Prepare to embark on a flavor journey with this Apple Cider Bacon Cheddar Burger — a delightful fusion of sweet, savory, and smoky elements that will elevate your backyard grilling game. This epic burger is a true taste bud delight, bringing together the cozy comfort of apple cider, the crispy crunch of bacon, and the melty goodness of cheddar cheese. Get ready to indulge in a mouthwatering masterpiece that’s perfect for any casual gathering or cozy night in.
Why You’ll Love This Apple Cider Bacon Cheddar Burger
This Apple Cider Bacon Cheddar Burger is a true flavor powerhouse that will have your taste buds dancing with delight. The juicy patty is infused with the warm, zesty notes of apple cider, creating a delightful balance of sweet and savory. The smoky, crispy bacon adds a delectable crunch, while the melty cheddar cheese ties everything together for a truly indulgent and satisfying bite. This burger is the epitome of comfort food, perfect for those moments when you crave something hearty, flavorful, and oh-so-satisfying.
Ingredients
To create this epic Apple Cider Bacon Cheddar Burger, you’ll need a few key ingredients: ground beef, apple cider, bacon, cheddar cheese, and a few pantry staples like salt, pepper, and your favorite burger buns. The combination of these flavors is what makes this burger truly special and craveable.
- 1 lb – Ground beef
- 1/2 cup – Apple cider
- 8 slices – Bacon, cooked until crispy
- 4 slices – Cheddar cheese
- 4 – Burger buns
Ingredient Substitutions
- Cheese: Feel free to swap in your favorite melty cheese, such as Swiss or pepper jack.
- Protein: For a vegetarian option, you can substitute the ground beef with a plant-based patty.
How to Make Apple Cider Bacon Cheddar Burger
Follow these simple steps to create your own delicious Apple Cider Bacon Cheddar Burger at home.
Step 1: Prep Work
Begin by cooking the bacon until it’s crispy and golden brown. Drain the bacon on a paper towel-lined plate, reserving the bacon fat for later use. In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, apple cider, salt, and pepper, mixing gently until just combined. Divide the mixture into equal-sized patties, being careful not to overwork the meat.
Step 2: Main Cooking Process
Preheat your grill or a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add a bit of the reserved bacon fat or a drizzle of oil to the hot surface. Carefully place the patties on the grill or in the skillet and cook for 4-5 minutes per side, or until they reach your desired level of doneness.
Step 3: Final Steps/Assembly
During the last minute of cooking, top each patty with a slice of cheddar cheese and let it melt. Toast your burger buns until they’re warm and slightly crispy. To assemble the burgers, place the cheesy patties on the bottom buns, top with the crispy bacon, and finish with the top buns.
Recipe Variations & Tips
- Flavor Boost: For an extra burst of flavor, consider brushing the patties with a glaze made from apple cider and a touch of honey or brown sugar during the last minute of cooking.
- Toppings: You can also add sautéed onions or mushrooms for added depth and texture.
- Cheese Swap: If you’re feeling adventurous, try swapping the cheddar for a smoky, melty cheese like pepper jack or Gouda.
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute the ground beef with a plant-based patty for a delicious meatless burger.
Serving & Storage
Serve with: Crisp lettuce, juicy tomatoes, and tangy pickles.
Storage: Any leftover patties can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat: Leftover patties can be reheated in the microwave or on the grill before assembling.
Make-Ahead: You can prepare the patties in advance and store them in the refrigerator for up to 2 days before cooking.
Nutrition Information
This Apple Cider Bacon Cheddar Burger is a hearty and satisfying dish, but it’s important to enjoy it in moderation as part of a balanced diet. Each burger contains approximately 500 calories, 30 grams of fat, and 35 grams of protein, making it a filling and nutritious option for your next backyard BBQ or cozy night in.
- Serving Size: 1 burger
- Calories: 500 kcal
- Protein: 35 g
- Carbs: 40 g
- Fat: 30 g
- Sodium: 800 mg
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make the patties ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the patties in advance and store them in the refrigerator for up to 2 days before cooking. This can be a great time-saver when you’re hosting a gathering.
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! While cheddar is the classic choice, you can experiment with other melty cheeses like Swiss, pepper jack, or even a smoky Gouda for a unique twist.
How do I get the perfect sear on the patties?
To achieve a delicious sear, make sure your grill or skillet is blazing hot before adding the patties. Avoid moving the patties too much during cooking, and resist the urge to press down on them, as this can release the juices.
Can I make this burger vegetarian?
Yes, you can easily make a vegetarian version of this burger by substituting the ground beef with a plant-based patty. The apple cider and bacon flavors will still shine through, creating a delicious meatless option.
What sides pair well with this burger?
This Apple Cider Bacon Cheddar Burger pairs perfectly with crispy, golden fries, a fresh and crunchy coleslaw, or a simple side salad to balance out the richness of the dish.
Try These Next
- Gooey Cheddar Stuffed Bbq Bacon Burgers
- Harvest Maple Bacon Burger With Spiced Apple Slaw
- Maple Bacon Cheddar Burger Melt
Indulgent Apple Cider Bacon Cheddar Burger
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: 🍔 Epic Burgers & Melts
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Apple Cider Bacon Cheddar Burger combines the savory flavors of grilled beef, crispy bacon, and melted cheddar cheese with a sweet and tangy apple cider glaze. Perfect for a fall cookout!
Ingredients
– 1 pound ground beef
– 4 slices of bacon
– 4 slices of cheddar cheese
– 4 hamburger buns
– 1/4 cup apple cider
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Lettuce, tomato, and onion for toppings
Instructions
1.
2. 1. In a skillet, cook the bacon until crispy. Remove and drain on paper towels.
3. 2. In a small saucepan, combine apple cider, brown sugar, and Dijon mustard. Bring to a boil and simmer until slightly thickened, about 5 minutes.
4. 3. Season the ground beef with salt and pepper, then form into 4 patties.
5. 4. Grill the patties over medium heat for about 5 minutes per side, adding a slice of cheddar cheese during the last minute of cooking.
6. 5. Toast the hamburger buns on the grill for 1-2 minutes.
7. 6. Assemble the burgers: place the beef patty on the bun, top with bacon, drizzle with the apple cider glaze, and add lettuce, tomato, and onion as desired.
Notes
– For a spicier kick, add some jalapeños.
– You can use turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter option.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 burger
- Calories: 550 kcal
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
Keywords: burger, bacon, cheddar, apple cider