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Flavorful Smoky Chipotle Bacon Burger Recipe with Easy Jalapeño Aioli

smoky chipotle bacon burger - featured image

A quick and easy smoky chipotle bacon burger with a spicy, creamy jalapeño aioli that balances bold flavors and satisfying textures. Perfect for backyard barbecues or casual dinners.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb ground beef, 80/20 blend
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • ½ tsp garlic powder
  • ½ tsp onion powder
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 6 slices thick-cut bacon
  • 1 tbsp chipotle chili powder
  • ½ cup mayonnaise
  • 1 fresh jalapeño, seeded and finely chopped
  • 1 tbsp fresh lime juice
  • 1 garlic clove, minced
  • Salt, to taste
  • 4 burger buns, toasted (brioche or potato buns preferred)
  • 4 slices sharp cheddar cheese (optional)
  • Leafy lettuce or arugula
  • Thinly sliced red onion
  • Tomato slices

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Jalapeño Aioli: In a small bowl or mini food processor, combine mayonnaise, finely chopped jalapeño, lime juice, minced garlic, and a pinch of salt. Blend or whisk until smooth. Refrigerate for about 15 minutes to meld flavors.
  2. Season the Ground Beef: Place ground beef in a mixing bowl. Add smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until combined. Divide into 4 equal portions (~4 oz each) and shape into patties about ¾ inch thick with a slight indentation in the center.
  3. Cook the Chipotle Bacon: Sprinkle chipotle chili powder evenly on both sides of bacon slices. Heat a skillet over medium heat and cook bacon 4-5 minutes per side until crispy. Drain on paper towels and reserve bacon fat.
  4. Cook the Burgers: Preheat grill or skillet to medium-high heat. If using skillet, add a tablespoon of reserved bacon fat or oil. Cook patties 4-5 minutes per side for medium doneness (160°F internal temperature). In the last minute, add cheese slices and cover loosely to melt.
  5. Toast the Buns: Lightly butter buns and toast on grill or skillet until golden and slightly crisp, about 1-2 minutes.
  6. Assemble the Burgers: Spread jalapeño aioli on bottom bun. Add lettuce or arugula, burger patty with melted cheese, two slices of chipotle bacon, tomato slices, and red onion. Top with the bun and serve immediately.

Notes

Do not overmix the meat to keep burgers juicy. Make a shallow indentation in patties to prevent puffing. Use reserved bacon fat to sear burgers for extra flavor. Adjust jalapeño seeds in aioli to control heat. Cook bacon low and slow to avoid burning chipotle seasoning. Rest burgers a few minutes before serving.

Nutrition

Keywords: smoky chipotle bacon burger, jalapeño aioli, bacon burger recipe, spicy burger, easy burger recipe, backyard barbecue, quick dinner