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Ultimate Dad Burger Recipe Easy Homemade Bacon Jam and Fried Egg

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A flavorful and comforting burger featuring juicy ground chuck patties topped with homemade smoky-sweet bacon jam and a perfectly fried egg with runny yolk. This easy recipe is perfect for busy weeknights and delivers a backyard feast experience at home.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb ground chuck (80/20 blend for juiciness)
  • 1 tsp kosher salt
  • ½ tsp freshly ground black pepper
  • ½ tsp garlic powder (optional)
  • 6 slices thick-cut bacon, chopped
  • 1 small yellow onion, finely diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • ¼ cup brown sugar, packed
  • 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
  • ½ tsp smoked paprika
  • A pinch of cayenne pepper (optional)
  • 4 large eggs (fresh, for frying)
  • 4 brioche burger buns, sliced and lightly toasted
  • 4 slices sharp cheddar cheese (or preferred melting cheese)
  • Leafy lettuce (butter or romaine)
  • Tomato slices, thick cut
  • Dill pickle slices (optional)
  • Butter or oil for frying eggs and toasting buns
  • Salt and pepper for seasoning eggs

Instructions

  1. Make the Bacon Jam: Cook chopped bacon in a medium saucepan over medium heat until crispy, about 8-10 minutes. Remove bacon with a slotted spoon, leaving the rendered fat in the pan.
  2. Add diced onions to the bacon fat and cook until soft and caramelized, about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  3. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 minute.
  4. Add brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper. Stir well and simmer on low heat, stirring often, until mixture thickens and resembles jam, about 15-20 minutes.
  5. Return cooked bacon to the pan, mix thoroughly, then remove from heat. Set aside to cool.
  6. Prepare the Burger Patties: In a mixing bowl, combine ground chuck with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Handle gently to avoid overworking the meat.
  7. Divide mixture into 4 equal portions (about 4 oz each). Shape each into a patty slightly larger than your buns, making a shallow dimple in the center to prevent puffing up during cooking.
  8. Let patties rest at room temperature for 10 minutes while prepping other ingredients.
  9. Cook the Burgers: Heat a cast iron skillet or grill pan to medium-high heat.
  10. Place patties in the pan, cooking for about 3-4 minutes per side for medium doneness (internal temp 160°F). Adjust timing for desired doneness.
  11. During the last minute of cooking, place a slice of cheddar on each patty to melt.
  12. Remove patties from heat and let rest for a few minutes.
  13. Fry the Eggs: In a separate skillet, melt butter over medium-low heat.
  14. Crack eggs carefully into the pan and cook until whites are set but yolks remain runny, about 2-3 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.
  15. For firmer yolks, cover pan briefly or flip eggs for over-easy style.
  16. Toast the Buns: Butter the insides of the brioche buns and toast on a griddle or pan until golden and slightly crisp, about 1-2 minutes.
  17. Assemble the Burger: Spread a generous spoonful of bacon jam on the bottom bun.
  18. Layer lettuce, tomato slice, and pickles (if using).
  19. Add the cheddar-topped beef patty.
  20. Top with the fried egg.
  21. Spread more bacon jam on the top bun and crown the burger.

Notes

Do not rush the bacon jam; slow cooking brings out the best flavor. Rest patties before cooking to keep them juicy. Fry eggs on medium-low heat to keep yolks runny and avoid crispy edges. Toast buns lightly to prevent sogginess. Use a meat thermometer for perfect doneness if desired.

Nutrition

Keywords: burger, bacon jam, fried egg, homemade burger, easy burger recipe, backyard feast, comfort food, quick dinner

Find it online: https://emmaoven.com/ultimate-dad-burger-recipe-easy-homemade-bacon-jam-and-fried-egg/