Description

Welcome to the delicious world of burgers! Today, we're diving into a classic American favorite that takes the humble hamburger to extraordinary new heights: the Bacon BBQ Smash Burger. This dish is a bold celebration of flavors, textures, and aromas that brings together juicy ground beef, crispy bacon, gooey melted American cheese, and tangy BBQ sauce, all nestled between soft and toasted burger buns. Just envision the sizzling sound of the beef hitting the hot skillet and the irresistible aroma wafting through your kitchen.

The smash burger technique is key here, where the patties are pressed down to create a beautifully caramelized crust. Each bite bursts with juicy meatiness, while the complementary toppings add layers of flavor that make this burger truly special. Perfect for backyard barbecues, casual cookouts, or a cozy dinner at home, it's a recipe that will impress your friends and family without requiring a culinary degree.

This dish is simple enough for novice cooks while still exciting for seasoned grill masters, striking the ideal balance between comfort food and culinary adventure. So, roll up your sleeves and get ready to treat your taste buds to a smoky, savory experience that you won’t soon forget!

Ingredients

• Before you embark on your burger-making journey, gather your ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:
• For the Burgers:
• Ground beef (80/20) - 2 lbs
• American cheese slices - 8
• Burger buns (brioche or sesame) - 4
• Bacon strips - 8, cooked until crispy
• For the Seasoning and Toppings:
• BBQ sauce - 1/2 cup
• Butter - 2 tbsp (for buns)
• Salt and pepper - to taste
• Optional Enhancements:
• While the classic version of this burger is mouthwatering as it stands, feel free to customize it to your liking. Here are some suggestions:
• - Spiced Up Meat: Enhance the ground beef mix with garlic powder, onion powder, or your favorite burger seasoning.
• - Different Cheeses: Experiment with cheddar, pepper jack, or gouda for a unique cheese experience.
• - Toppings Galore: Consider adding pickles, grilled onions, jalapeños, or even a fried egg for an extra kick.
• - Alternative Sauces: Swap out the BBQ sauce for sriracha mayo, honey mustard, or even a garlic aioli for a different flavor profile.

Preparation Method

1. Divide ground beef into eight 2 oz portions.
2. Preheat a cast-iron skillet to medium-high heat.
3. Add beef balls to the skillet, spacing them apart.
4. Smash each beef ball into a 1/2 inch thick patty with a spatula.
5. Season patties with salt and pepper.
6. Cook patties for 2 to 3 minutes until edges brown.
7. Flip patties and add a slice of American cheese on each.
8. Cover skillet for 1 to 2 minutes to melt cheese.
9. Butter the insides of the burger buns.
10. Toast buns butter-side down in the skillet until golden brown.
11. Assemble burgers with a patty, crispy bacon, and BBQ sauce on the bottom bun.
12. Add the top bun and serve open-faced if desired.

Tips and Conclusion

If you have leftovers (which is a rare occurrence with these beauties), store the uneaten patties and toppings separately in airtight containers. To reheat, place the patties in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, and toast the buns again briefly for that delightful crunch. For an easy side dish, consider whipping up a simple coleslaw or potato salad – both pair incredibly well with these BBQ smash burgers!
As you take that first mouthwatering bite of your Bacon BBQ Smash Burger, you’ll understand why this recipe deserves a special place in your cooking repertoire. The blend of flavors gives a nostalgic nod to backyard barbecues while allowing you to explore your culinary creativity. Each mouthful is a juicy experience filled with crispy textures from the bacon and the lovely tang of the BBQ sauce, making it impossible to resist reaching for another bite.

Whether you’re enjoying this meal with friends at a summer cookout or savoring it solo on a relaxing evening, there’s no denying the comfort and satisfaction this dish brings. If you loved this recipe, don't stop here! Explore our collection of gourmet recipes or check out our tips for perfecting your own burger creations. Don’t forget to share your homemade Bacon BBQ Smash Burger experience on social media! Let’s keep the love for cooking alive as you share not just this recipe, but also your passion for culinary adventures.