Crispy edges, melty cheese, and sweet-savory bacon jam — a burger like no other! 😍🔥
Forget everything you know about burgers — this smash burger with homemade bacon jam takes things to the next level. Imagine thin, crispy-edged beef patties layered with American cheese, topped with sweet and smoky bacon jam, and hugged by a buttery brioche bun. 🍞🧀 It’s messy, rich, and unforgettable — just the way a proper American burger should be.
Perfect for a weekend cookout, game day, or when you want to wow your guests with something gourmet but totally doable at home!
📝 Ingredients
For the smash burgers:
- 1½ lbs ground beef (80/20 blend for juiciness)
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 4 slices American cheese
- 4 brioche buns
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter (for toasting buns)
For the bacon jam:
- 6 slices thick-cut bacon, diced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- Pinch of chili flakes (optional for heat)
- Salt to taste
🔥 Instructions
1. Make the bacon jam 🥓
In a skillet over medium heat, cook the diced bacon until crispy. Remove most of the grease, then add the chopped onion. Cook until soft and golden. Stir in brown sugar, vinegar, paprika, chili flakes, and a pinch of salt. Simmer for 8–10 minutes until thick and jammy. Set aside. 😋
2. Prep the burger balls 🍔
Divide the ground beef into 4 loose balls. Don’t overwork them — you want them tender! Season with salt and pepper.
3. Smash and sear 🔥
Heat a cast iron pan or griddle on high. Add a bit of oil, place the beef balls in the pan, then smash them flat using a heavy spatula or burger press. Let them sear undisturbed for 2–3 minutes until crispy at the edges.
4. Add cheese 🧀
Flip the patties and immediately top with American cheese. Cook for 1–2 more minutes until the cheese melts.
5. Toast the buns 🍞
Butter the brioche buns and toast them in a pan until golden brown.
6. Assemble
Spread bacon jam on the bottom bun, add the cheesy smash patty, top with more jam if desired, and close with the top bun. Serve hot with fries or chips!
🍽️ Pro Tips
✅ Use a cast iron pan for the best crust
✅ Bacon jam can be made in advance and stored in the fridge for up to a week
✅ Want it spicy? Add sriracha or jalapeños to the jam 🌶️
💬 Final Thoughts
This Bacon Jam Smash Burger is the kind of recipe that gets people talking. Between the crispy beef, the melty cheese, and that sweet-savory bacon jam, every bite is a flavor bomb. It’s indulgent, satisfying, and wildly addictive. 😍
🔍 Keywords:
Primary: Bacon Jam Smash Burger
Long-tail: How to make bacon jam for burgers, gourmet smash burger recipe, American-style bacon cheeseburger