Nothing satisfies like the perfect BBQ Bacon Burger – a symphony of smoky, savory, and sweet flavors that elevates backyard grilling to gourmet status. This isn’t just another burger; it’s a carefully crafted masterpiece combining premium beef, crispy bacon, tangy homemade BBQ sauce, and the crunch of either bacon-wrapped or beer-battered onion rings.
Whether you’re a home cook looking to impress or a grill enthusiast chasing burger perfection, mastering these techniques will transform your cookouts. We’ll break down everything from selecting the ideal 80/20 ground beef to creating that signature sear with the smashburger method, plus two showstopping onion ring variations that make this burger truly special.
The BBQ Bacon Burger Breakdown: What Makes It Special
The magic of this BBQ Bacon Burger lies in its perfect balance of textures and flavors. At its core is a juicy grilled beef patty topped with crispy Wright® Brand Bacon, melted pepper jack cheese, and a generous slather of tangy BBQ sauce. But the real showstopper? The signature bacon-wrapped onion rings or beer-battered rings that crown this creation, adding an irresistible crunch (Sources 3 & 4). Nutritionally, it strikes a moderate balance with a Nutri-score C and Green-score C, making it an occasional indulgence worth savoring (Source 1).
What sets this burger apart is the thoughtful contrast: the rich umami of 80/20 ground beef (recommended for optimal juiciness) against the smoky saltiness of premium bacon, all brought together by the sweet acidity of homemade BBQ sauce (Sources 4, 5 & 6). The onion rings – whether wrapped in hickory-smoked bacon or dipped in Samuel Adams Summer Ale batter – provide that essential textural counterpoint that elevates each bite from satisfying to extraordinary.
Essential Ingredients for Burger Perfection
Building this burger starts with selecting premium components. For the patty, 80/20 ground beef (80% lean, 20% fat) is non-negotiable – this fat ratio ensures proper juiciness without excessive grease (Sources 4 & 6). Bacon matters too: Wright® Brand Hickory Smoked Bacon delivers consistent crispness and robust flavor that stands up to other ingredients (Source 4).
Cheese options should complement rather than overwhelm: classic American melts beautifully, sharp cheddar adds punch, pepper jack brings subtle heat, or provolone offers mild creaminess (Sources 3 & 6). For the onion rings, sweet Vidalia onions are ideal – their natural sugar caramelizes beautifully when wrapped in bacon or fried in batter (Source 4).
The BBQ sauce can make or break your burger. While store-bought versions work in a pinch, homemade allows customization – balance sweetness with acidity, smoke with spice. Consider starting with a ketchup base, adding molasses for depth, apple cider vinegar for tang, and smoked paprika for complexity (Sources 3 & 6). Remember: sauce thickness matters – it should cling to the burger without dripping excessively.
Mastering the Smashburger Technique
The smashburger method creates unparalleled texture – a crispy, caramelized crust sealing in juicy interior goodness. Start by forming loose balls of 80/20 ground beef slightly larger than golf balls (they’ll spread when smashed). Place them on a screaming-hot griddle or cast iron, then firmly press with a spatula to create patties about 1/2-inch thick (Source 3).
Pro tip: Make patties 20% wider than your bun to account for inevitable shrinkage (Source 6). Create a small divot in the center of each patty before cooking – this prevents the dreaded “burger dome” where edges rise while the center stays thick (Source 4). Cook undisturbed for 2-3 minutes until a deep brown crust forms, then flip just once.
Temperature control is crucial: 130-135°F yields perfect medium-rare, while 160°F is well-done (Source 6). Resist the urge to press cooking burgers – this squeezes out precious juices (Source 4). For cheese melting perfection, add slices immediately after flipping, then cover briefly to create a steamy environment that ensures even melting.
Bacon-Wrapped vs Beer-Battered Onion Rings
The onion ring debate comes down to texture preference and preparation time. Bacon-wrapped rings showcase thick-cut Wright® Brand Bacon spiraled around sweet Vidalia onion slices – the bacon’s fat renders slowly, basting the onion while creating a crisp exterior (Source 4). For beer-battered versions, Samuel Adams Summer Ale adds malty depth to the batter while creating an airy, golden crust when fried (Source 3).
Time-crunched cooks can opt for oven-baked rings – lightly oiled and baked at 400°F until crispy (Source 6). Both styles can be partially prepped ahead: wrap bacon around onions or mix dry batter ingredients in advance, but fry just before serving for maximum crispness (Source 4). Consider making extra – these disappear fast whether topping burgers or served alongside.
Texture contrast is key here: the bacon-wrapped version offers meaty crunch with sweet onion softness inside, while beer-battered rings provide a lighter, crispier bite that lets the onion shine. Whichever you choose, salt immediately after cooking to ensure seasoning adherence.
Pro Assembly: Building the Ultimate Burger
Transform your BBQ Bacon Burger into a structural masterpiece with these pro assembly techniques. Start by toasting your buns – this creates a crisp exterior that prevents sogginess while adding delightful texture. Place the cheese-topped smashburger patty directly on the bottom bun to let melted cheese act as a moisture barrier. Next comes the crispy bacon layer, followed by those showstopping bacon-wrapped onion rings for crunch and smoky depth.
Apply your homemade BBQ sauce strategically – opt for a thicker consistency that clings to ingredients without making the bun soggy. Place pickles directly on the sauce layer to add bright acidity. For optional toppings, consider crisp lettuce, juicy tomato slices, spicy jalapeños, or creamy avocado to customize your creation. Remember: heavier toppings go closer to the patty for better structural integrity. Press gently when assembling to create cohesion without crushing your masterpiece.
Expert Tips & Customization Options
Elevate your BBQ Bacon Burger game with these professional tweaks. For supremely juicy patties, try the panade technique – mixing breadcrumbs soaked in milk directly into your ground beef. When it comes to cheese, swap standard cheddar for bold blue cheese crumbles that complement the smoky bacon. Infuse your patties with extra flavor by adding Worcestershire sauce for umami depth or smoked paprika for a subtle heat.
Vegetable lovers can layer on grilled portobello mushrooms for meaty texture or sweet caramelized onions for richness. For spice enthusiasts, mix minced jalapeños or chipotle peppers into the beef. These small adjustments let you personalize your burger while maintaining the perfect balance of flavors that make the BBQ Bacon Burger legendary.
Perfect Pairings & Serving Suggestions
Complete your BBQ Bacon Burger experience with ideal accompaniments. Classic summer barbecue sides like creamy coleslaw, hearty baked beans, and chunky potato salad create the ultimate comfort food spread. For lighter options, try crisp broccoli slaw or a fresh green salad with tangy vinaigrette.
When it comes to drinks, Samuel Adams Summer Ale makes an exceptional pairing – its citrusy notes cut through the burger’s richness while complementing the smoky flavors. For storage, keep assembled burgers in an airtight container for 3-5 days (store toppings separately to maintain texture). Serve with plenty of napkins – this gloriously messy creation is worth every bite!