An Irresistible Twist on a Classic: Bacon Jam Grilled Cheeseburgers
Imagine sinking your teeth into a juicy, perfectly grilled cheeseburger with a tantalizing twist—savory-sweet bacon jam. This isn’t just any burger; it’s an experience that combines smoky, crispy bacon with caramelized onions and a touch of sweetness. This Bacon Jam Grilled Cheeseburger is the ultimate comfort food that will leave your taste buds singing!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These grilled cheeseburgers are a delightful blend of flavors and textures. The bacon jam adds a rich, sweet, and smoky element that elevates the classic burger to gourmet status. Easy to prepare yet impressive, this recipe is perfect for barbecues, family dinners, or any occasion that calls for a little indulgence.
Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need
- Cast iron skillet
- Grill
- Mixing bowls
- Spatula
Ingredients
For the Bacon Jam
- 1/2 pound of bacon, chopped
- 1/2 medium yellow onion, chopped
- 2 tablespoons minced garlic
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- Pinch of cayenne pepper (Optional)
For the Burger
- 1 pound of ground beef
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 4 brioche buns, toasted
- 4 slices of cheddar cheese
- Lettuce for each burger (Optional)
- 4 tablespoons of mayonnaise (Optional)
Step-by-step Instructions
- To make the bacon jam, heat a cast iron skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped bacon and cook until crispy, stirring occasionally. Remove the bacon from the skillet and drain the excess grease, leaving about 1 tablespoon of grease in the pan.
- In the same skillet, add the diced onion and cook until caramelized and browned, stirring occasionally.
- Once the onions are cooked through, add the minced garlic and cook for about a minute. Then, add back the bacon along with the brown sugar, maple syrup, and apple cider vinegar. You can also add a pinch of cayenne pepper to balance the sweetness.
- Stir to combine all the ingredients and let the mixture simmer on low heat for about 10-15 minutes until the jam starts to thicken. Turn off the heat and let it cool, as it will thicken further.
- Next, form 1/4 lb patties with the ground beef and season them with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
- Heat up your grill to medium-high heat and cook the burgers to your desired level of doneness. (Aim for about 150°F internal temperature for medium doneness.)
- Add a slice of cheddar cheese to each burger and toast your buns on the grill.
- Assemble the burgers with your preferred toppings. Add mayo to the bottom bun, followed by lettuce, a cheeseburger patty, and a generous heaping of bacon jam.
- Serve the bacon jam burgers immediately and enjoy!
Tips for Success
- Ensure the bacon is crispy for the best texture in the jam.
- Let the bacon jam cool slightly before using; it will thicken and deepen in flavor.
- Don’t overcook the burgers; aim for a juicy center.
Additional Tips or Variations
For a spicy kick, add more cayenne pepper to the bacon jam. You can also experiment with different types of cheese, such as blue cheese or Gruyère, to complement the bacon jam’s richness.
Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)
Each serving of the Bacon Jam Grilled Cheeseburger is packed with protein and a balance of savory and sweet flavors. While indulgent, it’s a treat worth savoring!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I make the bacon jam in advance? Yes, you can prepare the bacon jam a day or two ahead and store it in the fridge. Just reheat it gently before serving.
What type of beef should I use for the burgers? Opt for ground beef with an 80/20 fat ratio for juicy, flavorful burgers.
Can I make these burgers without a grill? Absolutely! You can cook the patties in a skillet or under a broiler if a grill isn’t available.
Conclusion
These Bacon Jam Grilled Cheeseburgers are a must-try for anyone who loves a good burger with a twist. The combination of flavors is sure to win over your family and friends. Give this recipe a try and don’t forget to share your delicious creations and experiences in the comments below!
