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Savory Bourbon Bacon Jam Burger Recipe with Easy Caramelized Onions

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A juicy, smoky, and sweet-savory burger featuring bourbon-infused bacon jam and slow-cooked caramelized onions, perfect for a comforting yet impressive meal.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 slices thick-cut bacon
  • 1 large yellow onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
  • 1/4 cup bourbon whiskey
  • 1/4 cup brewed coffee, unsweetened
  • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter or olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • Pinch of salt
  • 1 lb ground beef, 80/20 blend
  • Salt and pepper
  • 4 brioche burger buns
  • Optional: slices of sharp cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese
  • Leafy lettuce
  • Tomato slices

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Bacon Jam: Chop the bacon into small pieces. Add to a cold skillet and cook over medium heat until crispy, about 8-10 minutes. Using a slotted spoon, transfer bacon bits to a paper towel-lined plate but leave the rendered fat in the pan.
  2. Sauté the Onions & Garlic: Add the finely chopped onions to the bacon fat and cook over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until translucent and soft, about 10 minutes. Add garlic and cook another 2 minutes.
  3. Add Flavorings: Stir in brown sugar, bourbon, coffee, apple cider vinegar, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Simmer gently, scraping the bottom of the pan to loosen any browned bits. Cook until the mixture thickens and becomes jam-like, around 15-20 minutes. Stir frequently to prevent burning.
  4. Caramelize the Onions: While the jam simmers, melt butter in a separate skillet over low heat. Add thinly sliced onions, sugar, and a pinch of salt. Cook very slowly, stirring every few minutes, until deep golden brown and sweetly fragrant, about 30-40 minutes.
  5. Form and Cook the Patties: Shape the ground beef into four equal patties, about 4 inches across and 3/4 inch thick. Season generously with salt and pepper. Cook on a hot grill or skillet for about 4 minutes per side for medium, or until desired doneness. Add cheese during the last minute if using.
  6. Toast the Buns: Lightly butter the brioche buns and toast them on the grill or in a pan until golden and slightly crisp.
  7. Assemble the Burgers: Spread a generous layer of bourbon bacon jam on the bottom bun, add the burger patty, a heap of caramelized onions, lettuce, tomato, and top with the bun. Serve immediately.

Notes

Cook bacon jam on low heat to avoid burning and achieve a thick, spreadable consistency. Caramelize onions slowly over low heat for best flavor. Let burgers rest a few minutes after cooking for juicier results. Bacon jam and caramelized onions can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to a week.

Nutrition

Keywords: bourbon bacon jam, caramelized onions, burger recipe, savory burger, bacon jam burger, easy burger recipe, comfort food

Find it online: https://evabake.com/savory-bourbon-bacon-jam-burger-recipe-with-easy-caramelized-onions/