If you’re craving a burger experience that hits every note of flavor and texture, look no further than this Beef Burgers with Bacon, Horseradish Mayo & Fried Onions Recipe. It’s a spectacular combination of juicy, savory beef patties paired with crispy bacon, the zing of horseradish mayo, and sweet, caramelized fried onions that bring a deep, comforting richness to every bite. This recipe turns an everyday burger into a showstopper that you’ll want to make again and again, whether for a casual weeknight meal or a weekend gathering with friends.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward but crucial to capturing the essence of the ultimate beef burger. Each one plays an essential role, whether it’s building juicy texture, adding smoky crunch, or delivering creamy, tangy brightness.
- 1 large onion: Sliced into thin rings, it slowly caramelizes to bring sweet and golden goodness to your burger.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Helps beautifully brown the onions without overpowering flavors.
- 1/4 cup mayo: The creamy base for our horseradish sauce, adding smooth richness.
- 2 teaspoons prepared horseradish: Packs a punch of spicy, sharp heat that perfectly complements the beef.
- Salt & pepper (to taste): Seasoning that enhances all the flavors, from the beef to the sauce.
- 1 pound ground beef: The heart of the burger, make sure it’s fresh and juicy.
- 2 cloves garlic (minced): Adds fragrant depth to the beef patties.
- 1/3 cup Italian breadcrumbs: Binds the beef mixture just right to keep patties tender yet firm.
- 1 egg: Another binding agent that ensures the patties hold together perfectly.
- 4-6 slices bacon: Crispy and smoky, bacon is an absolute game-changer here.
- 4 burger buns: Soft, sturdy buns that hold all the delicious fillings without falling apart.
- Butter (if toasting buns): Adds a golden, flavorful crust to the buns when toasted.
How to Make Beef Burgers with Bacon, Horseradish Mayo & Fried Onions Recipe
Step 1: Fry the Onions to Perfection
Begin by slicing your onion into thin, uniform rings. Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat, then gently cook the onions for 20 to 25 minutes until they turn a rich golden brown. This slow caramelization unlocks their natural sweetness and soft texture while developing mouthwatering depth. Be sure to stir occasionally so they brown evenly without burning – patience here is your friend and hugely rewarding for the final flavor.
Step 2: Whip Up the Horseradish Mayo Sauce
While the onions sizzle away, mix together the mayonnaise, prepared horseradish, and seasoning in a small bowl. This sauce brings a creamy yet piquant kick that cuts through the richness of the beef and bacon. Keep it chilled in the fridge until you’re ready to assemble the burgers to keep it fresh and sharp.
Step 3: Cook the Bacon Until Crispy
In a separate pan, fry your bacon slices until they are delightfully crisp – about 10 to 15 minutes. The crunch and smoky flavor of bacon add an amazing layer of texture and taste to these burgers. Once cooked, transfer them to paper towels to drain off excess fat but keep that crispy magic intact.
Step 4: Preheat the Grill High
Prepare your grill by heating it to high. This high heat will give the burgers a beautiful sear that locks in their juices and creates irresistible charred edges—a key step for any great burger.
Step 5: Mix and Form the Burger Patties
Combine ground beef, minced garlic, breadcrumbs, egg, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Use your hands to gently mix everything together – avoid overworking the meat to keep it tender. Divide the mixture into four equal portions, then shape into patties. Press a slight indentation in the center of each patty so they cook evenly and don’t bulge in the middle on the grill.
Step 6: Grill the Burgers Just Right
Lower the grill heat to medium-high and cook the patties for about six minutes on one side. Flip them carefully and cook for another six minutes or until they reach your desired doneness. Perfectly grilled burgers have a firm but juicy texture that melts in your mouth.
Step 7: Toast the Buns with a Buttery Crunch
Toasting buns adds that perfect finishing touch. Preheat a skillet on medium-high heat, butter the cut sides of each bun, and toast them for a few minutes until golden. For extra flavor, consider using leftover bacon fat in the pan—it infuses the buns with a subtle smoky richness that’s hard to resist.
Step 8: Assemble Your Masterpiece
Layer the burgers starting with a generous spread of your horseradish mayo sauce, followed by the juicy beef patty, crispy bacon slices, and those luscious fried onions. Add any other favorite toppings you like, then crown with the top bun. Bite in and savor every indulgent, flavor-packed mouthful.
How to Serve Beef Burgers with Bacon, Horseradish Mayo & Fried Onions Recipe
Garnishes
Simple garnishes like crisp lettuce, ripe tomato slices, or pickles can brighten the rich and meaty profile of these burgers. Fresh herbs, like a sprinkle of chopped parsley or chives, add a pop of color and a subtle freshness. These garnishes enhance every bite without stealing the spotlight from the star ingredients.
Side Dishes
Classic sides like crispy fries or onion rings pair beautifully with these beef burgers. For something lighter, a crisp green salad or coleslaw offers a refreshing contrast. Roasted sweet potato wedges or grilled corn on the cob can bring seasonal flair and complement the smoky bacon and horseradish bite perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to surprise your guests? Serve mini versions of the Beef Burgers with Bacon, Horseradish Mayo & Fried Onions Recipe as sliders for a party. You could even deconstruct the burger and present each component on a platter so everyone can customize their own creation. For a rustic touch, wrap them in parchment paper and tie with twine to keep that casual, cozy vibe.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftover burger patties or toppings, store them separately in airtight containers in the fridge. The patties will keep well for up to 3 days but are best enjoyed fresh. Keep the horseradish mayo refrigerated in a sealed jar to maintain its zing.
Freezing
The burger patties freeze wonderfully. Place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually first, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Avoid freezing the buns or sauce, as texture and flavor may change upon thawing.
Reheating
To reheat patties without drying them out, warm them gently in a covered skillet over low heat or in the oven wrapped in foil. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make the beef tough. Toast the buns fresh before serving for the best experience.
FAQs
Can I use turkey or chicken instead of beef in this recipe?
Absolutely! You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. Just be mindful that cooking times might be shorter since poultry tends to dry out faster, so monitor closely to keep them juicy.
Is it okay to prepare the fried onions ahead of time?
Yes, you can fry the onions a day in advance and store them in the fridge. Gently reheat them on the stovetop or microwave before assembling the burgers to bring back their perfect softness and flavor.
How spicy is the horseradish mayo? Can I adjust it?
The horseradish mayo has a pleasant sharpness that complements the beef without overwhelming it. If you prefer milder flavors, reduce the amount of horseradish or use a milder prepared horseradish. You can always add more if you want a bigger kick!
What type of bun works best for these burgers?
Soft, slightly sweet buns like brioche or potato buns are perfect because they soak up the sauce without falling apart. However, sturdy classic hamburger buns work well if toasted properly to add crunch.
Can I make these burgers on a stovetop instead of a grill?
Definitely! Use a cast-iron skillet or heavy pan and cook the patties over medium-high heat, similar to grilling times. This method also gives you that delicious sear and juicy center—even without a grill.
Final Thoughts
There’s something incredibly satisfying about a well-crafted burger packed with layers of flavor, and this Beef Burgers with Bacon, Horseradish Mayo & Fried Onions Recipe truly delivers on every level. From the caramelized onions to the kicky horseradish sauce and crispy bacon, every bite feels like a celebration. I can’t wait for you to make these and enjoy that perfect juicy, savory bite that only a great burger can bring.
Print
Beef Burgers with Bacon, Horseradish Mayo & Fried Onions Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 4 burgers
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
Description
A delicious recipe for Beef Burgers with crispy Bacon, tangy Horseradish Mayo, and sweet Fried Onions. This meal involves slow-cooked caramelized onions, grilled beef patties seasoned with garlic and Italian breadcrumbs, and a creamy horseradish mayo sauce, all layered in toasted burger buns for a flavorful and satisfying experience.
Ingredients
Fried Onions
- 1 large onion, sliced into thin rings
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Sauce
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 2 teaspoons prepared horseradish
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Burgers
- 1 pound ground beef
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/3 cup Italian breadcrumbs
- 1 egg
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Other
- 4–6 slices bacon
- 4 burger buns
- Butter, for toasting buns
Instructions
- Cook the Onions: Slice the onion into thin rings. Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and add the onion rings. Cook for 20-25 minutes until they become nicely browned and caramelized, stirring every few minutes to prevent burning.
- Make the Sauce: In a small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, prepared horseradish, salt, and pepper. Stir well and refrigerate until needed to let the flavors meld.
- Fry the Bacon: While the onions cook, fry the bacon slices in a separate pan over medium heat for 10-15 minutes until crispy. Remove and drain on paper towels.
- Preheat the Grill: Set your grill to high heat to prepare for cooking the burgers.
- Prepare the Burger Patties: In a bowl, combine ground beef, minced garlic, Italian breadcrumbs, egg, salt, and pepper. Be careful not to overwork the mixture. Form into four equal-sized patties and create a slight divot in the center of each to promote even cooking.
- Grill the Burgers: Turn the grill down to medium-high heat. Place the patties on the grill and cook for approximately 6 minutes on one side. Flip and cook for another 6 minutes, or until the burgers are cooked through to your liking.
- Toast the Buns: Preheat a skillet over medium-high heat on the stove. Butter the cut sides of the burger buns and place them buttered side down in the skillet. Toast for a few minutes until golden brown. For extra flavor, use some of the bacon fat in the skillet. Alternatively, toast buns on the grill.
- Assemble the Burgers: Spread the horseradish mayo sauce on the buns. Layer on the grilled burgers, crispy bacon slices, caramelized onions, and any other preferred toppings. Serve immediately and enjoy your flavorful beef burgers with bacon and horseradish mayo!
Notes
- Make sure to stir the onions frequently while cooking to avoid burning and achieve a perfect caramelization.
- Creating a divot in the center of the burger patties helps them cook evenly and prevents puffing up.
- Using bacon fat to toast the buns adds extra flavor and reduces dishwashing.
- You can adjust the horseradish quantity in the mayo sauce based on your preferred spice level.
- For juicier burgers, don’t overhandle the meat mixture when forming the patties.
