It was one of those weekends where takeout just wouldn’t do. As I rummaged through my kitchen, I spotted a few essential ingredients that sparked a delicious idea: a Honey Drizzled Bacon Jam Smash Burger. Picture this: a crispy smash patty topped with a rich, sweet-and-salty bacon jam, all nestled in a soft pretzel bun. This isn’t just another burger; it’s an indulgent escape from the ordinary that’s easy to whip up and will have everyone at your table singing its praises.
With minimal fuss involved and a symphony of flavors to delight your senses, you’ll find yourself reaching for seconds (and possibly thirds). Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or simply craving something a little more exciting to spark your weeknight routine, this burger promises to be the star of the show. Ready to dive into this gastronomic adventure? Let’s get cooking!
Why is the Honey Drizzled Bacon Jam Smash Burger a must-try?
Indulgence Redefined: This burger transforms an ordinary meal into a gourmet experience with its flavorful bacon jam and crispy smash patty.
Effortless Preparation: With simple steps and basic ingredients, anyone can create this culinary delight.
Crowd-Pleasing Flavor: Friends and family will be raving about the sweet-and-savory combination for days.
Versatile Options: Easily swap ingredients to tailor the burger to your taste, like using ground turkey for a lighter fare.
Perfect for Gatherings: Impress your guests at any get-together with this unique twist on a classic favorite.
Make-Ahead Convenience: Prepare the bacon jam in advance to save time, letting you focus on the fun part—enjoying your meal!
Honey Drizzled Bacon Jam Smash Burger Ingredients
For the Bacon Jam
• Bacon – Essential for creating that rich, savory base for your jam.
• Onion – Adds sweetness; substitute with shallots for a milder flavor.
• Garlic – Enhances the overall flavor of the jam; no substitutions required.
• Tomatoes – Forms the jam’s base; fresh or canned work equally well.
• Bee Sting Hot Honey Rub – Contributes a delightful spicy-sweet kick; swap with your favorite honey or spice blend.
• Honey – Sweetens the bacon jam and balances savory flavors.
• Balsamic Vinegar – Adds tanginess and depth; red wine vinegar can be a suitable alternative.
For the Smash Burgers
• Ground Beef (80/20) – Provides juicy, flavorful patties; avoid leaner blends to prevent dryness.
• Red Onion – Freshness that complements the rich flavors; thinly sliced for best results.
• Jalapeños – For a spicy topping; adjust amount based on your heat preference.
• Cheese (optional) – Choose your favorite melting cheese for added creaminess.
• Pretzel Buns – Offers the perfect textural contrast; any sturdy burger bun can work as a substitute.
This Honey Drizzled Bacon Jam Smash Burger will become your go-to indulgent treat, guaranteed to impress! 🍔
How to Make Honey Drizzled Bacon Jam Smash Burger
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Prep Bacon Jam: Start by cooking chopped bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy. Reserve about 1 tablespoon of the bacon fat. Sauté onions in the reserved fat until golden brown, then stir in garlic, chopped tomatoes, spices, honey, and balsamic vinegar. Simmer this mixture for about an hour until it thickens beautifully.
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Prepare Burger Patties: While the jam cooks, form the ground beef into loose meatballs—remember, the key is not to overwork the meat! Preheat your grill or flat-top skillet to 375°F, ensuring it’s nice and hot for that perfect sear.
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Cook Patties: Once your surface is hot, smash the meatballs down onto it, seasoning with salt and pepper. Cook until you achieve a caramelized crust, flip the patties, add your cheese slices, and continue cooking until the cheese is gloriously melted.
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Sauté Toppings: In the juicy remnants from the patties, cook the red onion and jalapeños until softened, adding a nice crunch and freshness to your burger.
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Assemble: To create your mouthwatering burger, layer fresh spinach on the bottom half of the pretzel bun. Add the crispy smash patty, generous spoonfuls of bacon jam, and top with your sautéed onions and jalapeños. Cap it off with the other half of the pretzel bun and serve immediately.
Optional: Serve with a side of classic fries for that perfect burger experience!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Honey Drizzled Bacon Jam Smash Burger?
Elevate your burger experience with delightful sides that perfectly balance the rich flavors of this indulgent treat.
- Crispy French Fries: Golden and crunchy, they offer the perfect contrast to the juicy burger and absorb any extra flavors from the jam.
- Coleslaw: A refreshing and crunchy side, coleslaw adds a zesty brightness that complements the sweetness of the bacon jam. The creamy dressing brings a cooling element that’s divine with each bite.
- Sweet Potato Wedges: These roasted wedges provide a sweet and savory balance, working beautifully with the smoky bacon flavors. Their natural sweetness enhances your burger experience.
- Garlic Butter Brussel Sprouts: The earthy flavors of these shredded sprouts and their crispy edges harmonize with the savory tones of the burger, creating a symphony of taste on your plate.
- Pickles: Tangy and crisp, pickles cut through the richness, elevating every decadent bite of your smash burger. They’re a classic favorite that adds extra crunch!
- Onion Rings: Crunchy and immensely satisfying, onion rings bring a delightful texture and an addictive sweetness that complements the entire dish; everyone loves a good fry-onion pairing!
- Spicy Potato Chips: A delightful crunch with a kick, these chips keep the flavors popping and are a fun way to add some spice to your meal!
- Craft Beer: Pairing your burger with a refreshing craft beer can enhance the overall experience. The hoppy notes complement the sweetness of the jam perfectly.
- Milkshakes: For dessert, a rich vanilla or chocolate milkshake rounds out your indulgent meal beautifully. The creamy sweetness is a blissful way to finish!
How to Store and Freeze Honey Drizzled Bacon Jam Smash Burger
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Room Temperature: Leftovers can sit out for up to 2 hours before they should be refrigerated to prevent any food safety issues.
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Fridge: Store the assembled burger in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For best results, keep the bacon jam separate until ready to consume to maintain texture.
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Freezer: Frozen assembled burgers can be stored in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Wrap them individually in plastic wrap to prevent freezer burn, and defrost in the fridge before reheating.
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Reheating: To reheat, warm the patties in a skillet on low heat until heated through. Rewarm the bacon jam separately in a saucepan to bring back its luscious consistency before serving again on your Honey Drizzled Bacon Jam Smash Burger.
Honey Drizzled Bacon Jam Smash Burger Variations
Feel free to get creative with this burger recipe that’s as adaptable as it is delicious!
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Ground Turkey: Swap ground beef for ground turkey to create a lighter burger without sacrificing flavor.
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Plant-Based Meat: For a vegetarian option, use a plant-based meat substitute for the same juicy texture!
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Cheese-Free: Omit cheese entirely for a dairy-free delight while still enjoying all the savory goodness.
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Spicy Twist: Add diced jalapeños directly into the patty mix for an extra kick that’ll awaken your taste buds.
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Different Jams: Experiment with alternative jams like fig or spicy jalapeño for a unique and surprising flavor experience.
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Sweet Potatoes: Use sweet potato or potato buns instead of pretzel buns for a sweet and hearty base.
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BBQ Glaze: Brush the patties with your favorite BBQ sauce during the last few minutes of cooking for a smoky twist.
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Avocado Cream: Top your burger with a creamy avocado spread for added richness and a burst of freshness.
Let your imagination run wild and customize each burger to suit your taste!
Make Ahead Options
These Honey Drizzled Bacon Jam Smash Burgers are perfect for busy weeknights and can save you valuable time during meal prep! You can prepare the bacon jam up to 3 days in advance; store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for optimal flavor and freshness. Additionally, form the burger patties ahead of time and refrigerate them, separated by wax paper, for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to cook, simply take your patties out, let them come to room temperature for about 15-20 minutes for even cooking, and grill as instructed. This way, you’ll enjoy the same deliciousness with minimal effort, and your weeknight meals will be a breeze!
Expert Tips for Honey Drizzled Bacon Jam Smash Burger
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Hot Surface: Ensure your cooking surface is well-heated for proper searing. Let it preheat for at least 5 minutes to achieve that perfect crust.
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Low-and-Slow Jam: Don’t rush the bacon jam; simmering it slowly helps develop deeper flavors. It’s worth the wait for that sweet-and-salty balance!
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Minimal Handling: When forming burger patties, handle the meat as little as possible. Overworking can lead to dense patties, so smash them just once on the heat.
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Versatile Substitutions: Feel free to swap ingredients! Ground turkey or plant-based meat can lighten up the dish without sacrificing flavor in your Honey Drizzled Bacon Jam Smash Burger.
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Cheese Choices: Use your favorite melting cheese for that creamy addition. Experiment with different types for a unique twist on the flavor profile!
Honey Drizzled Bacon Jam Smash Burger Recipe FAQs
What type of ground beef should I use for the burger?
I recommend using 80/20 ground beef for the best flavor and juiciness. Leaner types can lead to dry patties, while the higher fat content of 80/20 ensures a juicy, savory bite that complements the rich bacon jam beautifully.
How should I store leftovers?
Leftover assembled burgers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days in an airtight container. To maintain the nice texture, I suggest keeping the bacon jam separate until you’re ready to enjoy your burger again.
Can I make the bacon jam ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the bacon jam in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to a week. This way, you can whip up your Honey Drizzled Bacon Jam Smash Burger quickly on a busy night. Just warm it up in a saucepan over low heat before serving.
How can I freeze the assembled burgers?
To freeze your Honey Drizzled Bacon Jam Smash Burgers, wrap each burger in plastic wrap individually to prevent freezer burn. Store them in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, defrost them in the fridge overnight, then reheat in a skillet.
What should I do if my bacon jam turns out too thick?
If your bacon jam is too thick after simmering, simply stir in a tablespoon or two of water or extra balsamic vinegar over low heat to reach your desired consistency. Remember, the aim is a luscious spread that complements the burger without being overly chunky.
Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
While this recipe doesn’t cater to specific dietary restrictions, feel free to make substitutions based on your needs. You can swap ground beef for ground turkey or a plant-based alternative for a lighter version of the Honey Drizzled Bacon Jam Smash Burger, and make it dairy-free by omitting the cheese or using a plant-based cheese alternative.
Indulge in Honey Drizzled Bacon Jam Smash Burger Bliss
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prep Bacon Jam: Cook chopped bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy. Reserve 1 tablespoon of bacon fat. Sauté onions in reserved fat until golden brown, add garlic, tomatoes, spices, honey, and balsamic vinegar. Simmer for about an hour until thick.
- Prepare Burger Patties: Form ground beef into loose meatballs, preheat grill or flat-top to 375°F.
- Cook Patties: Smash meatballs on hot surface, season with salt and pepper. Cook until caramelized, flip, add cheese, cook until melted.
- Sauté Toppings: Cook red onion and jalapeños in the remnants from patties until softened.
- Assemble: Layer spinach on bottom half of pretzel bun, add smash patty, bacon jam, sautéed onions, jalapeños, top with the other half of the bun.