Candy Apple BBQ Bacon Burger with Sweet & Savory Caramelized Onion Jam

Step-by-step instructions

1. Prepare the beef: In a bowl, season the ground beef with salt and pepper. Form it into 4 equal patties.

2. Cook the bacon: In a skillet, cook the bacon over medium heat until it’s crispy. Once done, remove and set aside.

3. Cook the patties: Using the same skillet, cook the beef patties to your desired doneness, which usually takes about 4-5 minutes per side.

4. Caramelize the onions: In a separate skillet, melt the butter over low heat. Add the sliced onions and cook until they are golden brown and caramelized.

5. Season the onions: Stir in the brown sugar and balsamic vinegar into the onions, mixing well to combine the flavors.

6. Toast the buns: Lightly toast the hamburger buns in the oven or on the grill until they’re golden brown.

7. Assemble your burger: Start with the bottom bun. Place a beef patty, top with a slice of bacon, drizzle on BBQ sauce, add a few slices of candy apple, and finish with a generous helping of the caramelized onion jam.

8. Top it off: Complete your burger with the top half of the bun, serve it hot, and enjoy the wonderful flavors.

Best ways to enjoy it

To truly savor your Candy Apple BBQ Bacon Burger, consider serving it with crispy sweet potato fries or a fresh coleslaw for that perfect crunch. For drinks, a cold craft soda or iced tea pairs exceptionally well, balancing the rich flavors of the burger. Don’t forget to add a side of pickles for a tangy contrast!

Storage and reheating tips

If you have leftovers (which might be rare with such a crowd-pleaser), you can store burgers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them gently in the oven to maintain their moisture while avoiding a chewy texture. It’s best to consume your leftovers within this time frame for maximum flavor and safety.

Helpful cooking tips

• For easier patty formation, wet your hands slightly with water to prevent the meat from sticking.
• If you want extra indulgence, add a slice of your favorite cheese on top of the patty during the last minute of cooking for melty goodness.
• Always let your burgers rest for a minute after cooking. This helps the juices redistribute, keeping your burger moist.

Creative twists

Experiment with your Candy Apple BBQ Bacon Burger by swapping the BBQ sauce for a spicy sriracha mayo to add heat. Consider using different toppings like crumbled feta or goat cheese for an impressive flavor shift, or try adding grilled pineapple slices for an extra tropical flair.

Your questions answered

Q: How long does it take to prepare this burger?
A: The total preparation time is around 30-40 minutes, making it a quick and enjoyable meal option.

Q: Can I make the caramelized onion jam ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! You can prepare the caramelized onion jam a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just reheat it before serving.

Q: Are there any gluten-free options available for this recipe?
A: Yes! Just use gluten-free buns, and you can also ensure your BBQ sauce is gluten-free to accommodate dietary restrictions.

Candy Apple BBQ Bacon Burger

A delightful mix of smoky bacon, juicy beef, and sweet candy apple slices topped with caramelized onion jam, perfect for family gatherings or weeknight dinners.

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Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 35 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Dinner, Main Course

Cuisine: American

Calories: 500

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Burger Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef Can substitute with ground turkey or plant-based beef.
• 4 pieces hamburger buns Gluten-free buns can be used.
• 4 slices bacon
• 1/2 cup BBQ sauce Ensure it's gluten-free if needed.
• 1 piece candy apple, sliced Adds a sweet crunch.

Caramelized Onion Jam Ingredients

• 1 piece onion, thinly sliced
• 2 tbsp brown sugar
• 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
• 2 tbsp butter
• Salt and pepper to taste

Method

 

Preparation

1. In a bowl, season the ground beef with salt and pepper. Form it into 4 equal patties.
2. In a skillet, cook the bacon over medium heat until it’s crispy. Once done, remove and set aside.

Cooking

1. Using the same skillet, cook the beef patties to your desired doneness, usually about 4-5 minutes per side.
2. In a separate skillet, melt the butter over low heat. Add the sliced onions and cook until they are golden brown and caramelized.
3. Stir in the brown sugar and balsamic vinegar into the onions, mixing well to combine the flavors.
4. Lightly toast the hamburger buns in the oven or on the grill until they’re golden brown.

Assembly

1. Start with the bottom bun. Place a beef patty, top with a slice of bacon, drizzle on BBQ sauce, add a few slices of candy apple, and finish with a generous helping of the caramelized onion jam.
2. Complete your burger with the top half of the bun, serve it hot, and enjoy.

Notes

For easier patty formation, wet your hands slightly with water to prevent the meat from sticking. If desired, top the patty with cheese during the last minute of cooking. Always let your burgers rest for a minute after cooking.