The Ultimate Sweet & Savory Bacon Blue Cheese Burger with Homemade Caramelized Onion Jam
Prepare to elevate your summer grilling experience with this truly unforgettable, sweet and savory Bacon Blue Cheese Burger. This isn’t just another burger; it’s a gourmet masterpiece featuring perfectly cooked ground beef patties, generously topped with pungent, crumbly blue cheese and a rich, slowly braised caramelized onion jam. The exquisite balance of salty bacon, tangy blue cheese, and deeply sweet onion jam creates an unparalleled explosion of flavors in every single bite, making it the perfect showstopper for your next backyard barbecue or a fantastic weeknight treat.
Looking to explore more exciting burger and sandwich creations? Don’t miss our vibrant My Big Fat Greek Chicken Burger for a Mediterranean twist, or indulge in the comforting richness of our Gruyere Grilled Cheese, a sophisticated take on a classic.
The Art of Sweet and Savory Burgers
The combination of sweet and savory elements in cuisine is a timeless and often magical pairing. In the realm of burgers, this dynamic duo creates an unforgettable taste sensation that tantalizes the palate. This Bacon Blue Cheese Burger exemplifies this principle perfectly, bringing together the smoky, salty crunch of bacon, the bold, tangy creaminess of blue cheese, and the deep, complex sweetness of caramelized onion jam. It’s a symphony of flavors and textures designed to impress even the most discerning burger aficionado.
During the warmer months, specifically in summer, my grill is almost always fired up, and burgers are a frequent visitor to the grate – often two or three times a week! To keep things exciting and ensure there’s always a delicious meal at hand, I often prepare a batch of homemade burger patties to keep in the freezer. This allows for spontaneous grilling sessions and ensures variety in our meals. While a classic cheeseburger is always welcome, I constantly seek out ways to innovate and bring new flavor profiles to the table. That’s why this Bacon Blue Cheese Burger is a consistent favorite, offering a departure from the ordinary. For other unique sweet and savory options, you might also enjoy a Goat Cheese Burger with Fig Jam, another fantastic blend of contrasting tastes.
When it comes to crafting the perfect beef burger, I have a distinct preference for topping the patty with cheese rather than incorporating it directly into the ground beef. The reason is simple: the texture of a perfectly seared ground beef patty remains superior and retains its integrity when not mixed with cheese. Stuffed beef burgers can sometimes become dense or have an uneven melt. However, I find that stuffing chicken burgers with cheese works beautifully, creating an incredibly moist and flavorful experience, much like our Gorgonzola Grilled Chicken Burger. These gourmet beef burgers are an excellent choice for a different weeknight meal, breaking the routine with their rich flavors. They pair wonderfully with lighter, fresh sides such as a crisp salad dressed with Traditional Caesar Dressing or a refreshing, cold Italian Green Bean Salad, providing a delightful contrast to the burger’s richness.
Essential Ingredient Notes and Flavorful Substitutions
Crafting a truly exceptional burger begins with understanding the role of each ingredient. Here’s a detailed look at the components that make this Bacon Blue Cheese Burger so special, along with useful notes and potential substitutions to adapt the recipe to your preferences or what you have on hand.
- Balsamic Vinegar. This dark, complex vinegar is a cornerstone of our onion jam, contributing a depth of flavor and a beautiful, rich color as the onions slowly cook down. Its inherent sweetness and acidity beautifully balance the other ingredients. If you need a substitute, white wine vinegar can offer a similar tanginess, or apple cider vinegar can provide a slightly fruitier note. However, be aware that these alternatives may not deliver the same dark hue or the specific sweet-tart profile that balsamic is known for.
- Bacon. For a burger of this caliber, you truly want to use thick-cut bacon. Thin bacon can get lost in the overall texture, but a substantial piece provides that satisfying crispy, salty counterpoint to the soft patty and jam. I personally love using dry-cured bacon for its intense flavor and superior crispiness, as it tends to have less water content. When cooking, allow the fat to render slowly to achieve maximum crispness and flavor, which will also provide the essential bacon grease for our onion jam.
- Blue Cheese Crumbles. Blue cheese is the star pungent element here, offering a creamy texture and that unmistakable, delicious “funky” flavor that contrasts wonderfully with the sweet onion jam and rich beef. Ensure you’re using actual blue cheese crumbles, not blue cheese dressing, which has a very different consistency and flavor profile. For those who might find traditional blue cheese too intense, gorgonzola is a fantastic, milder alternative with a creamy, slightly sweet character. Feta cheese could also work in a pinch if you prefer a salty, briny flavor over the blue cheese funk, though it will change the burger’s essence.
- Onion. Don’t be alarmed by the quantity; three medium onions may seem like a lot initially, but the magic of caramelization means they will cook down significantly, transforming into a dense, sweet, and savory jam. Sweet onions like Vidalias or Walla Wallas are ideal for onion jam due to their high sugar content, which facilitates the caramelization process, resulting in a richer, more profound sweetness. Yellow onions also work very well.
- Burgers (Ground Beef). The foundation of any great burger is quality ground beef. I highly recommend using 80/20 ground beef (80% lean, 20% fat) for the patties. This fat ratio provides the perfect balance of flavor and juiciness, preventing the burgers from drying out on the grill or in the pan. Leaner ground beef can result in a less flavorful and drier burger. For best results, pat out your burger patties ahead of time, ensuring they are of even thickness.
- Buns. While not explicitly listed with details in the original snippet, choosing the right bun is crucial. A brioche bun offers a buttery sweetness and soft texture that complements these gourmet toppings perfectly. Potato buns are also an excellent choice, providing a slight chew and stability. Always consider toasting your buns for a better textural experience and to prevent them from becoming soggy.
*Please see the recipe card below for more information on the ingredients, including specific quantities.
Crafting the PERFECT Bacon Blue Cheese Burger: A Step-by-Step Guide
This recipe for Bacon Blue Cheese Burgers with Caramelized Onion Jam is wonderfully versatile, allowing you to easily scale it up for a party or down for a cozy meal for two. The steps are straightforward, but patience, especially with the onion jam, is key to unlocking the incredible depth of flavor. Below, I’ve detailed the process for making 4 delicious burgers, utilizing 3 onions for our rich and flavorful jam.
Step 1: Prepare Your Burger Patties. Begin by forming your ground beef into patties of your desired size and thickness. For consistent cooking and to prevent the burgers from bulging, make a slight indentation in the center of each patty with your thumb. Season both sides generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper. It’s crucial to take the patties out of the fridge approximately 30 minutes before you plan to cook them. This allows the meat to come closer to room temperature, ensuring a more even cook from edge to center.
Step 2: Cook the Crispy Bacon. Achieving perfectly crispy bacon starts with a cold pan. Place the strips of thick-cut bacon in a cold pan, then bring the heat to medium. This method allows the fat to render slowly and evenly, resulting in wonderfully crisp bacon without burning. Fry the bacon, turning occasionally, until it reaches your desired level of crispiness. Whether you prefer to prepare your bacon in the oven or on the stovetop, ensure it’s cooked to a satisfying crunch. Once cooked, remove the bacon, reserving 2-3 tablespoons of the rendered bacon grease in the pan for the next step, as this liquid gold will form the flavor base for our onion jam. Place the crispy bacon on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess fat.
How to Make the Delectable Caramelized Onion Jam
Step 3: Sauté the Onions. Using the reserved 2-3 tablespoons of bacon grease in the pan, bring the heat to medium. Add your chopped onions to the pan. Sauté them, stirring occasionally, and season with a pinch of salt and pepper. Continue to cook for about 8-10 minutes, or until the onions have softened considerably and become translucent. This initial sautéing step starts the process of breaking down the onions and developing their foundational sweetness.
Step 4: Simmer and Caramelize. Stir in the balsamic vinegar, lemon juice, red wine vinegar, and sugar into the softened onions. Increase the heat slightly to bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Once simmering, reduce the heat to medium-low. This is where the magic happens – the onions will slowly braise, and the liquid will gradually reduce. You’ll observe the onions starting to get “jammy” in consistency, and the entire mixture will deepen in color to a rich, dark brown. This simmering process should take approximately 30-45 minutes. The key here is indeed patience. Resist the urge to rush it; slow cooking allows the sugars to caramelize properly, developing complex flavors and a smooth texture.
Step 5: Check for Jam Consistency. Continue to simmer the onion mixture, stirring more frequently as it thickens. You’ll know the jam is reaching perfection when you can drag a spoon through the sauce, and it slowly returns together, leaving a clear path for a few seconds. This indicates it has achieved the ideal thick, spreadable consistency.
Step 6: Finish the Onion Jam. Once the onion jam has reached the perfect thick, glossy consistency, as shown in the image above, remove the pan from the heat. Set it aside to cool slightly. The flavors will continue to meld and deepen as it rests.
Preparing and Assembling the Burger
Step 7: Cook the Burgers to Perfection. Now it’s time for the patties! You can either grill your burgers on a preheated grill at medium-high temperature for that smoky char, or cook them on a cast iron pan at medium temperature for an incredible crust. Cook to your desired doneness, flipping once. For medium-rare, aim for an internal temperature of 130-135°F (54-57°C); for medium, 135-140°F (57-60°C). Remember, the internal temperature will rise a few degrees after removing them from the heat.
Step 8: Melt the Blue Cheese. When the burgers are almost finished cooking – typically after you’ve flipped them once and they’re nearing your desired internal temperature – it’s time to add the blue cheese. Generously top each patty with blue cheese crumbles. If grilling, you can close the lid for a minute or two to help the cheese melt. If using a cast iron pan, you can cover the pan with a lid or even add a tablespoon of water and cover to create steam, which will quickly melt the cheese into a gooey, irresistible layer.
Step 9: Assemble and Serve. Toast your burger buns for added texture and to prevent sogginess. Spread a generous layer of the homemade caramelized onion jam on the bottom bun. Place the blue cheese-topped patty on top, followed by a few slices of crispy bacon. Add the top bun, and your magnificent Bacon Blue Cheese Burger is ready to be devoured! These decadent burgers are fantastic served with refreshing side dishes like a vibrant Caprese Tortellini Salad, a light Italian Green Bean Salad, or crispy Easy Italian Fried Green Tomatoes. For a truly perfect summer pairing, consider a cooling St. Germain Basil Cucumber Spritz – a delightful complement to the rich flavors of the burger!
Chef’s Pro-Tips for Success
To ensure your Bacon Blue Cheese Burgers turn out absolutely perfect every time, keep these expert tips in mind:
- Mastering the Onion Jam. The caramelized onion jam is the heart of this burger, but it requires your full attention. Onion jam contains a significant amount of sugar, making it prone to burning if left unattended. You must stir it often and diligently, especially as it thickens, to prevent the sugars from scorching and developing a bitter taste. Lower heat and consistent stirring are your best friends here. The reward for your patience will be a lusciously sweet and savory jam.
- Cooking Burgers on a Cast Iron Pan. While grilling offers wonderful char, a cast iron pan provides an unparalleled crust. If you opt to cook your burgers on a cast iron pan, I recommend using a slightly lower heat setting than you would for grilling. Cast iron retains and distributes heat incredibly efficiently, which can cause burgers to burn faster on direct contact. A medium heat allows for a beautiful sear without overcooking the interior or scorching the exterior.
- Prep Ahead for Parties. Hosting a gathering? The crispy bacon and the rich onion jam can be cooked ahead of time, making party preparation a breeze. Cook the bacon, let it cool, and store it in an airtight container at room temperature for a day or two, or in the fridge for up to a week. The onion jam can be prepared up to a week in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Both components can be gently reheated just before serving. Reheat bacon in a warm oven or quickly in a pan, and warm the jam over low heat on the stovetop, adding a splash of water if it’s too thick.
- Toast Your Buns. Don’t underestimate the power of a toasted bun! Lightly toasting your burger buns, whether on the grill, in a toaster, or briefly in the pan, adds a delightful textural contrast and creates a barrier that prevents the bun from becoming soggy from the juicy burger and onion jam. This small step significantly enhances the overall burger experience.
Recipe FAQs
When properly stored, homemade onion jam can last for an extended period. If you transfer the still-warm jam to an airtight container and immediately place that container into an ice bath to cool rapidly, it can safely last up to 7 days in the refrigerator. This rapid cooling method helps prevent bacterial growth, a technique often used in catering. If you allow it to cool slowly at room temperature, it’s generally best to consume it within 3-5 days for optimal freshness and safety.
For truly crispy and thick bacon, starting with fresh, high-quality bacon is paramount. Bacon sold shrink-wrapped often contains preservatives and added moisture, which can hinder crisping. Look for dry-cured, thick-cut bacon from a butcher or the deli counter. Dry-cured bacon has less moisture, allowing it to crisp up significantly better and render more flavorful fat. Cooking it slowly from a cold pan is also crucial to achieve that perfect crisp texture without burning.
Yes, absolutely! Onion jam freezes beautifully. Once it has completely cooled, transfer it to freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to use it, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and gently reheat it on the stovetop over low heat.
Several factors can help minimize burger shrinkage. First, don’t overwork the meat when forming patties; handle it gently to keep the fat evenly distributed. Second, making a small indentation in the center of the patty with your thumb helps prevent it from bulging and shrinking into a ball as it cooks. Finally, allowing the patties to come to room temperature for about 30 minutes before cooking promotes more even cooking and less dramatic shrinkage.
More Delectable Sliders and Sandwiches to Try
If you’ve enjoyed the gourmet experience of our Bacon Blue Cheese Burger, you’re in for a treat with these other incredible slider and sandwich recipes. Each offers a unique flavor profile and is perfect for various occasions, from casual weeknight dinners to impressive party spreads.
- Chicken Parm Sliders
- Crispy Fish Sliders
- Chopped Italian Sandwich
- Eggplant Parm Sandwich
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📖 Recipe
Bacon Blue Cheese Burger with Caramelized Onion Jam
Vincent DelGiudiceEquipment
- Grill or Cast Iron Pan
- Large Saucepan
Ingredients
For the Caramelized Onion Jam:
- 3 medium onions, chopped (preferably sweet onions like Vidalia or yellow onions)
- ½ cup balsamic vinegar
- 2 tbsp red wine vinegar
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For the Burgers:
- 1 lb thick-cut bacon
- 1.5 lbs ground beef, 80/20 or 85/15 lean
- 1 cup blue cheese crumbles (or Gorgonzola for a milder flavor)
- 4 burger buns (brioche or potato buns recommended)
- salt and freshly ground black pepper, for seasoning patties
Instructions
- Form your ground beef into 4-ounce burger patties, making a slight indentation in the center of each. Season both sides generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Remove your burgers from the fridge and let them sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before cooking for more even results.
- To cook the bacon, place the strips in a cold pan and bring the heat to medium. Fry the bacon, turning occasionally, until it is wonderfully crisp. You can prepare the bacon using your preferred method, whether that’s in the oven or on the stovetop. Once cooked, remove the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate to drain, but reserve 2-3 tablespoons of the rendered bacon grease in the pan.
- Using the reserved bacon grease, bring the heat to medium. Add the chopped onions to the pan and sauté, stirring occasionally, seasoning with a pinch of salt and pepper. Continue to sauté for about 8-10 minutes until the onions have softened and become translucent.
- Stir in the balsamic vinegar, lemon juice, red wine vinegar, and sugar into the softened onions. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer. Once simmering, lower the heat to medium-low and continue to simmer for 30-45 minutes. During this time, the onions will slowly begin to get “jammy” in texture, and the sauce will deepen in color. Remember, the key here is patience; slow cooking develops the richest flavors.
- Continue to simmer the onion jam, stirring more frequently as it thickens, until the sauce slowly returns together when you drag a spoon through it, leaving a momentary clear path. This indicates it has reached the ideal jam-like consistency. Remove from heat and set aside.
- Grill your burger patties on a preheated grill at medium-high temperature, or cook them on a cast iron pan at medium temperature, flipping once. When the burgers are almost finished cooking and have reached your desired internal temperature (e.g., 135-140°F for medium), generously top each with blue cheese crumbles. Allow the cheese to melt for 1-2 minutes until gooey.
- Toast your burger buns. Assemble your gourmet Bacon Blue Cheese Burgers by spreading a generous amount of onion jam on the bottom bun, adding the cheesy patty, followed by crispy bacon, and finally the top bun. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Notes
- Onion jam has a lot of sugar in it and requires you to pretty much stay in the kitchen the entire time it is cooking. You have to stir it often, especially as it thickens, because the sugar can quickly burn and impart a bitter flavor.
- If you cook the burgers on a cast iron pan, I like to go with a slightly lower heat than if I am grilling. The burgers tend to burn faster on the direct, intense heat from the cast iron pan, so medium heat is usually sufficient for a great sear without overcooking.
- The bacon and onion jam are excellent components to be cooked ahead of time. Store cooked bacon in an airtight container for up to 5 days, and the onion jam for up to 7 days in the refrigerator. They can both be easily reheated just before serving if you’re preparing these for a party.
- Don’t forget to toast your burger buns! This simple step adds texture and prevents the buns from becoming soggy, enhancing the overall burger experience.