Jump to Recipe
BBQ Bacon Burger with Onion Rings inspired by The Ground Round
AI generated image
Inspired by The Ground Round
Try the Original

BBQ Bacon Burger with Onion Rings

Main Course
This hearty burger features a juicy beef patty topped with tangy barbecue sauce, crispy bacon, and melted cheddar cheese. The addition of golden onion rings provides extra crunch and flavor in every bite. This combination of savory, sweet, and smoky elements creates a truly satisfying burger experience.
Prep Time 20 mins
Cook Time 20 mins
Inactive Time 15 mins
Total Time 55 mins
Servings 4

Ingredients

  • 1 1/2 lbs Ground beef (80/20 lean-to-fat ratio)
  • 1 1/2 tsp Salt
  • 1 tsp Black pepper (Freshly ground)
  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 8 slices Bacon strips (Thick-cut)
  • 1/2 cup BBQ sauce (Plus extra for serving)
  • 4 slices Cheddar cheese (Sharp)
  • 1 whole Large onion (Sweet variety like Vidalia)
  • 1 cup All-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp Baking powder
  • 1/2 tsp Garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp Paprika
  • 1 cup Cold club soda
  • 4 cups Vegetable oil (For frying)
  • 4 whole Brioche burger buns
  • 2 tbsp Butter (Softened)
  • 4 large Lettuce leaves
  • 4 slices Sliced tomato
  • 1/4 cup Mayonnaise (Optional)

Tools You'll Need

  • Deep pot for frying
  • Thermometer
  • Grill or skillet
  • Large mixing bowls
  • Whisk
  • Slotted spoon
  • Paper towels

Chef's Tip

For the most flavorful burger, mix 2 tablespoons of the BBQ sauce directly into the ground beef before forming patties. This infuses the meat with smoky, sweet flavor that complements the toppings.

Instructions

  1. Prepare onion rings: Slice onion into 1/2-inch thick rings and separate. Place in cold water for 15 minutes.
  2. Mix batter: Whisk together flour, baking powder, garlic powder, paprika, and 1/2 teaspoon salt. Gradually whisk in cold club soda until just combined.
  3. Make burger patties: Combine ground beef, salt, pepper, and Worcestershire sauce in a bowl. Mix gently and form into 4 equal patties. Press a slight dimple in center of each.
  4. Cook bacon: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook bacon until crisp, about 10 minutes. Drain on paper towels.
  5. Heat oil in a deep pot to 375°F. Drain onion rings and pat dry. Dip in batter and fry in batches until golden, about 2-3 minutes. Drain on paper towels.
  6. Cook burgers on a preheated grill or skillet over medium-high heat, 4-5 minutes per side for medium doneness.
  7. Brush burgers with BBQ sauce during the last minute of cooking. Top with cheese slices and let melt.
  8. Spread butter on buns and toast until golden.
  9. To assemble: Spread mayonnaise on bottom bun if using. Add lettuce, tomato, burger patty with melted cheese, bacon (broken to fit), onion rings (2-3 per burger), and a drizzle of additional BBQ sauce. Top with bun lid.

Plating

Serve the burger on a plate with the top bun slightly askew to showcase the layers. Let some of the BBQ sauce drizzle down the sides for visual appeal. Add extra onion rings and a small dish of BBQ sauce on the side if desired.

Storage & Reheating

The burger components are best prepared fresh and assembled just before serving. If needed, cooked patties can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in a 350°F oven. Onion ring batter doesn't store well, but fried onion rings can be recrisped in a 375°F oven for 5 minutes.

About This Recipe

This BBQ Bacon Burger recreates The Ground Round's popular menu item that combines smoky, sweet, and savory flavors. The homemade onion rings add the signature crunch and height that makes this burger distinctive. The combination of melted cheese, crispy bacon, and tangy BBQ sauce creates a complex flavor profile that burger enthusiasts crave.

How did it turn out?

We'd love to hear about your experience making this recipe!