Grilled Bacon Bourbon Burgers

What's the Secret to Making a Great Bourbon Burger?

Instead of simply grilling a beef patty and adding toppings, this recipe uses bourbon in two different ways. First, the onions are cooked with bourbon and balsamic vinegar, creating a sweet and savory topping. Then, a homemade bourbon sauce is simmered until thick and rich, adding even more flavor to every bite.

I love creating burger recipes that taste like backyard grilling and steakhouse comfort food rolled into one. Best of all, they're super easy to put together, making it a great choice for both weeknight dinners and family cookouts. 

Wouldn't Dad love one of these bacon burgers on Father's Day? And, if you make them for your 4th of July celebration, you'll be the hit of the party! Serve them with a side of slow cooker cowboy beans and a heaping bowl of creamy coleslaw, and you've got the perfect southern meal.

Ingredient Notes

Below are some of the main ingredients you'll need to make these juicy cheeseburgers. For the entire list with quantities, see the printable recipe card.

• Bacon: Adds smoky, savory flavor and a delicious texture that pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the bourbon sauce.
• Ground Beef: Creates juicy, flavorful burgers while remaining lean enough to hold together well on the grill.
• Olive Oil: Helps cook the onions evenly and prevents sticking while adding a subtle richness.
• Onion: Becomes sweet and tender as it cooks, adding depth and incredible flavor to the burgers.
• Bourbon: Brings a rich, slightly sweet, smoky flavor that elevates both the onions and the homemade sauce.
• White Cheddar or Gouda Cheese: Melts beautifully and adds a creamy, rich finish that pairs wonderfully with the bourbon flavors.
• Brioche Buns or Hamburger Buns: Provide the perfect foundation for holding all the flavorful burger toppings while adding a satisfying texture.

How to Make Bourbon Burgers

1 - Cook the bacon in a large skillet over medium heat. Remove and drain on paper towels. Pour out the bacon grease, leaving the skillet unwashed. Heat olive oil in the same skillet. Add the sliced onions and cook until browned and tender, stirring occasionally.

2 - Add 3 tablespoons bourbon and the balsamic vinegar to the onions. Cook for about 2 minutes until most of the liquid has evaporated. Remove from the skillet and allow the mixture to cool for 5 minutes.

3 - In a small saucepan, combine the remaining 2 tablespoons bourbon, ketchup, Dijon mustard, honey, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, and garlic powder. Bring the sauce to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring frequently, until thickened. Remove from heat.

4 - Coarsely chop about one quarter of the cooled onion mixture and mix it into the ground beef. Divide the beef mixture into 4 equal portions and shape into ½-inch-thick patties. Press a thumb-sized indentation into the center of each patty. Season with salt and pepper.

5 - Preheat a grill to medium-high heat and lightly oil the grates. Grill the patties for approximately 4 minutes per side, or until they reach your preferred level of doneness.

6 - To assemble, spread the bourbon sauce generously on both halves of each bun. Place a burger patty on the bottom bun, followed by a slice of cheese if using, a portion of the remaining onion mixture, and one slice of bacon cut in half. Top with the remaining bun. Serve immediately and enjoy.

Serving Ideas

• Serve with loaded french fries for a classic burger meal.
• Pair with red skin potato salad for an easy backyard cookout.
• Add garlic bread on the side for an extra hearty dinner.
• Serve with southern coleslaw, smoked baked beans, or a rainbow salad.

Variations

• Leave off the bacon, or add other toppings like mushrooms.
• Skip the cheese or choose your favorite variety.
• Try smoked Gouda, sharp cheddar, or pepper jack cheese.
• Toast the buns for extra texture or serve them soft if preferred.

Helpful Tips

1. Cook the onions slowly to develop the best flavor.
2. Prepare the bacon, onion mixture, and bourbon sauce ahead of time to save time on grilling day.
3. Do not skip the indentation in the burger patties as it helps them cook evenly.

Recipe FAQ

Storage Guide

• Store leftover burgers tightly covered in the refrigerator for 2 to 3 days.
• For best results, store burger patties, toppings, and buns separately.
• Reheat patties in a skillet or microwave until heated through.
• The bourbon sauce can be refrigerated in an airtight container and used on burgers, sandwiches, or grilled meats.