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Bacon, Onion, And Cheddar Stuffed Burgers

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  • #111526

Putting toppings on top of your burger is so last year. How about throwing all those fried onions and all that cheese inside the patty for an explosion of flavor?


serves/makes:
  
ready in:
  under 30 minutes

ingredients

3 pounds ground beef
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
3 tablespoons barbecue sauce
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 pound sliced bacon
1 medium onion, finely chopped (more for topping if desired)
3/4 cup shredded Cheddar cheese
6 hamburger buns, split, toasted if desired

directions

Combine the ground beef, salt, pepper, barbecue sauce, and garlic powder in a bowl. Mix well but do not overwork the meat.

Divide the meat into 1/4-pound size pieces and form each into a patty. Place in a single layer on a platter or baking sheet and cover with plastic wrap. Place in the refrigerator while you prepare the rest of the recipe.

Cook the bacon in a deep skillet over medium-high heat. Turn, as needed, until evenly browned on both sides. Remove from the skillet and let drain on paper toweling. Do not drain the grease from the skillet.

Reduce the heat to medium and add the onions to the bacon grease. Let cook, stirring frequently, until soft and barely browned. Remove the onions with a slotted spoon, letting as much grease drip off as possible.

Place the onions in a bowl. Crumble or chop the bacon and add to the onions.

Heat a grill to medium-high heat, or heat a skillet on the stovetop.

Remove the burger patties from the refrigerator. Place 1 1/2 tablespoons of the onion/bacon mixture on top of half of the burger patties. Sprinkle with the shredded Cheddar cheese. Place the remaining patties on top of the cheese and press the edges together firmly to seal the filling inside.

Place the burgers on the grill or in the skillet. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side or until the beef is cooked to the desired doneness.

Serve immediately on buns with condiments of your choice.

Pro tip, make extra onions in the remaining bacon grease while the burgers are cooking to place on top of the burgers along with your condiments.

recipe tips


To prevent the burgers from puffing up in the middle while cooking, make a slight indentation in the center of each patty before grilling.

Try different fillings like sauteed mushrooms, blue cheese, or jalapenos for variety.

For a smokier flavor, use smoked Cheddar or adding a touch of liquid smoke to the ground beef mixture.

Don't skip toasting the buns before assembling the burgers - it adds a nice texture and prevents the buns from getting soggy from the juicy burgers.

If grilling outdoors, oil the grates well to prevent the burgers from sticking during cooking.

For a juicier burger, avoid pressing down on the patties while they're cooking, as this will release valuable juices (and possibly cause the filling to leak out).

common recipe questions


What is the purpose of adding barbecue sauce to the ground beef?

Barbecue sauce adds flavor and moisture to the ground beef.

Why is it important not to overwork the meat when mixing the ingredients?

Overworking the meat can result in tough or crumbly burger patties.

Can I use a different type of cheese instead of Cheddar?

You can try different types of cheese. Swiss, blue cheese, or pepper jack are great options.

How do I make sure the bacon stays crispy inside the burger?

Cooking the bacon until it's crispy before adding it to the burgers will help maintain its texture inside the patties.

Can I prepare the burger patties in advance?

You can prepare the burger patties ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator until you're ready to cook them.

How should I cook the stuffed burgers without losing the filling?

Pressing the edges of the patties firmly together will help seal the filling inside, preventing it from leaking out during cooking. Also make sure that you don't press down on the burgers while they are cooking.

What can I serve as condiments with these stuffed burgers?

Traditional condiments like lettuce, tomatoes, ketchup, mustard, and pickles pair well with these burgers. Get creative with your toppings!

How should I store leftover stuffed burgers?

Store any leftover stuffed burgers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Reheat gently to maintain their juiciness.

Can I freeze the uncooked stuffed burger patties?

You can freeze the uncooked stuffed burger patties. Place them on a baking sheet until frozen solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before cooking.

tools needed


Sharp Knife: For finely chopping the onion to mix into the ground beef mixture and for cutting the cooked bacon into small pieces to combine with the onions as a stuffing for the burgers.

Grill or Skillet: A grill or stovetop skillet is needed to cook the bacon, onions, and stuffed burgers. Make sure it is preheated to the correct temperature before adding the ingredients.

Measuring Cups and Spoons: For measuring the various ingredients such as the barbecue sauce, garlic powder, and cheese.

Platter or Baking Sheet: To hold the formed burger patties while they chill in the refrigerator, allowing the flavors to meld together for a more delicious burger.

Plastic Wrap: To cover the burger patties while they chill in the refrigerator, preventing them from drying out.

Slotted Spoon: For removing the cooked onions from the skillet and letting any excess grease drip off before mixing them with the bacon.

what goes with it?


Onion Rings: these crunchy, flavorful rings will add an extra punch of oniony goodness to complement the stuffed burger.

Loaded Fries: top your crispy fries with even more bacon and cheese for a side dish that will make your taste buds do a happy dance.

Spicy Pickles: the tangy, spicy kick of pickles will cut through the richness of the burger and add a refreshing contrast.

Crispy Parmesan Truffle Fries: These fancy fries will add a touch of sophistication to your already indulgent burger.

Smoky Chipotle Mayo: Add a kick of spice to your burger with some smoky chipotle mayo. The smokiness will complement the crispy bacon and the cheesy goodness of the stuffed burger.

beverage pairings


Wine Pairings
Malbec: The bold flavors of a Malbec can stand up to the richness of the bacon, onions, and cheddar in these stuffed burgers. Look for one with notes of blackberry and plum to complement the savory elements of the dish.

Merlot: A smooth, medium-bodied Merlot can bring out the smoky flavors of the bacon and the sharpness of the cheddar. Look for one with hints of cherry and chocolate.

Pinot Grigio: If you prefer white wine, a crisp Pinot Grigio can provide a refreshing contrast to the savory stuffed burgers. Look for one with citrus and green apple notes to balance the richness of the dish.

Other Alcohol Pairings
IPA: The hoppy bitterness of an IPA can cut through the richness of the bacon and cheese, while the citrus and pine notes can enhance the flavors of the dish. Look for a well-balanced IPA for the best pairing.

Moscow Mule: The ginger and lime flavors in a Moscow Mule can add a zesty kick to the savory and cheesy stuffed burgers.

Bourbon: A smooth bourbon can complement the smoky bacon and sharp cheddar in the stuffed burgers. Look for a bourbon with caramel and vanilla notes to enhance the flavors of the dish.

Non-Alcoholic Pairings
Root Beer: The sweet and slightly herbal notes of root beer can pair wonderfully with the savory stuffed burgers, creating a nostalgic and flavorful combination. Look for a root beer with natural ingredients for the best taste.

Iced Coffee: The bold and slightly bitter flavors of iced coffee can provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the bacon, onions, and cheddar in the stuffed burgers. Look for a cold brew with chocolate and nutty notes.

Lemonade: The tartness of lemonade can cut through the richness of the stuffed burgers, providing a bright and zesty balance to the savory flavors. Look for a lemonade with real lemon juice.


nutrition data

1011 calories, 73 grams fat, 25 grams carbohydrates, 59 grams protein per serving.
Show full nutritional data (including Weight Watcher's Points ®, cholesterol, sodium, vitamins, and diabetic exchanges)


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