Prepare to elevate your burger game with this Maple Bourbon Bacon Cheeseburger Melt! This epic sandwich is a fusion of sweet, savory, and smoky flavors that will have your taste buds dancing. From the caramelized onions to the crispy bacon and melty cheese, every bite is a flavor explosion that’s sure to become a new family favorite.
Why You’ll Love This Maple Bourbon Bacon Cheeseburger Melt
This Maple Bourbon Bacon Cheeseburger Melt is the ultimate comfort food that’s perfect for cozy nights in or backyard barbecues. The juicy beef patty is infused with a smoky-sweet bourbon glaze, while the crispy bacon and melted cheese create a lush, indulgent texture. The addition of caramelized onions and a zesty sauce ties it all together for a truly craveable and satisfying meal. Prepare to be wowed by the harmonious blend of flavors in every bite!
Ingredients
The key ingredients for this Maple Bourbon Bacon Cheeseburger Melt include ground beef, bourbon, maple syrup, bacon, cheese, onions, and a few simple condiments. The combination of these classic burger elements creates a flavor profile that’s both familiar and elevated.
- 1 lb – Ground beef
- 2 tbsp – Bourbon
- 2 tbsp – Maple syrup
- 6 slices – Bacon, cooked until crispy
- 4 slices – Cheddar cheese
- 1 onion, sliced – Caramelized onions
Ingredient Substitutions
- Cheese: Cheddar, Swiss, or pepper jack (for a variety of melty, flavorful options)
- Patty: Turkey or plant-based patties (for a healthier twist)
How to Make Maple Bourbon Bacon Cheeseburger Melt
The key to this Maple Bourbon Bacon Cheeseburger Melt is the preparation of the individual components, which come together for an unbeatable flavor experience.
Step 1: Prep Work
Start by cooking the bacon until crispy, then set it aside. In the same pan, sauté the onions until they’re caramelized and golden brown. Create the bourbon glaze by combining bourbon, maple syrup, Dijon mustard, and seasonings in a small bowl.
Step 2: Main Cooking Process
Form the ground beef into patties and season them with the bourbon glaze. Grill or pan-fry the patties until they’re cooked to your desired doneness. During the last minute of cooking, top the patties with the melted cheese.
Step 3: Final Steps/Assembly
Toast the buns, then layer the cheeseburger patty, crispy bacon, and caramelized onions. Drizzle the remaining bourbon glaze over the top for an extra burst of flavor.
Recipe Variations & Tips
- Extra Toppings: Consider adding avocado, pickled jalapeños, or a fried egg for even more flavor and texture.
- Bun Swap: Try different types of buns, such as brioche or onion rolls, to complement the flavors.
- Side Dishes: Serve the Maple Bourbon Bacon Cheeseburger Melt with crispy fries or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
- Customize the Bourbon Glaze: Adjust the ratio of bourbon to maple syrup to suit your taste preferences.
Serving & Storage
Serve with: Crispy fries, a fresh salad, or your favorite side dishes.
Storage: Store any leftover components separately in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat the patties and assemble the sandwiches when ready to serve.
Reheat: You can reheat the patties in the oven, on the stove, or in the microwave until heated through.
Make-Ahead: The patties and caramelized onions can be prepared in advance, making assembly a breeze when you’re ready to serve.
Nutrition Information
This Maple Bourbon Bacon Cheeseburger Melt is a hearty and satisfying meal, with the protein-packed beef patty, smoky bacon, and melty cheese providing a nutritious base. While it’s an indulgent dish, it can be enjoyed as part of a balanced diet when consumed in moderation.
- Serving Size: 1 cheeseburger melt
- Calories: 690 kcal
- Protein: 37 g
- Carbs: 42 g
- Fat: 43 g
- Sodium: 1,120 mg
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of bourbon works best for this recipe?
For the best flavor, choose a high-quality bourbon with notes of caramel, vanilla, and oak. Avoid overly smoky or spicy bourbons, as they may overpower the other ingredients.
Can I make the patties ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the patties in advance and store them in the refrigerator until ready to cook. Just be sure to form them and season with the bourbon glaze right before grilling or pan-frying.
How do I prevent the cheese from becoming stringy or greasy?
To avoid stringy or greasy cheese, be sure to add it to the patties during the last minute of cooking. This allows the cheese to melt just enough without becoming overly melted and separated.
Can I make this recipe without alcohol?
Absolutely! You can easily substitute the bourbon with an equal amount of apple juice or beef broth to achieve a similar flavor profile without the alcohol.
What are some side dish ideas to serve with this Maple Bourbon Bacon Cheeseburger Melt?
This epic sandwich pairs beautifully with crispy fries, a fresh garden salad, or even a creamy coleslaw. For a heartier meal, you could also serve it with roasted sweet potato wedges or a side of baked beans.
Try These Next
- Pumpkin Maple Bacon Cheeseburger Delight
- Maple Bacon Cheddar Burger Melt
- Pumpkin Spice Maple Bacon Cheeseburger
Maple Bourbon Bacon Cheeseburger Melt
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: 🍔 Epic Burgers & Melts
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
Description
A deliciously indulgent cheeseburger melt featuring a sweet and smoky maple bourbon bacon topping.
Ingredients
1 lb ground beef
1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
4 slices bacon
2 tbsp maple syrup
1 tbsp bourbon
1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
1 tsp black pepper
1 tsp garlic powder
4 slices of bread
Butter for grilling
Instructions
1. 1. In a skillet, cook bacon until crispy. Remove and chop into pieces.
2. 2. In a bowl, mix ground beef, black pepper, garlic powder, and cooked bacon.
3. 3. Form patties and grill until cooked to desired doneness.
4. 4. In the same skillet, combine maple syrup, bourbon, and Worcestershire sauce. Simmer to thicken.
5. 5. Place a patty on a slice of bread, top with cheddar cheese, and drizzle with the bourbon sauce.
6. 6. Top with another slice of bread and butter the outside.
7. 7. Grill the sandwich on medium heat until golden brown and the cheese is melted.
8. 8. Slice in half and serve hot.
Notes
Feel free to customize the toppings! Try adding caramelized onions or jalapeños for an extra kick.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 sandwich
- Calories: 650 kcal
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 900mg
- Fat: 40g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 20g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
Keywords: burger, melt, bacon, bourbon, cheese