If you’re craving a burger with some serious swagger, look no further than these Loaded Cowboy BBQ Bacon Burgers. We’re talking about juicy ground beef mixed with smoky barbecue sauce, melty cheddar cheese, crispy bacon, red onions, and jalapeños—all stacked high on a toasted bun. These burgers bring the full rodeo of flavor, balancing sweet, smoky, spicy, and savory in every bite.

Perfect for grilling season, weekend cookouts, or anytime you want to saddle up to something seriously satisfying.

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Why I Love This Recipe

What makes this burger “cowboy-style”? It’s the bold, smoky barbecue kick paired with bacon and heat—simple ingredients elevated with big flavor. You mix everything right into the patties, so each bite is loaded with cheesy, saucy, meaty goodness.

They’re just as crowd-pleasing as Sheet Pan Quesadillas and as over-the-top satisfying as Dorito Casserole. Whether you’re hosting game day or just making dinner extra epic, these burgers deliver.

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Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef
• ½ cup BBQ sauce (plus more for topping)
• ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 4 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled (plus extra for topping)
• ¼ cup diced red onion
• ¼ cup diced jalapeños (fresh or pickled)
• 4 hamburger buns
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Ingredient Notes & Swaps

• BBQ Sauce: Use smoky, spicy, or sweet depending on your flavor preference.
• Jalapeños: Go fresh for heat or pickled for tangy crunch.
• Cheese: Cheddar is classic, but pepper jack adds even more kick.
• Meat Options: Ground turkey or plant-based beef can be subbed in with no problem.

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Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Mix the Patties
   In a large bowl, combine ground beef, BBQ sauce, shredded cheddar, crumbled bacon, diced red onion, and jalapeños. Mix gently until just combined.
2. Form the Patties
   Divide the mixture into 4 equal portions. Shape each into a burger patty, about ¾ inch thick. Season both sides with salt and pepper.
3. Preheat the Grill
   Heat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Oil the grates lightly to prevent sticking.
4. Grill the Burgers
   Cook the patties for 4–5 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches your desired doneness (160°F for well done).
5. Toast the Buns
   Place the hamburger buns cut-side down on the grill during the last 1–2 minutes to toast.
6. Assemble the Burgers
   Place one burger patty on each bun. Top with additional BBQ sauce, extra cheese, more bacon, onion, and jalapeños if desired.
7. Serve Hot
   Serve immediately with your favorite sides and enjoy the bold cowboy flavor!

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Tips for Success

• Don’t overmix the meat: Gently combine ingredients to avoid tough burgers.
• Preheat your grill: Ensure even sear and prevent sticking.
• Use a thermometer: Check internal temp to avoid under- or overcooking.

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Serving Suggestions & Pairings

Make it a full cowboy meal with:

• Crockpot Nacho Dip as a cheesy, spicy starter
• Beer Cheese Dip with pretzel bites or fries
• Dorito Casserole for a bold side
• Chicken Enchiladas if you’re feeding a hungry crowd
• A big pitcher of iced tea or lemonade to cool the heat

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Storage & Leftover Tips

• Fridge: Store leftover cooked patties in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Reheat: Warm in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave.
• Freeze: Freeze uncooked patties between parchment layers in a sealed bag for up to 2 months.

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More Recipes You’ll Love

Keep your flavor game strong with:

• Sheet Pan Quesadillas – cheesy, customizable, and easy
• Dorito Casserole – crunchy, cheesy, craveable
• Crockpot Nacho Dip – your new party go-to
• Beer Cheese Dip – creamy, sharp, and satisfying
• Chicken Enchiladas – always a hit at the table

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Final Thoughts

These Loaded Cowboy BBQ Bacon Burgers are more than just a meal—they’re a full-on flavor experience. Smoky, cheesy, spicy, and a little sweet, they bring the kind of big, bold taste that makes any night feel like a summer cookout. Don’t forget the napkins—these burgers are messy in the best way.

Tried them? Tag @ChefManiac with your cowboy burger pics and let us know how you loaded yours. And don’t forget to subscribe for more next-level burger recipes and bold BBQ ideas.