Bacon Burger with Cheddar Cheese and Onion Jam

Picture this: a glorious patty of beef, seasoned to perfection with a dash of garlic and onion magic – because why settle for anything less than pure burger alchemy? As it sizzles on the grill, you’ll witness a dance of smoky deliciousness that’ll make you wonder if you’re dreaming or if this is actually burger paradise.

Ingredients:

For the Onion Jam:

• 2 large onions, thinly sliced
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
• Salt and black pepper to taste

For the Bacon Burgers:

• 1 pound ground beef (80% lean, 20% fat for juicy burgers)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 4 burger buns
• 4 slices cheddar cheese
• 8 strips of crispy cooked bacon
• Lettuce leaves or rucola and tomato slices for garnish (Optional)

Instructions:

For the Onion Jam:

1. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the thinly sliced onions and cook them slowly until they become soft and caramelized, about 15-20 minutes.
2. Stir in the brown sugar and balsamic vinegar, and continue cooking the mixture for another 10 minutes, or until the onions are jam-like in consistency. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Set the onion jam aside.

For the Bacon Burgers:

1. Preheat your grill or stovetop griddle over medium-high heat.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix well, but avoid overworking the meat to keep the burgers tender.
3. Divide the seasoned beef mixture into four equal portions. Shape each portion into a patty, making them slightly larger than the burger buns to allow for shrinkage during cooking.
4. Grill the burger patties for about 4-5 minutes per side or until they reach your desired level of doneness. During the last minute of grilling, add a slice of cheddar cheese on top of each patty and let it melt.
5. While the burgers are cooking, lightly toast the burger buns on the grill or in a separate pan.

To Assemble:

1. Place the cooked burger patties on the bottom halves of the toasted burger buns.
2. Top each patty with two strips of crispy cooked bacon.
3. Generously spoon the caramelized onion jam over the bacon.
4. Add lettuce leaves and tomato slices for freshness and extra flavor. (Optional)
5. Complete the burger with the top halves of the toasted burger buns.

Now this Bacon Burger with Cheddar Cheese and Onion Jam is about to take you on a burger journey like no other. Grab your forks, knives – nah!… Who needs those? – get your hands dirty and be ready to savor every mouthwatering bite of this burger wonderland. Bon appétit and happy burger feasting!