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Flavorful Ultimate Sweet Spicy Bacon Burger

sweet spicy bacon burger - featured image

A deliciously balanced burger featuring crispy thick-cut bacon, a sweet and spicy sauce, and juicy beef patties, perfect for quick and easy homemade meals.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb ground beef (80/20 preferred)
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • 3 tbsp honey
  • 2 tbsp ketchup
  • 1 tsp hot sauce
  • 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
  • 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
  • 6 slices thick-cut bacon
  • 4 brioche burger buns
  • 4 slices sharp cheddar cheese (optional)
  • Fresh lettuce leaves
  • Thinly sliced red onion
  • Pickles

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Lay thick-cut bacon slices on a parchment-lined baking sheet in a single layer. Bake for 15-20 minutes, flipping once halfway through, until crispy but not burnt. Remove and drain on paper towels.
  2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef with smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Gently mix until combined. Divide into 4 equal portions and shape into patties about ¾ inch thick. Press a slight dimple in the center of each patty.
  3. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, ketchup, hot sauce, cayenne pepper, and smoked paprika until smooth. Adjust heat as desired. Set aside.
  4. Heat skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat with a small drizzle of oil. Cook patties 4-5 minutes per side for medium doneness. Add cheddar cheese slice on top after flipping to melt if using.
  5. Slice brioche buns and lightly toast face down in a clean pan or under broiler for 1-2 minutes until golden and slightly crisp.
  6. Spread sweet spicy sauce generously on bottom and top buns. Layer lettuce, burger patty with melted cheese, crispy bacon slices, red onion rings, and pickles. Finish with top bun and extra sauce if desired. Serve immediately.

Notes

Do not overwork the ground beef to keep patties tender. Press a dimple in the center of patties to prevent bulging. Cook bacon in the oven to free up stovetop space and reduce splatter. Make sauce ahead and let sit for at least 10 minutes for better flavor. Let patties rest after cooking to lock in juices. Toast buns separately to avoid sogginess.

Nutrition

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