Grilled Drunk on Bourbon Burger with Cheddar and Bourbon Onions

Introduction

The Drunk on Bourbon Burger infuses rich, smoky bourbon flavors into a juicy beef patty, topped with caramelized bourbon onions and melted cheddar cheese. Grilling the burger on the Arteflame enhances the flavors with a perfect sear, while the bourbon adds a depth of flavor that elevates this burger to gourmet status.

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend)
• 4 brioche or burger buns
• 4 slices sharp cheddar cheese
• 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
• 2 tbsp butter (for grilling)
• ¼ cup bourbon
• 2 tbsp brown sugar
• Lettuce leaves
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Bourbon BBQ Sauce:

• ½ cup ketchup
• 2 tbsp bourbon
• 1 tbsp brown sugar
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• Salt to taste

Instructions

Step 1: Fire up the Arteflame Grill

Light your Arteflame grill using vegetable oil-soaked napkins and stacked firewood. Let the grill heat up for about 20 minutes. The center grate will be used to sear the burgers, while the outer flat top is perfect for caramelizing the bourbon onions and toasting the buns.

Step 2: Make the Bourbon Caramelized Onions

Melt butter on the outer flat top and add the sliced red onions. Cook until soft and caramelized, about 7-10 minutes. Pour in the bourbon and brown sugar, stirring to coat the onions in the glaze. Let the bourbon cook down until the onions are sticky and sweet. Set aside.

Step 3: Shape the Burger Patties

Divide the ground beef into four equal portions and shape them into patties about ¾ inch thick. Season both sides with salt and pepper.

Step 4: Grill the Drunk on Bourbon Burgers

Place the burger patties on the hot center grate and sear for about 3-4 minutes per side to develop a nice crust. Move the patties to the outer flat top and top with a slice of sharp cheddar cheese. Let the cheese melt while the burgers finish cooking to your desired doneness.

Step 5: Toast the Buns

Butter the brioche buns and place them on the outer flat top for 1-2 minutes until lightly toasted and golden brown.

Step 6: Make the Bourbon BBQ Sauce

In a small bowl, mix together ketchup, bourbon, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, smoked paprika, and a pinch of salt until smooth.

Step 7: Assemble the Drunk on Bourbon Burgers

Spread a generous layer of bourbon BBQ sauce on both sides of the toasted buns. Place a lettuce leaf on the bottom bun, followed by the burger patty with melted cheddar cheese. Top with the caramelized bourbon onions, and cap with the top bun.

Step 8: Serve

Serve the Drunk on Bourbon Burger hot, alongside fries or grilled vegetables for a rich, flavorful meal.

Grilling Tips

• Caramelize the onions slowly: Let the onions cook down gently to absorb the bourbon and brown sugar flavors.
• Control the bourbon: Ensure the bourbon is cooked down to avoid an overpowering taste while leaving a rich, smoky note.

Variations

1. Bacon Bourbon Burger: Add crispy bacon to complement the sweet and smoky bourbon flavors.
2. Spicy Bourbon Burger: Add jalapeños and a splash of hot sauce to the BBQ sauce for a fiery kick.
3. Bourbon Mushroom Burger: Sauté mushrooms in bourbon and butter for an earthy, rich topping.
4. Maple Bourbon Burger: Mix in a tablespoon of maple syrup to the BBQ sauce for a sweet, smoky twist.
5. Bourbon Bleu Burger: Replace the cheddar with crumbled bleu cheese for a bold, tangy contrast to the bourbon.

Best Pairings

• Truffle fries: The richness of the truffle complements the smoky bourbon flavors.
• Grilled corn on the cob: A light, smoky side that pairs well with the sweet and savory notes of the burger.
• Onion rings: Crispy onion rings are perfect alongside the caramelized bourbon onions.

Conclusion

The Grilled Drunk on Bourbon Burger combines juicy beef, melted cheddar, bourbon-infused caramelized onions, and a rich bourbon BBQ sauce. This burger is perfect for bourbon lovers and those looking for a gourmet twist on a classic.