Looking for the perfect burger that combines the best of bacon and meatloaf? Chef John’s Grilled Bacon Meatloaf Burgers are a juicy, flavorful masterpiece that brings together two of the most delicious comfort foods. The combination of beef and pork topped with crispy bacon and grilled to perfection will make every bite unforgettable. Whether you’re hosting a BBQ or just craving a delicious homemade burger, this recipe is sure to impress your guests.
These grilled bacon meatloaf burgers are packed with flavor from every layer. The blend of seasoned beef and pork, combined with crispy bacon, makes them a mouthwatering treat for any occasion. They’re easy to make and perfect for any grill enthusiast or food lover looking to spice up their burger game. The meatloaf twist adds a unique twist to your typical burger, and once you’ve tried these, they’ll quickly become your go-to grilling recipe.
Full Recipe:
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1 1/2 pounds ground beef
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1/2 pound ground pork
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8 slices bacon
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1/4 cup finely chopped onion
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1 clove garlic, minced
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1/4 cup milk
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1/2 cup breadcrumbs
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1 large egg
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1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
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Salt and black pepper to taste
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4 hamburger buns
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Ketchup, mustard, or your favorite condiments
Directions:
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Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
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Cook bacon in a large skillet over medium heat until crispy. Remove bacon and set aside on paper towels to drain. Chop the bacon into small pieces.
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In a large bowl, combine ground beef, ground pork, chopped bacon, onion, garlic, milk, breadcrumbs, egg, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix until evenly combined.
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Form the meat mixture into 4 equal-sized patties.
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Grill the patties on preheated grill for 4-5 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
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Toast the hamburger buns on the grill for about 1 minute or until lightly browned.
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Assemble the burgers by placing a patty on each bun. Add ketchup, mustard, or any condiments you like.
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Serve immediately with your favorite sides.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes | Total Time: 20-22 minutes
Kcal: 530 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
Introduction to Grilled Bacon Meatloaf Burgers
When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can compete with the delicious combination of a juicy burger and the rich flavors of meatloaf. Grilled Bacon Meatloaf Burgers take this perfect pairing to the next level by combining the best of both worlds: the savory goodness of ground beef and pork, enhanced with crispy bacon and grilled to perfection. This burger recipe has quickly gained popularity for its mouthwatering flavor profile and tender texture, making it an ideal choice for grilling enthusiasts and burger lovers alike. Whether you’re hosting a BBQ, enjoying a family meal, or simply craving something satisfying, these grilled bacon meatloaf burgers are a must-try.
A Unique Take on Classic Burgers
At first glance, you might think this recipe is just another bacon burger, but there’s a unique twist that makes it stand out: the inclusion of meatloaf elements. Traditional meatloaf, often made with a blend of beef and pork, provides a dense and flavorful base for the patty. However, by grilling the meatloaf mixture, it transforms into something completely new—a juicy, smoky burger with a hearty bite and a savory, caramelized exterior. The addition of crispy bacon elevates the flavor profile even further, creating a delightful contrast of textures with the rich, meaty patty.
This recipe is a perfect blend of comfort food with a twist, combining two familiar favorites into one unforgettable dish. The meatloaf ingredients—beef, pork, breadcrumbs, milk, and Worcestershire sauce—are all combined into one burger patty that delivers the juicy tenderness you love from a meatloaf, while maintaining the juicy, smoky qualities of a grilled burger. Add to this the crispy bacon topping, and you have the ultimate burger experience that will have your taste buds begging for more.
Why Grilled Bacon Meatloaf Burgers are Perfect for BBQs
Grilled Bacon Meatloaf Burgers are a crowd-pleaser, making them an excellent choice for BBQ gatherings and outdoor grilling. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity—though it requires a few steps to get the perfect burger, the ingredients are easy to find, and the process doesn’t take too long. With the grill providing that signature smoky char, these burgers come together in no time and require minimal effort, making them perfect for both beginner and experienced grill masters.
The combination of beef, pork, and bacon ensures that each burger is packed with flavor. The natural fat content from the pork and bacon helps keep the patties moist, preventing them from drying out during grilling. As the patties cook on the grill, they develop a beautiful, crispy crust while maintaining their juiciness on the inside. For those who love the taste of smoky grilled meat, the addition of bacon only enhances the flavor, making each bite a savory delight.
Customization: Make Your Grilled Bacon Meatloaf Burgers Your Own
One of the best things about these burgers is how customizable they are. While the basic recipe includes beef, pork, bacon, and simple seasoning, you can easily adjust the flavors to suit your preferences. Whether you’re adding spices, herbs, or different toppings, the possibilities are endless.
For a spicier kick, try incorporating some chili flakes or hot sauce into the meat mixture. Adding fresh herbs like parsley, thyme, or oregano can bring out a lovely, aromatic depth of flavor. You can also experiment with different kinds of cheese—cheddar, provolone, or Swiss would melt beautifully on top of these burgers. For those who enjoy a bit of crunch, consider adding pickles, crispy onions, or fresh lettuce to the finished burger.
Toppings also play an important role in the overall flavor experience. Whether you prefer the classic combination of ketchup and mustard or like to try something more creative like BBQ sauce, aioli, or a tangy relish, your choice of condiments can really make these grilled bacon meatloaf burgers shine.
Why Bacon Makes Everything Better
Bacon is often referred to as the ultimate flavor enhancer, and for good reason. The crispy, salty, and smoky profile of bacon works wonders when paired with rich, savory ingredients like ground beef and pork. In this recipe, bacon is incorporated in two ways: first, as an ingredient in the meatloaf patty mixture, and second, as a topping for added crunch and smokiness.
Incorporating bacon into the meat mixture helps distribute the smoky flavor evenly throughout the burger patty. As the burgers grill, the bacon fat helps keep the patty moist while adding a crispy texture and irresistible flavor. The bacon topping, added just before serving, adds the final layer of smoky richness, making every bite a truly indulgent experience. Whether you’re a bacon lover or just enjoy a little bit of crispy goodness, this recipe takes full advantage of bacon’s ability to elevate the dish.
Grilling Tips for Perfect Bacon Meatloaf Burgers
While the ingredients are relatively simple, grilling the perfect Grilled Bacon Meatloaf Burger does require some attention to detail. Here are a few tips to ensure your burgers turn out perfectly every time:
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Preheat Your Grill: Before you start grilling the patties, make sure your grill is preheated to medium-high heat. A hot grill will help create that perfect sear on the outside of the burgers, locking in the juices and flavors.
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Avoid Overmixing the Meat: When combining the ground beef and pork with the other ingredients, be careful not to overmix. Overworking the meat can lead to tough burgers. Mix just until the ingredients are combined, and then form the patties gently.
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Don’t Press the Patties: While grilling, resist the urge to press down on the patties with a spatula. This can squeeze out the juices and result in a dry burger. Let the burgers cook undisturbed, allowing the natural flavors to develop.
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Check the Internal Temperature: To ensure your burgers are cooked to the proper doneness, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. For well-done burgers, the temperature should reach 160°F (71°C).
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Toast the Buns: Toasting the buns on the grill adds extra flavor and texture to your burgers. A quick minute or two on the grill is all it takes to achieve perfectly crispy buns that will complement the juicy patties.
Pairing Grilled Bacon Meatloaf Burgers with Sides
While the grilled bacon meatloaf burger is filling and flavorful on its own, pairing it with the right sides can elevate the meal even further. For a classic BBQ experience, serve the burgers with crispy fries or potato wedges. The golden, crunchy texture of the fries pairs perfectly with the juicy, savory burgers.
Alternatively, a fresh coleslaw or a light green salad can provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the burger. For those looking to add more flavor to their meal, consider grilled vegetables like corn on the cob, zucchini, or bell peppers. These sides are not only delicious but also complement the smoky flavors of the grilled bacon meatloaf burgers.
Conclusion
Chef John’s Grilled Bacon Meatloaf Burgers are a game-changer when it comes to burger recipes. By combining the flavors of meatloaf with the smoky goodness of grilled bacon, this burger takes comfort food to new heights. It’s a hearty, flavorful dish that’s perfect for any BBQ or casual dinner, and with its customizable toppings, it’s sure to satisfy a wide range of tastes.
This recipe brings together the best of both worlds, offering a savory, juicy patty enhanced by crispy bacon and grilled to perfection. Whether you’re a seasoned griller or a novice, this burger is easy to make and guaranteed to impress. So fire up the grill, get your ingredients ready, and prepare to enjoy a truly indulgent burger experience that’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe rotation.