Print

Loaded Bacon Burger Recipe with Beer-Caramelized Onions

loaded bacon burger - featured image

A flavorful loaded bacon burger featuring smoky bacon, juicy beef patties, and sweet-savory beer-caramelized onions. Perfect for casual gatherings and quick homemade indulgence.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb (450 g) ground beef, preferably 80/20 for juiciness
  • 1 tsp kosher salt
  • ½ tsp freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • ½ cup (120 ml) lager or ale beer
  • 1 tsp brown sugar (optional)
  • Pinch of salt
  • 6 strips thick-cut bacon
  • 4 slices sharp cheddar cheese
  • 4 brioche burger buns, toasted
  • Leaf lettuce
  • Tomato slices
  • Dill pickle slices
  • Condiments of choice (mustard, mayo, ketchup)

Instructions

  1. Heat butter and olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add thinly sliced onions and a pinch of salt. Cook slowly, stirring occasionally, for 15-20 minutes until onions are soft and golden brown. Add a splash of water if onions start sticking.
  2. Pour in the beer and sprinkle brown sugar if using. Stir well and cook for another 10 minutes until liquid mostly evaporates and onions are sticky and richly colored.
  3. Cook bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crisp, about 6-8 minutes. Drain on paper towels. Save bacon fat for flavoring patties or toasting buns.
  4. Divide ground beef into four equal portions (about 4 oz each). Form patties about ¾ inch thick with a slight indentation in the center. Season both sides with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and garlic powder just before cooking.
  5. Heat grill pan or skillet to medium-high. Cook patties 3-4 minutes per side for medium doneness (internal temp 160°F). Add cheddar slice on top during last minute and cover to melt.
  6. Lightly brush buns with bacon fat or butter and toast in skillet or under broiler until golden and crisp.
  7. Assemble burgers by layering lettuce, tomato, and pickles on bottom bun. Add cheesy burger patty, crispy bacon, and generous spoonfuls of beer-caramelized onions. Spread condiments on top bun and serve immediately.

Notes

Slow caramelization of onions is key to avoid bitterness. Use medium-bodied lagers or amber ales for best flavor. Let patties rest 5 minutes after cooking for juiciness. Save bacon fat for extra flavor. For gluten-free, use gluten-free buns or lettuce wraps. Vegetarian options include plant-based bacon alternatives.

Nutrition

Keywords: loaded bacon burger, beer caramelized onions, homemade burger, bacon burger recipe, easy burger recipe, quick dinner, backyard barbecue