This Bacon and Goat Cheese Aioli Burger is a flavorful, indulgent masterpiece. The creamy goat cheese pairs perfectly with the smoky bacon, while the tangy aioli adds a burst of flavor. The crispy onions take this burger to the next level, adding a satisfying crunch that contrasts beautifully with the juicy beef patty.
Perfect for a casual weeknight dinner or a weekend BBQ, this burger is guaranteed to impress. Whether you’re a bacon lover or a fan of gourmet burgers, every bite of this dish is a celebration of rich flavors and textures. The melted goat cheese and crispy onions elevate the classic burger into something extraordinary, making it a must-try for any burger enthusiast.
Full Recipe:
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1 lb ground beef
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4 burger buns
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4 slices of bacon
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4 oz goat cheese
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1/4 cup mayonnaise
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1 tablespoon lemon juice
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1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
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1 tablespoon garlic powder
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Salt and pepper to taste
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1 large onion, thinly sliced
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1 cup buttermilk
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1 cup flour
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1 teaspoon smoked paprika
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1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
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Oil for frying
Directions:
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Preheat a skillet or grill over medium-high heat.
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Season the ground beef with salt and pepper, then form it into 4 patties.
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Cook the bacon in a separate skillet over medium heat until crispy, about 4-5 minutes. Set aside.
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For the aioli, combine mayonnaise, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Mix until smooth.
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Heat oil in a frying pan for the crispy onions. In one bowl, soak the onion slices in buttermilk for 10 minutes, then coat them in a mixture of flour, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, and a pinch of salt.
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Fry the onions until golden and crispy, about 2-3 minutes. Drain on paper towels.
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While the onions are frying, cook the beef patties for 4-5 minutes per side or until they reach your desired doneness.
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Once the patties are cooked, top each with a slice of goat cheese, allowing it to melt slightly.
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Assemble the burgers by spreading aioli on the bottom of each bun. Place the patty with melted goat cheese on top, followed by crispy bacon and crispy onions.
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Top with the other half of the bun and serve immediately.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 25 minutes | Total Time: 40 minutes
Kcal: 650 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
Health Benefits of the Bacon and Goat Cheese Aioli Burger with Crispy Onions
While burgers often get a reputation for being indulgent and unhealthy, this Bacon and Goat Cheese Aioli Burger offers a surprising balance of flavor and nutrition. First, let’s talk about the health benefits of the key ingredients. Ground beef, a staple of this recipe, is a rich source of protein and essential nutrients like iron and vitamin B12. While it’s important to moderate red meat consumption, choosing lean cuts can help keep the burger a bit lighter. Pairing this with goat cheese offers a unique twist. Goat cheese has fewer calories and fat than many cow’s milk cheeses, and it’s also easier to digest for those who might have trouble with dairy. The addition of crispy onions might seem like a simple topping, but onions are packed with antioxidants, including quercetin, which has anti-inflammatory properties. Garlic, a key ingredient in the aioli, is also well-known for its health benefits, from boosting the immune system to promoting heart health.
The aioli itself adds a rich, creamy texture to the burger, but it can be made healthier by using lighter versions of mayonnaise or substituting Greek yogurt for a boost of probiotics. The key here is balance—while this burger may be on the indulgent side, it can be enjoyed in moderation and still provide some nutritional value. Additionally, swapping in turkey or chicken for the beef patty is an option for those looking to reduce their red meat intake while still enjoying a savory, satisfying meal.
Preparation Tips for Making the Perfect Bacon and Goat Cheese Aioli Burger with Crispy Onions
One of the most enjoyable aspects of this recipe is how customizable it is. If you’re making it for the first time, there are a few tips to ensure everything turns out perfectly. When making the beef patties, it’s important not to overwork the meat. Overworking ground beef can make the patties tough, so gently form the patties and season them lightly with salt and pepper. If you want an extra flavor boost, consider adding a bit of Worcestershire sauce or smoked paprika to the mix.
Next, for the crispy onions, patience is key. Soaking the onion slices in buttermilk for about 10 minutes is crucial to getting them tender inside while still crispy on the outside. Be sure to coat the onions well with the flour mixture, and make sure the oil is hot enough for frying. If the oil is too cold, the onions will absorb too much oil and become soggy. A good test is to drop a small amount of flour into the oil—if it sizzles immediately, the oil is ready. Once fried, drain the onions on paper towels to remove any excess oil.
The aioli is another area where personal preference can shine through. The base recipe calls for mayonnaise, but for a lighter version, swap in Greek yogurt. You can also experiment with adding herbs like parsley, tarragon, or even a bit of mustard to the aioli for added flavor. Lemon juice brightens up the sauce, and garlic gives it a nice kick. Feel free to adjust the ingredients to your liking, as aioli is versatile and forgiving.
Finally, make sure to toast your burger buns! Toasting adds extra texture and flavor to the burger and helps prevent them from getting soggy from the juicy patty and aioli. A quick toast on a grill or in a skillet adds a nice crunch without overdoing it.
Variations of the Bacon and Goat Cheese Aioli Burger with Crispy Onions
As versatile as this recipe is, there are plenty of ways to tailor it to your tastes or dietary preferences. For example, if you’re looking to cut down on calories or add more veggies to your diet, consider swapping out the beef patty for a plant-based option. With the growing popularity of plant-based meats like Beyond Meat or Impossible Burger, you can still enjoy the same great flavors without the beef. These substitutes also offer a lower fat content, so they can be a great choice for those who are watching their calorie intake.
For those who want to take the health factor up a notch, consider using a whole grain or gluten-free bun. This change would add extra fiber and make the burger more filling while still keeping all the delicious flavors intact. You could also try a lettuce wrap instead of a bun for a lighter, low-carb alternative. If you’re avoiding dairy, swap out the goat cheese for a vegan cheese option or just use more crispy onions for that extra texture and flavor. The aioli can also be customized to be dairy-free by using vegan mayonnaise.
If you’re in the mood for a different flavor profile, consider adding some fresh toppings like arugula, avocado, or even a slice of tomato. These fresh ingredients not only add nutrients but also provide an extra layer of flavor and texture that can enhance the overall burger experience. For those who like a little spice, a few jalapeño slices or hot sauce can bring some heat to the burger, perfectly complementing the richness of the goat cheese and aioli.
The Appeal of the Bacon and Goat Cheese Aioli Burger with Crispy Onions
What makes this burger so special is the combination of indulgent and complex flavors with a satisfying, juicy texture. Bacon adds its signature smoky crunch, while goat cheese offers a creamy and slightly tangy contrast that elevates the richness of the beef patty. The aioli, with its garlic and lemon kick, adds moisture and a burst of flavor that ties everything together. Of course, the crispy onions add the perfect textural contrast, delivering a satisfying crunch with every bite. Together, these components create a burger that is not only delicious but truly satisfying.
This recipe is also highly customizable, meaning you can tweak it based on dietary needs or flavor preferences. Whether you prefer a leaner option, like turkey, or a more indulgent version with extra bacon and cheese, this burger can be tailored to fit any craving. It’s perfect for casual weeknight dinners, family gatherings, or weekend BBQs, as it offers a mix of comfort and gourmet qualities.
Another reason this burger stands out is its visual appeal. The vibrant golden-brown crispy onions, the melted goat cheese, and the perfectly grilled beef patty make for a burger that is not only a treat for the taste buds but also for the eyes. Serving this burger at a gathering or cookout is sure to impress your guests, and with its gourmet twist on a classic, it’s sure to be a conversation starter.
Conclusion
The Bacon and Goat Cheese Aioli Burger with Crispy Onions offers a delicious, balanced burger experience that combines indulgent flavors with surprising health benefits. From the rich, savory beef patty and smoky bacon to the creamy goat cheese and tangy aioli, this burger hits all the right notes for burger enthusiasts. With a few simple tweaks and variations, such as switching to a plant-based patty or using a gluten-free bun, you can easily adapt the recipe to meet your dietary preferences. Whether you’re serving it at a family dinner or a weekend BBQ, this burger is sure to satisfy everyone’s taste buds and leave them coming back for more.