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Dirty Diner Smash Burger with Bacon Jam and Fried Egg

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A flavorful diner-style smash burger featuring crispy edges, homemade bacon jam, melted cheddar, and a runny fried egg, perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb ground beef, 80/20 blend recommended
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • Vegetable oil or canola oil, for the skillet
  • 6 oz thick-cut bacon, diced
  • 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup strong brewed coffee
  • 2 tbsp brown sugar
  • 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
  • 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
  • Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 4 large eggs
  • Butter or oil for frying eggs
  • 4 soft burger buns (brioche or potato buns recommended)
  • 4 slices sharp cheddar cheese
  • Green leaf lettuce or shredded iceberg lettuce
  • Tomato slices
  • Dill pickle slices (optional)
  • Condiments like mustard or mayo (optional)

Instructions

  1. Make the Bacon Jam: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, cook diced bacon until it starts to crisp, about 5-7 minutes. Remove some excess fat, leaving about 1 tablespoon in the pan.
  2. Add chopped onion and cook until softened and translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
  3. Add brewed coffee, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, smoked paprika, and red pepper flakes. Reduce heat to low and simmer gently, stirring occasionally, until thickened and jam-like, about 20-25 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
  4. Prepare Burger Patties: Divide ground beef into 4 equal portions (about 4 oz each). Lightly shape into loose balls without overworking.
  5. Heat a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat and add a small drizzle of oil. Once hot, place one beef ball in the skillet and press down firmly with a sturdy spatula to smash the patty thin (about 1/4 inch thick). Season with salt and pepper immediately.
  6. Cook the patty without moving for 2-3 minutes until edges are deeply browned and crispy. Flip carefully, add a slice of cheddar cheese on top, and cook the other side for 1-2 minutes for medium doneness. Repeat with remaining patties.
  7. Fry the Eggs: In a separate non-stick pan, melt butter or heat oil over medium heat. Crack eggs gently and cook until whites are set but yolks remain runny, about 2-3 minutes. For less runny yolks, flip and cook an additional 30 seconds.
  8. Toast the Buns: Split and toast buns lightly in the skillet or toaster.
  9. Assemble Burgers: Spread a generous spoonful of bacon jam on the bottom bun. Add a smashed patty with melted cheddar, a fried egg, lettuce, tomato slices, and pickles if using. Top with the bun crown.
  10. Serve immediately with your favorite sides.

Notes

Use a sturdy metal spatula for smashing patties to get crispy edges. Bacon jam can be made ahead and refrigerated for up to a week. For gluten-free, use gluten-free buns or lettuce wraps. For dairy-free, use vegan cheese or skip cheese. Keep finished patties warm in a low oven if assembling multiple burgers. Adding bourbon or maple syrup to bacon jam adds a twist.

Nutrition

Keywords: smash burger, bacon jam, fried egg, diner burger, homemade burger, quick burger recipe, easy dinner, bacon jam recipe

Find it online: https://realityeats.com/dirty-diner-smash-burger-recipe-easy-homemade-bacon-jam-and-fried-egg/