Carnivore Bacon Jam Grilled Cheeseburgers

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Few things satisfy like a perfectly grilled cheeseburger, and when you layer it with smoky, sweet, and savory bacon jam, the result is nothing short of indulgent. This recipe is a dream come true for carnivores and anyone who loves a rich, meaty burger packed with bold flavors. Instead of traditional condiments, the star here is the bacon jam — slow-cooked bacon, onions, and a touch of seasoning cooked down into a luscious spread. Pair that with melty cheese and a juicy beef patty, and you’ve got a burger that takes comfort food to an entirely new level.

These Carnivore Bacon Jam Grilled Cheeseburgers are perfect for backyard barbecues, special weekend dinners, or even as a show-stopping meal for game day. Whether you serve them between toasted buns or go fully carnivore by wrapping them in crisp lettuce or enjoying them bunless, this recipe guarantees big flavor in every bite.

Ingredients

For the Bacon Jam:

  • 1 lb thick-cut bacon, diced

  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped

  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

  • 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar (or beef bone broth for strict carnivore)

  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce (optional for depth)

  • 1 tsp smoked paprika

  • 1 tbsp sugar-free sweetener or a splash of balsamic vinegar (optional, depending on diet)

  • Salt and black pepper, to taste

For the Burgers:

  • 2 lbs ground beef (80/20 blend for juiciness)

  • 1 tsp salt

  • 1 tsp freshly ground black pepper

  • 1 tsp garlic powder (optional)

  • 4–6 slices of sharp cheddar, provolone, or your favorite cheese

  • 1 tbsp butter or beef tallow, for grilling

For Assembly (choose your style):

  • Brioche or sourdough buns, lightly toasted

  • OR crisp lettuce leaves for bunless/carnivore style

  • Extra slices of bacon (optional, for garnish)

  • Pickles or grilled onions (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Make the Bacon Jam

  1. In a large skillet, cook the diced bacon over medium heat until the fat renders and the bacon turns crispy. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the bacon to a plate, leaving a few tablespoons of bacon fat in the pan.

  2. Add the chopped onion to the skillet and cook low and slow until caramelized, about 10–15 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent burning.

  3. Add the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

  4. Stir in the vinegar (or broth), Worcestershire sauce, paprika, and sweetener or balsamic if using. Let the mixture simmer until it thickens slightly.

  5. Return the crispy bacon to the pan, stirring until everything is coated and jam-like in consistency. Cook for 5 more minutes, then remove from heat and let cool slightly. Set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Burger Patties

  1. Preheat your grill or skillet over medium-high heat.

  2. In a mixing bowl, gently combine the ground beef with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Do not overmix, or the patties will become tough.

  3. Divide into 4 large patties, slightly larger than your buns as they will shrink during cooking. Press a small indentation in the center of each patty with your thumb to ensure even cooking.

Step 3: Grill the Burgers

  1. Melt butter or beef tallow in your skillet, or lightly oil the grill grates.

  2. Place patties on the grill or skillet and cook for 3–4 minutes per side for medium doneness, adjusting for your preference.

  3. During the last minute of cooking, place a slice of cheese on top of each patty and cover the pan or close the grill lid to let it melt beautifully.

Step 4: Assemble the Burgers

  1. If using buns, toast them lightly on the grill or skillet for extra flavor.

  2. Place the cheesy patty on the bottom bun or lettuce leaf.

  3. Generously spoon bacon jam over the burger. Add extra toppings like more bacon, pickles, or grilled onions if desired.

  4. Finish with the top bun or another lettuce leaf, and serve immediately.

Tips for Success

  • Meat Quality Matters: Choose high-quality ground beef with some fat content (80/20 is ideal). Too lean, and your burger will be dry.

  • Low and Slow for Bacon Jam: Patience is key — let the onions caramelize and the bacon flavors develop fully. The jam can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to a week.

  • Carnivore Style: Skip the vinegar and sweetener in the jam, and just use bacon, onions (optional for strict carnivore), and beef broth. Enjoy bunless with crisp lettuce or even sandwiched between two cheese crisps.

  • Cheese Options: Sharp cheddar is classic, but blue cheese or smoked gouda bring bold flavors that pair beautifully with the bacon jam.

Serving Suggestions

These Carnivore Bacon Jam Grilled Cheeseburgers shine as the main attraction, but you can round out the meal with crispy oven-baked fries, grilled vegetables, or even just extra strips of bacon for a fully carnivore plate. A dill pickle spear or a cold glass of iced tea also makes a refreshing complement to this rich and savory burger.

Final Thoughts

A classic cheeseburger already has plenty of comfort food appeal, but adding bacon jam elevates it into gourmet territory. The smoky, salty, and slightly sweet jam melds perfectly with the rich beef and gooey cheese, creating a bite that is both decadent and satisfying. Whether you enjoy it in traditional bun form or keep it fully carnivore-friendly, this recipe is one that will earn repeat appearances on your dinner table.

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