recommended for sweetness and aroma)
  • 1 tsp brown sugar
  • Pinch of salt
  • 6 slices thick-cut bacon
  • 4 brioche buns, toasted (or potato rolls)
  • Leafy lettuce or arugula
  • Optional: sharp cheddar or smoked gouda cheese slices
  • Condiments like Dijon mustard or mayo

Instructions

  1. Peel and thinly slice the onions. Heat 2 tablespoons of butter in a skillet over medium-low heat. Add onions, brown sugar, and a pinch of salt. Stir occasionally, letting them soften and turn golden brown — about 25-30 minutes. Add 1 tablespoon bourbon in the last 5 minutes to deepen flavor. Set aside once caramelized.
  2. In the same skillet or a separate pan, cook 6 slices of thick-cut bacon over medium heat until crispy but still a bit chewy, about 8-10 minutes. Transfer to paper towels to drain excess fat.
  3. In a mixing bowl, combine 1 lb ground beef with 1/4 cup bourbon, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix gently — overworking the meat makes it tough. Form into 4 equal patties, about 1/2-inch thick. Let them rest for 5 minutes to absorb flavors.
  4. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add patties and cook about 4 minutes per side for medium doneness (internal temp 160°F / 71°C). For cheeseburgers, add cheese slices in the last minute and cover to melt. Let patties rest briefly after cooking.
  5. Lightly toast brioche buns in the skillet or toaster for a crisp edge and warm center.
  6. Spread mustard or mayo on the bun bottom. Layer with lettuce or arugula, then the burger patty, bacon slices, and a generous heap of caramelized onions. Top with the bun crown.
  7. Serve immediately with your favorite sides.

Notes

Be patient when caramelizing onions; cook low and slow to avoid bitterness. Avoid overmixing the burger meat to keep patties tender. Use a hot skillet for a good sear and let patties rest after cooking to retain juices. When adding bourbon, pour carefully to avoid flare-ups. Caramelized onions can be made ahead and stored refrigerated for up to 3 days.

Nutrition

Keywords: bourbon bacon burger, caramelized onions, bacon burger recipe, easy burger recipe, bourbon burger, sweet onions, smoky bacon, quick dinner, casual gatherings

Find it online: https://evabakery.com/savory-bourbon-bacon-burger-recipe-with-sweet-caramelized-onions-made-easy/