Candied Bacon Maple Cheddar Burger
Try this mouthwatering Candied Bacon Maple Cheddar Burger with caramelized onions and homemade BBQ sauce!
Ingredients
- 1 pound applewood smoked bacon thick cut
- 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon granulated white sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
- 1 tablespoon pure maple syrup
- 1 large yellow onion thinly sliced
- 1 cup tomato ketchup
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1/2 cup pure maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 1/2 teaspoons hot sauce e.g., Chipotle Tabasco
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 2 pounds ground beef preferably 80/20
- 2 teaspoons sea salt
- 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 8 slices sharp cheddar cheese
- 8 burger buns toasted if preferred
Instructions
- Begin with preparing the candied bacon.
- Preheat the oven to 375°F. Line a large baking sheet with foil and place a baking rack on top (a cooling rack works well too).
- In a small bowl, combine brown sugar and black pepper.
- Arrange bacon strips on the rack. Evenly sprinkle the sugar mixture over the bacon.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, turning the pan halfway through the cooking time.
- Once done, take the pan out of the oven and let the bacon cool on the rack.
- In a medium skillet over medium-low heat, melt the butter. Add the sliced onions, salt, and sugar. Cook for 20-25 minutes until the onions are golden and tender.
- Combine all BBQ sauce ingredients in a small saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 20-30 minutes, stirring often. Allow the sauce to cool.
- Mix the ground beef with salt and pepper in a bowl. Divide into 8 portions and shape into patties.
- Grill the patties for 4-5 minutes per side.
- Top each burger with a slice of cheddar cheese and let it melt. Remove from the grill and assemble with BBQ sauce, caramelized onions, and candied bacon.