BBQ Bacon Cheeseburgers

BBQ Bacon Cheeseburgers are the ultimate backyard grilling classic. Juicy beef patties are loaded with crispy bacon, cheddar cheese, smoky barbecue sauce, and savory seasonings for a burger that delivers incredible flavor in every bite. Perfect for summer cookouts, game day gatherings, or family dinners, these burgers are hearty, satisfying, and guaranteed to impress anyone who loves a great cheeseburger.

BBQ Bacon Cheeseburgers

These BBQ Bacon Cheeseburgers are juicy, cheesy, and loaded with crispy bacon and barbecue sauce for the ultimate grilling recipe.

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Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 12 minutes mins

Total Time 27 minutes mins

Servings: 6 people

Calories: 690

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• For the Burger Patties
• 2 pounds ground beef 80/20 blend
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 6 slices bacon cooked and crumbled
• 1/2 cup finely diced onion
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• For Serving
• 6 hamburger buns
• 6 slices cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup barbecue sauce
• Lettuce leaves
• Sliced tomatoes
• Pickle slices
• Red onion slices

Method

 

1. Preheat a grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, shredded cheddar cheese, crumbled bacon, diced onion, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
3. Mix gently until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the burgers tender.
4. Divide the mixture into 6 equal portions and shape into burger patties about 3/4-inch thick.
5. Create a small indentation in the center of each patty to help prevent shrinking during cooking.
6. Place the patties on the hot grill.
7. Cook for about 4 to 5 minutes per side for medium doneness, adjusting cooking time as needed.
8. During the last minute of cooking, place a slice of cheddar cheese on each burger and close the grill lid until melted.
9. Lightly toast the hamburger buns on the grill.
10. Spread barbecue sauce on the buns.
11. Assemble the burgers with lettuce, tomato slices, pickles, red onion, and the cheesy bacon burgers.
12. Serve immediately while hot.

Notes

• An 80/20 beef blend provides the best balance of flavor and juiciness.
• Avoid pressing down on the burgers while grilling, as this releases valuable juices.
• The bacon can be cooked a day ahead to save time.
• Freshly shredded cheese melts more evenly than pre-shredded cheese.

Variations

• Add pepper jack cheese for extra heat.
• Use smoked gouda instead of cheddar.
• Top with crispy onion rings.
• Add jalapeño slices for a spicy kick.
• Use brioche buns for a richer flavor.
• Add caramelized onions instead of raw onions.
• Swap barbecue sauce for chipotle mayo.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with French fries or potato wedges.
• Pair with baked beans for a classic barbecue meal.
• Add coleslaw on the side.
• Serve alongside corn on the cob.
• Enjoy with a cold lemonade or iced tea.

Tips

• Keep the meat cold until ready to form patties.
• Handle the beef gently to avoid dense burgers.
• Let the burgers rest for a few minutes before serving.
• Toasting the buns improves texture and flavor.
• Use a meat thermometer for accurate doneness.
• Prepare toppings before grilling for easy assembly.
• Brush the grill grates with oil to prevent sticking.

Prep Time / Cook Time / Total Time

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 12 minutes

Total Time: 27 minutes

Servings

Serves: 6 people

Nutritional Info (Approx.)

Calories: 690 per serving

Protein: 40g

Carbohydrates: 28g

Fat: 45g

Fiber: 2g

Sugar: 8g

FAQs

What is the best beef for BBQ Bacon Cheeseburgers?

Ground beef with an 80/20 lean-to-fat ratio is generally considered the best choice because it stays juicy and flavorful during grilling. Leaner beef tends to dry out more quickly, while higher-fat blends can cause excessive flare-ups on the grill.

Can I prepare the burger patties ahead of time?

Yes. The patties can be formed up to 24 hours in advance and stored covered in the refrigerator. This makes cookout preparation much easier and allows the flavors to develop before grilling.

How do I keep burgers from shrinking on the grill?

Creating a small indentation in the center of each patty helps maintain a flat shape as the meat cooks. Burgers naturally contract during cooking, but this simple trick helps them cook more evenly and look better when served.

Can I cook these burgers indoors?

Absolutely. A cast-iron skillet or grill pan works very well. Cook over medium-high heat and follow the same cooking times, adjusting as needed depending on the thickness of the patties.

What toppings pair best with BBQ Bacon Cheeseburgers?

Classic toppings like lettuce, tomato, pickles, and onions work beautifully. Crispy onion rings, jalapeños, avocado slices, extra bacon, and specialty sauces also complement the smoky barbecue flavor exceptionally well.

Conclusion

BBQ Bacon Cheeseburgers combine juicy beef, smoky bacon, melted cheddar cheese, and tangy barbecue sauce into one unforgettable burger. Whether you’re hosting a summer cookout, celebrating game day, or simply craving a hearty homemade burger, this recipe delivers restaurant-quality flavor with simple ingredients and easy preparation.