Name: Savory BBQ Bacon Blackstone Smash Burgers for Summer Delights
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1 pound Ground Beef (80/20 Chuck) (Higher fat content for juicy burgers.); 1 teaspoon Kosher Salt (For seasoning.); 1 teaspoon Black Pepper (For spice.); 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder (Depth of flavor.); 8 slices Thick Cut Bacon (Cooked until crispy.); 4 slices American Cheese (or Cheddar) (Melts well.); 1/2 cup BBQ Sauce (Choose your favorite.); 4 buns Brioche Buns (Soft and lightly sweet.)

With the sun shining and summer vibes in the air, I decided to create something special for our next cookout: BBQ Bacon Blackstone Smash Burgers. If you’ve ever had the craving for a juicy, crispy burger that practically melts in your mouth, then this recipe is the ticket. These burgers come together in no time and make for a crowd-pleasing golden centerpiece that satisfies all appetites. The combination of savory beef, crispy bacon, and your favorite BBQ sauce is a flavor explosion that’s hard to resist. Plus, the ease of cooking them on a Blackstone griddle means less fuss and more fun for everyone involved. So, are you ready to fire up the griddle and impress your friends with the ultimate summer treat?

Why Are BBQ Bacon Blackstone Smash Burgers Irresistible?

Simplicity: This recipe makes burger night a breeze, with minimal prep and easy cleanup that’s perfect for busy summer evenings.

Flavor Explosion: Each bite is a delightful medley of smoky bacon, juicy beef, and mouthwatering BBQ sauce, making them the star of any cookout.

Customizable: Feel free to tailor the toppings—add crispy onion rings for crunch or jalapeños for a spicy kick, just like you would with other favorites such as Bbq Chicken Mac!

Perfect Texture: The contrast between the crispy exterior and juicy interior of the patties will have your guests raving about their deliciousness.

Crowd-Pleasing: Easy to scale up for parties, these burgers are a surefire way to impress friends and family, satisfying even the pickiest eaters!

BBQ Bacon Blackstone Smash Burgers Ingredients

For the Patties

Ground Beef (80/20 Chuck) – The higher fat content ensures a juicy burger with a perfect caramelized crust.
Kosher Salt – Essential for seasoning the patties, enhancing the overall flavor.
Black Pepper – Adds a touch of spice to elevate the savory notes.
Garlic Powder – Introduces a depth of flavor without overwhelming the other ingredients.

For the Toppings

Thick Cut Bacon – Cooked to a crispy perfection that brings an irresistible savory bite.
American Cheese (or Cheddar) – Melts wonderfully, contributing creaminess to each mouthful; consider sharp cheddar for a stronger flavor.
BBQ Sauce – Adds a sweet and smoky kick that perfectly complements the beef; choose your favorite for personalized flavor.

For the Buns

Brioche Buns – Soft and slightly sweet, ideal for holding the juicy goodness; toasting them in butter keeps them from getting soggy.

These ingredients come together to create truly delightful BBQ Bacon Blackstone Smash Burgers that will make your summer cookouts unforgettable!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for BBQ Bacon Blackstone Smash Burgers

Step 1: Prep the Griddle
Begin by preheating your Blackstone griddle to medium-high heat, aiming for around 400°F. This ensures the griddle is hot enough to achieve that perfect caramelized crust on your patties. Allow about 10 minutes for the griddle to heat up, providing a sizzle when the burgers make contact.

Step 2: Cook Bacon
Next, lay out the thick-cut bacon strips on the hot griddle. Allow them to cook for about 5–7 minutes until they’re crispy, flipping halfway through for even cooking. Once done, remove the bacon and set it aside, leaving the delicious drippings on the griddle to infuse the flavor into your BBQ Bacon Blackstone Smash Burgers.

Step 3: Toast Buns
While the griddle still retains heat, butter the inside of your brioche buns generously. Place them on the griddle and toast until golden brown, which should take about 2–3 minutes. Keep an eye on them, as you want a lovely color without burning, creating a beautiful vessel for your savory burgers.

Step 4: Form Patties
Take your ground beef and shape it into loose balls, about the size of a golf ball. Place them onto the hot griddle, giving them enough space. Cover each ball with parchment paper and, using a heavy spatula, smash down to about 1/4-inch thickness. This drastic action aids in forming the crispy edges perfect for your BBQ Bacon Blackstone Smash Burgers.

Step 5: Season and Cook
Once your patties are smashed, remove the parchment carefully, and season each one with kosher salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. Allow them to cook undisturbed for approximately 2 minutes or until the edges are beautifully crispy and the juices start flowing, signaling doneness and flavor intensity.

Step 6: Flip and Top
After achieving that nice crisp, use a spatula to carefully flip each patty. Immediately top them with your choice of American or cheddar cheese. Cook for an additional minute to allow the cheese to melt luxuriously over the burgers, enhancing the overall taste of your BBQ Bacon Blackstone Smash Burgers.

Step 7: Assemble
Finally, it’s time to assemble your mouthwatering creation. Stack two cheese-topped patties on each toasted brioche bun, layer on the crispy bacon, and drizzle generously with your favorite BBQ sauce. Complete the burger with the top bun, and prepare to serve these fantastic BBQ Bacon Blackstone Smash Burgers to eager guests.

What to Serve with BBQ Bacon Blackstone Smash Burgers?

Elevate your backyard feast with flavorful sides and refreshing drinks that complement these mouthwatering burgers.

Crispy Onion Rings:
The crunch of onion rings creates a perfect contrast to the juicy burgers, enhancing every bite. Your guests will love the savory satisfaction!
Coleslaw:
A cool and creamy coleslaw provides a refreshing balance to the rich flavors of the patties. Its tangy notes can brighten the entire meal.
Potato Salad:
This classic side is creamy and comforting, making it a delightful accompaniment. A touch of mustard adds a zing that harmonizes with the BBQ sauce.
Grilled Corn on the Cob:
Sweet, charred corn brings a summer essence to your plate. Slather with butter and sprinkle with salt for a treat that’s irresistible!
Watermelon Salad:
Juicy watermelon with feta and mint adds a refreshing touch that perfectly offsets the burgers’ richness. It’s a burst of summer in every bite.
Beer or Iced Tea:
Pair these burgers with a cold beer or freshly brewed iced tea for a quintessential summer experience. Each sip keeps the barbecue spirit alive!
Chocolate Chip Cookies:
A warm, gooey cookie brings a sense of nostalgia to your cookout. Its sweetness provides the perfect conclusion to a hearty meal.

Enjoy the delightful combination of flavors and textures, making for an unforgettable summer gathering!

Expert Tips for BBQ Bacon Blackstone Smash Burgers

Choose the Right Meat: Using 80/20 ground beef ensures juicy patties with excellent flavor. Leaner cuts may lead to dry burgers.
Mind the Smash: Quickly smash the patties to achieve crispy edges, but avoid pressing them after flipping to maintain juiciness.
Parchment Paper Hack: Use parchment paper when smashing the patties to prevent sticking and ensure a smooth cooking process.
Perfectly Crispy Bacon: Cook bacon until it’s crispy and leave some grease in the pan—it enhances the flavor of the BBQ Bacon Blackstone Smash Burgers.
Toast Buns with Butter: Always toast the brioche buns in butter for added flavor and to prevent them from becoming soggy under the juicy patties.
Customize Your Flavor: Don’t hesitate to experiment with toppings like jalapeños or crispy onion rings to create your ultimate BBQ Bacon Blackstone Smash Burgers experience!

BBQ Bacon Blackstone Smash Burgers Variations

Feel free to put your own spin on these delicious burgers for even more flavor and fun!

Western Burger: Add crispy onion rings for extra crunch and richness that takes your burger to the next level. Just imagine taking a bite and feeling that delightful texture contrast!
Spicy BBQ: Use pepper jack cheese and a zesty BBQ sauce, topped with jalapeños for a heat kick that spice lovers will adore. You’ll not only elevate the flavor but also tantalize your taste buds!
Caramelized Onions: Sauté sweet onions until golden brown and layer them under the bacon. This adds a touch of sweetness that beautifully complements the savory elements.
Veggie Delight: Swap the ground beef for a hearty black bean or lentil patty. You can still enjoy crispy bacon, cheese, and BBQ sauce for a plant-based twist that doesn’t sacrifice flavor.
Blue Cheese Bliss: Top your patties with crumbled blue cheese instead of American or cheddar for a bold, tangy flavor that pairs wonderfully with bacon.
Hawaiian Style: Add grilled pineapple slices and teriyaki sauce for a tropical twist that brings a sweetness to the savory backdrop of your burger.
Mushroom Swiss: Sauté mushrooms in butter and top your patties with Swiss cheese instead of cheddar. The earthy flavors of the mushrooms pair beautifully with the beef and bacon.
BBQ Chicken Remix: For a slightly different approach, try adding shredded BBQ chicken on top of your burgers for a unique layered flavor. This gives a new life to leftovers and is sure to delight!

Consider pairing your burgers with sides like ambrosia salad or fresh strawberry pretzel salad to create a balanced and delicious summertime meal.

Make Ahead Options

These BBQ Bacon Blackstone Smash Burgers are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time during busy weeknights! You can prepare the burger patties and season them up to 24 hours in advance; simply shape them, season, and stack them between sheets of parchment paper to prevent sticking. The cooked bacon can be refrigerated for up to 3 days, keeping its crispiness and flavor intact. Just reheat it briefly before assembling. When you’re ready to serve, fire up the griddle and cook the patties for 2 minutes per side, adding cheese until melted. With these make-ahead steps, you’ll enjoy delicious burgers with minimal effort!

How to Store and Freeze BBQ Bacon Blackstone Smash Burgers

Fridge: Store leftover patties in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Keep them separate from toppings to maintain freshness.

Freezer: If you have extra patties, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil for best results. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating: To reheat, thaw patties in the fridge overnight. Warm them in a skillet over medium heat until heated through, about 3-5 minutes per side.

Bun Storage: If you have leftover toasted brioche buns, store them separately in an airtight container at room temperature for 1-2 days. Avoid refrigerating to prevent dryness.

BBQ Bacon Blackstone Smash Burgers Recipe FAQs

What is the best ground beef to use for BBQ Bacon Blackstone Smash Burgers?
Absolutely! For the juiciest and tastiest burgers, I recommend using ground beef with an 80/20 fat ratio. This blend ensures that your patties maintain moisture during cooking, helping to achieve that delicious caramelized crust. Cuts that are much leaner can lead to dry burgers, which we definitely want to avoid!

How long can I store leftover BBQ Bacon Blackstone Smash Burgers in the fridge?
You can store leftover patties in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To keep them fresh, try to keep the toppings separate until you’re ready to reassemble your burgers; this helps maintain that delightful texture and flavor!

Can I freeze BBQ Bacon Blackstone Smash Burgers?
Yes! If you have extra patties, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm in a skillet over medium heat, taking about 3-5 minutes per side until heated through.

What should I do if my patties fall apart on the griddle?
Very! If you find your patties falling apart while cooking, it may be due to not using enough fat in your beef. Ensure you’re using high-fat ground beef (like 80/20) and avoid overhandling the meat when forming the balls. If they still crumble, simply reshape them gently on the griddle; they can be salvaged!

Can pets eat BBQ Bacon Blackstone Smash Burgers?
While the ingredients in BBQ Bacon Blackstone Smash Burgers are generally safe for dogs, it’s wise to avoid giving them any bacon or spices. Dogs can digest plain cooked beef, but the added salt, garlic powder, and BBQ sauce can be harmful. Always check with your veterinarian before sharing your meals with your furry friends.