Bourbon BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger – Juicy, Smoky, and Packed with Flavor

There’s nothing quite like biting into a perfectly stacked burger, and this Bourbon BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger takes things to the next level. Juicy beef patties, smoky bacon, melty cheese, and a rich bourbon barbecue sauce all come together in a burger that’s bold, messy, and absolutely delicious.

This isn’t your average cheeseburger. The homemade bourbon BBQ sauce adds a smoky-sweet flavor with just the right kick from the bourbon, while crispy bacon brings that salty crunch every great burger needs. Top it off with gooey cheddar or pepper jack cheese, and you’ve got the kind of burger that satisfies cravings and impresses at the same time.

Perfect for grilling season, game days, or just a weekend treat, this Bourbon BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger is hearty enough to stand on its own but pairs beautifully with fries, onion rings, or a crisp salad. It’s the kind of recipe that proves homemade burgers can beat anything from a restaurant.

If you’re looking for a burger that’s indulgent, flavorful, and unforgettable, this one’s for you.

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What Makes This Bourbon BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Special?

• Homemade Bourbon BBQ Sauce: Sweet, smoky, and slightly boozy, it takes this burger up a notch.

• Juicy Beef Patties: Made with an 80/20 blend for the perfect balance of flavor and tenderness.

• Crispy Bacon: Adds savory crunch to every bite.

• Melty Cheese: Sharp cheddar or pepper jack gives that gooey, indulgent finish.

• Better Than Restaurant: Simple to make at home, yet tastes like a gourmet burger.

This burger is big, bold, and guaranteed to make anyone at the table happy.

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Ingredient Notes

• Ground beef: Use 80/20 for juicy burgers. Leaner meat may dry out.

• Bacon: Thick-cut works best for crispy texture.

• Cheese: Sharp cheddar, pepper jack, or smoked gouda all melt beautifully.

• Bourbon BBQ sauce: A mix of bourbon, ketchup, brown sugar, Worcestershire, and spices creates smoky-sweet flavor.

• Burger buns: Brioche buns hold up well and add slight sweetness.

• Toppings: Lettuce, tomato, and red onion add freshness to balance richness.

• Seasonings: Salt, pepper, and a little garlic powder keep the beef flavorful.

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How To Make Bourbon BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger

1. Make the bourbon BBQ sauce: In a saucepan, combine 1 cup ketchup, ½ cup bourbon, ¼ cup brown sugar, 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce, 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar, and 1 tsp smoked paprika. Simmer over medium heat 15 minutes until thickened. Set aside.

2. Cook the bacon: In a skillet or oven, cook 8 slices thick-cut bacon until crispy. Drain on paper towels.

3. Form and season patties: Shape 2 lbs ground beef into 6 patties. Season generously with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.

4. Cook the burgers: Grill or pan-sear over medium-high heat 4–5 minutes per side (for medium doneness). In the last minute, top with cheese and cover until melted.

5. Toast the buns: Lightly butter and toast buns on the grill or skillet until golden.

6. Assemble the burgers: Spread bourbon BBQ sauce on the bottom bun, add lettuce and tomato, then the burger patty with melted cheese, followed by bacon, onions, and more sauce. Top with the bun and serve.

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Storage Options

• Room temperature: Best eaten fresh, but cooked patties can sit out up to 2 hours.

• Refrigeration: Store leftover patties up to 3 days in an airtight container. Keep sauce separately.

• Freezing: Uncooked patties freeze well up to 2 months. Cook from frozen or thaw overnight.

• Reheating: Warm patties gently in a skillet or oven; reheat sauce on the stove. Avoid microwaving buns.

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Variations and Substitutions

• Use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter burger.

• Swap cheddar for blue cheese or smoked gouda for a flavor twist.

• Add caramelized onions or sautéed mushrooms for extra richness.

• Make it spicy with jalapeños or hot sauce in the bourbon BBQ sauce.

• Use pretzel buns for a chewy, salty upgrade.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make the bourbon BBQ sauce ahead?
Yes! Store it in the fridge up to 1 week, or freeze for longer.

Can I cook the burgers in a skillet instead of grilling?
Absolutely. A cast-iron skillet works great and gives a nice sear.

Do I have to use bourbon?
No, you can leave it out or replace with apple juice for sweetness.

What’s the best cheese for this burger?
Sharp cheddar for classic flavor, or pepper jack if you like spice.

How do I keep burgers juicy?
Don’t overmix the beef, and avoid pressing down on the patties while cooking.

Can I prep these ahead for a party?
Yes. Form patties and make the sauce ahead. Cook right before serving.

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Conclusion

The Bourbon BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger is not just a meal—it’s an experience. Juicy beef, smoky bacon, melty cheese, and a bourbon-kissed barbecue sauce create layers of flavor that will make this your new favorite burger. Perfect for cookouts, game days, or simply when you’re craving something indulgent, this burger delivers every time. Try it once, and it’ll be on repeat in your kitchen.

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