BBQ Bacon Burger Recipe (Backyard Cookout Favorite)
Why You'll Love This Recipe
Sweet and smoky barbecue flavor
Crispy bacon in every bite
Melted cheddar cheese
Perfect cookout burger
Easy grilling recipe
Restaurant-quality results at home
The Origins of the BBQ Bacon Burger
The BBQ Bacon Burger became popular as American barbecue culture exploded throughout the South and Midwest. Restaurants began combining smoky barbecue sauce, crispy bacon, and juicy cheeseburgers into one indulgent burger.
Today, the BBQ Bacon Burger is a staple at burger restaurants, sports bars, cookouts, and backyard barbecues across America.
Ingredients
For the Burgers
1½ pounds 80/20 ground beef
1 teaspoon kosher salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
4 slices sharp cheddar cheese
4 brioche buns
For the Toppings
8 slices crispy bacon
½ cup barbecue sauce
1 cup crispy onion rings
Dill pickle chips
Lettuce leaves
Equipment Needed
Grill or cast iron skillet
Mixing bowl
Spatula
Meat thermometer
How to Make BBQ Bacon Burgers
Step 1: Cook the Bacon
Cook the bacon until crispy.
Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate.
Step 2: Form the Patties
Combine:
Ground beef
Salt
Pepper
Garlic powder
Onion powder
Mix gently.
Form into four burger patties.
Step 3: Grill the Burgers
Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
Cook burgers 4 to 5 minutes per side.
Cook until the internal temperature reaches 160°F.
Step 4: Add the Cheese
Place cheddar cheese on each burger during the final minute of cooking.
Allow it to melt completely.
Step 5: Toast the Buns
Toast the brioche buns until lightly golden.
Step 6: Build the Burgers
Spread barbecue sauce on the buns.
Add:
Burger patty
Crispy bacon
Onion rings
Pickles
Lettuce
Top with the bun and serve immediately.
Expert Tips
Use a smoky barbecue sauce.
Thick-cut bacon works best.
Toast the buns to prevent sogginess.
Use fresh onion rings for maximum crunch.
Rest burgers for 2 minutes before assembling.
What to Serve with BBQ Bacon Burgers
Corn Salad
Pasta Salad
Tortellini Pasta Salad
Coleslaw
Watermelon Feta Salad
Baked Beans
Macaroni Salad
Potato Salad
Perfect Drink Pairings
Sweet Tea
Cherry Coke
Root Beer
Lemonade
Peach Tea
Arnold Palmer
Vanilla Milkshake
Variations
Spicy BBQ Bacon Burger
Add jalapeños and pepper jack cheese.
Double BBQ Burger
Use two thinner patties.
Western BBQ Burger
Add extra onion rings and smoked gouda.
Bourbon BBQ Burger
Use bourbon barbecue sauce for added depth.
Storage
Store burger patties separately in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Reheat before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions
What barbecue sauce is best for burgers?
A smoky, slightly sweet barbecue sauce pairs best with bacon and cheddar cheese.
Can I make BBQ bacon burgers indoors?
Yes. A cast iron skillet works wonderfully.
What cheese pairs best with barbecue sauce?
Cheddar, smoked gouda, and pepper jack are excellent choices.
Nutrition Information
Serving Size: 1 Burger
Calories: 860
Carbohydrates: 42g
Protein: 44g
Fat: 56g
More Burger Recipes You'll Love
Classic Cheeseburger Recipe
Smash Burger Recipe
Bacon Cheeseburger Recipe
Mushroom Swiss Burger
Patty Melt Recipe
Ed's Secret Sauce Recipe
Final Thoughts
This BBQ Bacon Burger is smoky, cheesy, sweet, savory, and loaded with flavor. It's the ultimate backyard cookout burger and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for summer grilling season.