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Savory Whiskey Bacon Burger Recipe with Easy Caramelized Onions

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A flavorful burger featuring juicy ground beef patties topped with whiskey-soaked caramelized onions and crispy bacon, perfect for a quick and delicious meal.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb (450 g) ground beef (80/20 blend)
  • 6 slices thick-cut bacon
  • 2 medium yellow onions, thinly sliced
  • 1/4 cup (60 ml) whiskey (bourbon or rye)
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 4 slices cheddar cheese (optional)
  • 4 sturdy burger buns (brioche or potato preferred)
  • 2 tbsp (28 g) butter
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • Optional toppings: lettuce, tomato slices, pickles, spicy mustard

Instructions

  1. Heat 1 tbsp butter in a cast iron skillet over medium-low heat. Add thinly sliced yellow onions and a pinch of salt. Stir occasionally and cook for 20-25 minutes until golden and soft.
  2. Pour in 1/4 cup whiskey when onions are soft and golden. Stir and simmer for about 5 minutes until liquid reduces and coats the onions. Remove from heat and set aside.
  3. Cook 6 slices of bacon in a separate pan over medium heat until crisp but not overly hard (6-8 minutes). Drain on paper towels.
  4. In a bowl, combine ground beef with garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Divide into 4 equal portions and gently form into 3/4-inch thick patties.
  5. Heat skillet over medium-high heat. Cook patties 4-5 minutes per side for medium doneness. Add cheese slices in the last minute and cover loosely to melt, if using.
  6. Spread remaining butter on cut sides of buns. Toast in a dry pan over medium heat for 1-2 minutes until golden brown.
  7. Assemble burgers by layering a patty on each bun bottom, topping with whiskey caramelized onions and two slices of bacon. Add optional toppings and crown with bun tops.
  8. Serve immediately while hot.

Notes

Use mid-range bourbon like Buffalo Trace for best flavor. Cook onions slowly over low heat to avoid burning. Make a small indentation in patties to prevent puffing. Leftover onions can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and taste better after resting. For gluten-free, use gluten-free buns or lettuce wraps. For dairy-free, substitute butter with olive oil or vegan butter.

Nutrition

Keywords: whiskey burger, bacon burger, caramelized onions, easy burger recipe, bourbon burger, backyard BBQ, quick dinner