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Savory Bacon Cheddar Stuffed Burgers with Crispy Onion Strings

bacon cheddar stuffed burgers - featured image

Juicy beef patties stuffed with sharp cheddar and smoky bacon, topped with crispy onion strings for a perfect balance of flavors and textures. Easy to make and perfect for backyard BBQs or weeknight dinners.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound (450g) ground beef (80/20 blend)
  • 4 ounces (115g) sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 4 slices bacon, cooked and chopped
  • 1 medium yellow onion, thinly sliced
  • 1/2 cup (60g) all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup (120ml) buttermilk
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Vegetable oil for frying (canola or sunflower recommended)
  • 4 burger buns, toasted
  • Optional toppings: lettuce, tomato slices, pickles, burger sauce

Instructions

  1. Thinly slice the yellow onion into fine rings or strings (about 1/8 inch / 3mm thick). Soak them in buttermilk for 15 minutes to soften and add flavor.
  2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef with smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix gently to avoid toughening the meat.
  3. Cook bacon slices until crisp, drain on paper towels, then chop into small pieces.
  4. Divide the beef mixture into 8 equal portions (about 2 ounces / 60g each). Flatten one portion in your palm, place about 1 tablespoon shredded cheddar and some chopped bacon in the center, then top with another flattened portion. Seal the edges carefully to prevent cheese leakage.
  5. Drain onions from buttermilk, then toss in all-purpose flour seasoned with a pinch of salt and pepper. Shake off excess flour.
  6. Heat about 2 inches (5cm) of vegetable oil in a deep pan over medium-high heat to 350°F (175°C). Fry the onions in small batches for 2-3 minutes until golden and crispy. Drain on paper towels and season immediately with salt.
  7. Heat a grill or cast iron skillet to medium-high. Cook stuffed patties for about 4-5 minutes per side, flipping carefully, until internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). Avoid pressing down on them.
  8. Toast burger buns lightly. Place patties on buns, top generously with crispy onion strings, and add any optional toppings.

Notes

For best results, chill patties for 15 minutes before cooking to prevent cheese leakage. Maintain oil temperature between 350-360°F for crispy onion strings. Avoid pressing patties while cooking to keep them juicy. Use a meat thermometer to ensure burgers reach 160°F internally.

Nutrition

Keywords: stuffed burgers, bacon cheddar burgers, crispy onion strings, backyard BBQ, easy burger recipe, smoky bacon, sharp cheddar, grilled burgers