Avocado Bacon Burgers Recipe
Avocado Bacon Burgers are the epitome of a gourmet burger experience, combining the creamy richness of avocado with the smoky, savory goodness of crispy bacon.
This mouthwatering recipe takes the classic burger to the next level with layers of flavors and textures that will tantalize your taste buds.
Perfect for summer barbecues, family dinners, or any occasion where you want to impress your guests, these burgers are as satisfying as they are delicious.
In this detailed recipe, you’ll find everything you need to create these delectable burgers from scratch, ensuring they are packed with flavor and nutrition.
Ingredients
For the Beef Patties:
- Ground Beef: 1 1/2 pounds of 80% lean ground beef. The slight fat content ensures a juicy and flavorful patty.
- Garlic: 2 cloves minced, for a savory depth.
- Onion Powder: 1 teaspoon, for a subtle onion flavor.
- Worcestershire Sauce: 1 tablespoon, for umami richness.
- Salt: 1 teaspoon, to enhance flavors.
- Black Pepper: 1/2 teaspoon, for a bit of spice.
For the Toppings:
- Bacon: 8 slices, cooked until crispy.
- Avocado: 2 large, ripe, sliced.
- Cheese: 4 slices of your choice (cheddar, Swiss, or pepper jack).
- Lettuce: 4 large leaves, for crunch.
- Tomato: 1 large, sliced, for juiciness and color.
- Red Onion: 1 small, thinly sliced, for sharpness.
- Pickles: 1/4 cup, sliced, for tanginess.
For the Assembly:
- Burger Buns: 4 brioche or sesame seed buns, toasted.
- Mayonnaise: 1/4 cup, for creaminess.
- Ketchup: 1/4 cup, for sweetness.
- Mustard: 2 tablespoons, for a tangy note.
Instructions
Preparing the Beef Patties:
Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, minced garlic, onion powder, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and black pepper.
Mix gently with your hands or a spatula until all ingredients are well incorporated. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the patties tough.
Form Patties: Divide the mixture into 4 equal portions and shape each into a patty about 3/4 inch thick. Make a small indentation in the center of each patty with your thumb to prevent them from puffing up during cooking.
Chill Patties: Place the patties on a plate and cover with plastic wrap. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to firm up.
Cooking the Patties:
Preheat Grill or Pan: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Alternatively, you can use a grill pan or a large skillet on the stove.
Cook Patties: Grill the patties for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until they reach an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) for medium doneness. During the last minute of cooking, place a slice of cheese on each patty and cover to melt.
Rest Patties: Remove the patties from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes while you prepare the buns and toppings.
Preparing the Bacon:
Cook Bacon: While the patties are chilling, cook the bacon in a large skillet over medium heat until crispy. Transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess grease.
Assembling the Burgers:
Toast Buns: Toast the burger buns on the grill or in a toaster until lightly browned.
Spread Condiments: Spread a thin layer of mayonnaise on the bottom half of each bun. Add ketchup and mustard if desired.
Layer Ingredients: Place a lettuce leaf on the bottom bun, followed by a slice of tomato. Add the beef patty topped with melted cheese. Layer on the crispy bacon, avocado slices, red onion, and pickles. Cover with the top half of the bun.
Taste and Serving
The Avocado Bacon Burger is an explosion of flavors and textures. The beef patty is juicy and perfectly seasoned, offering a robust umami base.
The melted cheese adds a creamy, rich layer, while the crispy bacon provides a smoky, savory crunch. The avocado adds a smooth, buttery texture that balances the saltiness of the bacon and the beef.
Fresh lettuce, juicy tomato, and sharp red onion offer a refreshing contrast, and the pickles add a tangy zing that cuts through the richness.
The toasted brioche buns hold everything together with a slight sweetness that complements the savory ingredients.
These burgers are best served with a side of sweet potato fries, a crisp coleslaw, or a fresh green salad. A cold beer or a glass of iced tea pairs perfectly with the rich flavors of the Avocado Bacon Burger.
Nutritional Benefits
Avocado Bacon Burgers offer a variety of nutritional benefits:
Protein: Beef and bacon provide high-quality protein, essential for muscle repair and growth. A 3-ounce portion of cooked ground beef provides about 22 grams of protein.
Healthy Fats: Avocados are rich in monounsaturated fats, which are heart-healthy and can help reduce bad cholesterol levels. They also provide essential vitamins and minerals, including potassium and vitamins E, K, and C.
Vitamins and Minerals: Beef is rich in essential nutrients like iron, zinc, and vitamin B12, which are important for red blood cell production and immune function. Bacon, while higher in fat, also provides small amounts of important minerals like phosphorus and selenium.
Fiber: Using whole wheat or multigrain buns adds fiber and nutrients, supporting digestive health.
Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables like lettuce, tomato, and red onion contribute vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, enhancing the overall nutritional profile of the meal.
Conclusion
Avocado Bacon Burgers are a delicious and gourmet alternative to traditional burgers. They are versatile, allowing for a variety of toppings and sides to suit your taste. This recipe ensures juicy, flavorful patties with the perfect balance of seasonings and fresh ingredients.
Whether you’re grilling outdoors or cooking in the kitchen, these Avocado Bacon Burgers are sure to be a hit. Enjoy them as a decadent option for your next meal, and savor the wonderful flavors and textures they offer.