Forget placing a lonely strip of bacon on top of your burger. We’re taking things to the next level by infusing the patty itself with the smoky, savory goodness of real bacon. This isn’t just a burger; it’s a flavor explosion where rich ground beef and crispy bacon bits unite in a perfectly grilled patty, kissed with a hint of chipotle spice. Simple, outrageously juicy, and guaranteed to be the star of your next cookout. Need we say more?
Ingredients
• 2 lb / 907 g ground beef (80/20 recommended)
• 4 slices / 4 oz / 113 g uncooked bacon
• 2 large eggs
• ½ tsp / 1 g chipotle chili powder
• Salt to taste
Instructions
1. Finely chop the uncooked bacon into a variety of sizes, from small pieces to almost minced.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped bacon, chipotle chili powder, and a pinch of salt. Mix well to distribute the seasonings.
3. Add the ground beef and the two eggs to the bowl with the bacon mixture.
4. Gently mix all with your hands until just combined, seasoning with additional salt to your preference. Be careful not to overwork the meat.
5. Divide the mixture into equal portions and form them into patties, about ¾-inch thick. Press a shallow dimple into the center of each patty to prevent them from puffing up during cooking.
6. Preheat your grill to a high heat of 450°F / 232°C, setting up both direct and indirect heat zones.
7. Place the patties on the grill over direct heat. Cook for 2 minutes per side to achieve a perfect sear.
8. Move the patties to the indirect heat zone. Continue to grill for another 3-4 minutes per side, or until they reach your desired level of doneness.
9. Let the burgers rest for a few minutes before serving on your favorite buns with your choice of toppings.
Nutritional Information
• Estimated values per burger, assuming 6 patties.
• Calories: 485 kcal
• Protein: 34 g
• Fat: 38 g
• Carbohydrates: 1 g
• Sodium: 450 mg
Pro Tips
• For firmer patties that hold their shape better on the grill, place them in the refrigerator for 30 minutes before cooking.
• Gently combine the until they just come together. Overworking the beef can result in tough, dense burgers.
• For an epic bacon cheeseburger, add a slice of sharp cheddar or smoked gouda during the last minute of cooking on indirect heat.
• Ensure your grill grates are clean and lightly oiled before cooking to prevent the patties from sticking.
FAQ
Q: Can I use cooked bacon for this recipe
A: This recipe is specifically designed for uncooked bacon. Chopping raw bacon and mixing it into the patty allows its fat to render during cooking, infusing the beef with smoky flavor and keeping the burger exceptionally juicy.
Q: Why is 80/20 ground beef recommended
A: An 80/20 ground beef blend (80% lean, 20% fat) provides the perfect amount of fat to ensure a moist, flavorful, and tender burger that doesn’t dry out on the grill.
Q: What is the purpose of the dimple in the patty
A: Pressing a shallow dimple into the center of each patty helps it cook more evenly and prevents it from puffing up into a ball shape on the grill, ensuring a flat surface for your toppings.
Q: Can I make these bacon burgers on the stove
A: Yes, you can easily cook these in a pan. Heat a cast-iron or heavy-bottomed skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the patties for 3-5 minutes per side, or until they reach your preferred level of doneness.
