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Loaded BBQ Bacon Burger Recipe with Crispy Onion Strings Easy & Flavorful

loaded BBQ bacon burger - featured image

A flavorful loaded BBQ bacon burger featuring juicy beef patties, smoky bacon, tangy BBQ sauce, and crispy homemade onion strings for a satisfying crunch.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb (450 g) ground beef, 80/20 blend
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 6 slices thick-cut bacon, cooked until crisp
  • 4 hamburger buns, toasted lightly
  • 4 slices sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup crispy onion strings (homemade)
  • Leafy lettuce leaves, washed and dried
  • 2 large tomatoes, sliced
  • Dill pickle slices (optional)
  • 2 large sweet onions (Vidalia or Maui)
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika (for onion strings)
  • Salt and pepper (for onion strings)
  • Vegetable oil for frying
  • 1/2 cup BBQ sauce
  • 1 tbsp honey (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Crispy Onion Strings: Peel and thinly slice onions into rings or strings. Separate gently.
  2. Mix flour, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper in a large bowl.
  3. Toss onion rings in the flour mixture until well coated. Shake off excess flour and set aside.
  4. Heat vegetable oil in a deep frying pan to 350°F (175°C).
  5. Fry onion strings in batches for 2-3 minutes until golden brown and crisp. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels. Season immediately with salt.
  6. Cook bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy. Drain on paper towels and set aside.
  7. In a bowl, combine ground beef with smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix gently.
  8. Divide meat into 4 equal portions and shape into patties about ¾ inch thick, pressing a slight dimple in the center.
  9. Heat cast iron skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Cook patties 4-5 minutes per side until internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). Add cheese slices during last minute and cover to melt.
  10. Lightly toast hamburger buns on grill or in toaster.
  11. Assemble burgers: spread BBQ sauce on bottom bun, add lettuce, burger with melted cheese, crispy bacon, tomato slices, pickles (if using), and crispy onion strings. Top with bun lid and press gently.
  12. Serve immediately with favorite sides.

Notes

Do not overwork the meat to keep patties tender. Press a dimple in patties to prevent puffing. Keep oil temperature at 350°F for crispy onion strings. Let patties rest 3-5 minutes after cooking. Fry onion strings in small batches to maintain crispness. Bacon fat can be used to brush buns for extra smoky flavor.

Nutrition

Keywords: BBQ bacon burger, crispy onion strings, loaded burger, grilled burger, homemade onion strings, smoky bacon burger