Arkansas Bourbon BBQ Bacon Burgers on the Arteflame Grill

Introduction

Get ready to fire up your Arteflame grill for the ultimate Arkansas Bourbon BBQ Bacon Burgers! With a rich bourbon-infused barbecue sauce and crispy grilled bacon, these burgers will leave your guests craving more. The unique high-temperature searing of the Arteflame grill locks in the juices and creates an irresistible crust, while the flat cooktop ensures even cooking. Let’s get grilling!

Ingredients

• 2 lbs ground beef (80/20 blend for best flavor)
• 1/2 cup bourbon
• 1/2 cup barbecue sauce
• 8 slices thick-cut bacon
• 4 burger buns
• 4 slices cheddar cheese
• 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
• 1 large tomato, sliced
• Lettuce leaves
• 2 tbsp butter
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp salt

Instructions

Step 1: Fire up the Arteflame grill

1. Pour some vegetable oil on three paper napkins.
2. Place the napkins in the grill and stack firewood over them.
3. Light the napkins and wait about 20 minutes until the Arteflame is preheated and ready to cook.

Step 2: Prepare the Bourbon BBQ Sauce

1. Mix the bourbon, barbecue sauce, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, black pepper, and salt in a bowl.
2. Set aside to coat the burgers later.

Step 3: Shape and Season the Burgers

1. Form the ground beef into four patties, making them slightly wider than the buns.
2. Press a small dimple in the center of each patty to prevent excessive bulging while cooking.
3. Brush each patty with a little bourbon BBQ sauce.

Step 4: Sear the Bacon

1. Place bacon slices on the flat cooktop near the center where it’s hot.
2. Cook until crispy, flipping as needed.
3. Move the bacon to a cooler area to keep warm.

Step 5: Sear the Burgers

1. Place burger patties on the 1,000F center grill grate for a steakhouse-quality sear.
2. Sear for 1-2 minutes on each side to lock in juices.
3. Move the patties onto the flat cooktop to continue cooking to your desired doneness.
4. Brush on more bourbon BBQ sauce while cooking.

Step 6: Toast the Buns and Melt the Cheese

1. Butter the burger buns and place on the flat cooktop.
2. Grill until golden brown.
3. Top each burger with cheddar cheese and cover with a heat-safe lid to melt if needed.

Step 7: Assemble and Serve

1. Spread remaining bourbon BBQ sauce on buns.
2. Add lettuce, tomato, red onion, patties, crispy bacon, and the top bun.
3. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Tips

• Remove the burgers from the grill when the internal temp is 15°F below desired doneness.
• Use a meat thermometer to ensure accuracy.
• Let the burgers rest for 5 minutes before serving to retain juices.

Variations

1. Spicy Kick: Add sliced jalapeños and a dash of hot sauce to the bourbon BBQ sauce.
2. Smoky Blue Cheese: Substitute cheddar with blue cheese crumbles for a bold flavor.
3. Sweet and Savory: Add caramelized onions for a hint of sweetness.
4. Maple Bacon Bliss: Brush the bacon with maple syrup before grilling.
5. Mushroom Swiss: Sauté mushrooms on the flat cooktop with butter and add Swiss cheese.

Conclusion

With the high-heat searing power of the Arteflame grill, these Arkansas Bourbon BBQ Bacon Burgers turn out juicy, flavorful, and perfect every time. Fire up the grill and enjoy this mouthwatering burger recipe with friends and family!

Best Pairings

• Grilled sweet potato fries
• Charred corn on the cob
• Ice-cold Arkansas craft beer
• Classic coleslaw