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Flavorful Whiskey Bacon Burger Recipe with Perfect Caramelized Onions Made Easy

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A juicy whiskey bacon burger with a sticky whiskey glaze, crispy bacon, and slow-cooked caramelized onions, perfect for a quick and indulgent weeknight meal.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound (450g) ground beef (80/20 blend)
  • 6 slices thick-cut bacon
  • 1/4 cup (60ml) whiskey (preferably smooth bourbon like Maker’s Mark)
  • 2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 4 slices cheddar cheese
  • 4 sturdy burger buns (brioche recommended)
  • Optional toppings: lettuce, tomato, pickles, favorite condiments

Instructions

  1. Caramelize the onions: Heat 2 tablespoons unsalted butter in a skillet over medium-low heat. Add thinly sliced onions and sprinkle 1 tablespoon brown sugar. Stir to coat and cook slowly, stirring every 5 minutes until deep golden brown and fragrant (about 25-30 minutes). Add a splash of water if onions stick. Season with salt and set aside.
  2. Cook the bacon in a separate pan over medium heat until crisp (about 10 minutes). Drain on paper towels and roughly chop once cooled.
  3. Prepare the whiskey glaze: In a small saucepan, simmer 1/4 cup whiskey over medium heat until reduced by half (5-7 minutes). Set aside to cool slightly.
  4. Mix the burger patties: In a mixing bowl, combine ground beef, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Add half of the whiskey glaze and fold in chopped bacon gently to avoid overmixing.
  5. Form 4 equal patties (about 4 oz / 113g each), slightly larger than buns to allow for shrinkage.
  6. Cook the burgers: Heat cast iron skillet or grill over medium-high heat. Cook patties 5-6 minutes per side for medium doneness, brushing remaining whiskey glaze on top during last 2 minutes. Add a slice of cheddar cheese on each patty and cover to melt.
  7. Toast the buns lightly in butter on a pan while burgers cook.
  8. Assemble the burgers: Spread caramelized onions on bottom bun, place burger patty with melted cheese, add optional toppings, and top with the bun. Serve immediately.

Notes

Use a cast iron skillet for best caramelization and crust on burgers. Stir onions often and keep heat low to avoid burning. Rest patties after cooking to retain juices. For gluten-free, swap buns; for dairy-free, use olive oil instead of butter and skip or substitute cheese. Whiskey glaze reduces alcohol content by simmering.

Nutrition

Keywords: whiskey bacon burger, caramelized onions, whiskey glaze, bacon burger recipe, easy burger recipe, comfort food, bourbon burger

Find it online: https://zorbmeal.com/flavorful-whiskey-bacon-burger-recipe-with-perfect-caramelized-onions-made-easy/