BBQ Beef Burger: How to Make The Best Smoky and Flavorful Burger
The Smoky BBQ Beef Burger is a hearty, flavorful dish that brings together the rich taste of beef with the bold, smoky sweetness of BBQ sauce.
This burger is perfect for grill lovers who crave that authentic, smoky flavor, which pairs perfectly with juicy beef patties.
Topped with BBQ sauce, cheese, onions, and other classic burger fixings, this burger is ideal for backyard cookouts, game day, or whenever you want a satisfying meal packed with flavor.
Burgers have long been a staple of American cuisine, with their origins tracing back to the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
The addition of barbecue sauce, however, brings a Southern-inspired twist to the classic burger. BBQ sauce, particularly the smoky variety, is deeply rooted in Southern U.S. culinary traditions, where slow-cooked meats and rich, flavorful sauces reign supreme.
The smoky flavor in BBQ sauce often comes from ingredients like smoked paprika or liquid smoke, which give the sauce its signature taste. When paired with a grilled or pan-seared beef patty, the result is a mouthwatering combination of smoky, savory, and slightly sweet flavors that elevate the traditional burger experience.
A fun anecdote is that BBQ burgers became a popular feature in American backyard barbecues in the mid-20th century, as grilling gained popularity and families began experimenting with different flavors. The smoky BBQ beef burger became an instant hit, embodying the bold, fun flavors of outdoor cooking.
This BBQ beef burger is packed with smoky, tangy flavors, thanks to a generous glaze of barbecue sauce, caramelized onions, and cheddar cheese.
A great choice for any barbecue gathering or summer cookout.
- 1 lb ground beef (80% lean)
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- ½ cup BBQ sauce (plus extra for glazing)
- 1 large onion, sliced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 4 slices cheddar cheese
- 4 burger buns
- Lettuce leaves
- Tomato slices
- Pickles (optional)
In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
Add the sliced onion and cook, stirring occasionally, for about 10-12 minutes or until they are golden brown and caramelized. Set aside.
In a large bowl, mix the ground beef, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder until combined.
Divide into 4 equal portions and shape each portion into a patty about ¾ inch thick.
- Preheat the grill or skillet to medium-high heat (375°F).
Place the patties on the grill or skillet.
Cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side or until they reach an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).
- During the last 2 minutes of cooking, brush each patty with BBQ sauce and place a slice of cheddar cheese on top to melt.
- Toast the burger buns lightly on the grill or in a skillet.
- Spread a layer of BBQ sauce on the bottom half of each bun. Place a lettuce leaf, then add the BBQ beef patty with melted cheese.
- Top with caramelized onions, tomato slices, and pickles (optional). Cover with the top half of the bun.
- Serve hot with extra BBQ sauce on the side and enjoy.
For a smokier flavor, use a smoked cheddar cheese or add smoked paprika to the burger patty mix.
You can also substitute the cheddar cheese with pepper jack for an extra spicy twist.
With a foundation in French culinary tradition and a flair for fusion cuisine, Chef Isabelle Laurent brings gourmet techniques to everyday meals. Trained in a virtual culinary institute, Isabelle specializes in elevating simple recipes with refined methods, blending classic French techniques with global flavors. Her approachable style and expert guidance make even the most sophisticated dishes accessible to home cooks of all levels. Known for her creativity, Isabelle believes in transforming ordinary ingredients into extraordinary meals, from classic fried chicken to indulgent espresso cheesecake.
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