Spicy Bacon Kraut Burger: The Ultimate Jalapeño Popper Sauerkraut Mashup
Prepare your taste buds for an extraordinary culinary experience! This isn’t just any burger; it’s a gastronomic marvel where the fiery kick of a jalapeño popper meets the tangy, satisfying crunch of a classic sauerkraut burger. We’re talking about a Spicy Bacon Kraut Burger crafted with lean ground beef, generously loaded with smoky bacon, fresh minced jalapeño, robust sauerkraut, and melted mozzarella cheese. The result? A flavor explosion that’s truly epic and unlike anything you’ve tasted before. If you’ve been searching for the best burger recipe to elevate your grilling game, your quest ends here.
The inspiration for this magnificent creation struck me at the height of gardening season. My son, with his green thumb, brought in an abundance of vibrant jalapeños from his garden. My usual tradition involves transforming these fresh peppers into delightful jalapeño poppers – you know the kind: creamy cheese-stuffed jalapeños, wrapped in crispy bacon, and grilled to perfection. They’re always a hit! However, this time, I yearned for something more substantial, a main course that could capture those beloved flavors in a new and exciting format. Simultaneously, I had been reminiscing about those incredible Kraut Stuffed Bacon Wrapped Brats I shared a few weeks prior. The problem? No brats in the fridge! That’s when the brilliant idea sparked: “What about a burger?” And just like that, the vision for this ultimate Spicy Jalapeño Kraut Burger took shape, promising a symphony of flavors that would revolutionize our burger nights.
This post is proudly sponsored by Frank’s Kraut. While this collaboration brings you this fantastic recipe, my unwavering love and appreciation for their delicious sauerkraut dates back to my cherished childhood memories. Their quality and flavor are simply unmatched, making them the perfect partner for this unique burger.
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One particular evening, with my son and his girlfriend over, the weather had finally offered a delightful reprieve from the scorching heat, making it absolutely perfect for relaxing on the patio. The grill was fired up, and the anticipation for a truly special dinner filled the air. These weren’t going to be just “regular” burgers; boring burgers have no place in our culinary adventures! While we certainly appreciate a classic burger from time to time, when I venture into something a little more “off the wall,” they are always met with enthusiastic approval and rave reviews. This Spicy Bacon Kraut Burger is no exception, quickly earning its place among our family favorites. It joins the ranks of other wildly popular creations like my vibrant Italian Burgers from this summer, the incredibly rich Green Chile Mushroom Burgers with Monterey Jack Cheese Sauce, and the savory Western Burgers. And of course, I’d be remiss if I didn’t mention two other fantastic burger recipes I’ve crafted for Frank’s Kraut in the past, showcasing the incredible versatility of sauerkraut in enhancing burger flavors.
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Now, back to the star of the show: these incredible Spicy Bacon Kraut Burgers. What makes them truly stand out, beyond their exceptional flavor, is how surprisingly easy they are to prepare. They require minimal prep work and even less fuss during cooking. The beauty of these burgers lies in their self-contained deliciousness; they’re so bursting with flavor on their own that it’s hardly necessary to add any extra dressings or elaborate toppings – unless, of course, you’re feeling adventurous! The perfect blend of lean ground beef, smoky bacon, spicy jalapeño, tangy sauerkraut, and creamy mozzarella cheese ensures every bite is a culinary delight. The meticulous combination of ingredients ensures a moist, flavorful patty that needs little accompaniment. This burger is a complete experience in itself, designed to be simple to execute yet profoundly satisfying.
What You’ll Need to Craft These Spicy Bacon Kraut Burgers:
Creating these phenomenal burgers calls for a few simple yet high-quality ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role in building the layers of flavor that make this burger so unforgettable. From the base of lean ground beef to the essential tangy kraut and spicy jalapeños, here’s what you’ll need for this recipe:
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 2 fresh jalapeños, finely minced (adjust to your preferred spice level – see notes!)
- 1/2 cup Frank’s Kraut, thoroughly drained to prevent soggy patties
- 8 slices of thick-cut bacon, cooked until crispy and then crumbled
- 4 slices of Mozzarella cheese, for that perfect melt
- 4 soft and slightly sweet Brioche buns, to perfectly complement the savory fillings
These carefully selected ingredients work in harmony to create a burger that’s juicy, flavorful, and wonderfully textured. The lean ground beef provides a solid foundation, while the bacon introduces a irresistible smokiness and saltiness. The minced jalapeños bring the heat and fresh zest, balanced beautifully by the distinctive tang of Frank’s Kraut. Mozzarella cheese adds a creamy, mild counterpoint, melting gloriously over the hot patty, and the brioche buns offer a rich, slightly sweet, and soft vessel to hold it all together.
The preparation for these burgers is straightforward, ensuring you’ll be enjoying them in no time. Begin by combining all the patty ingredients: the lean ground beef, the finely minced jalapeños, the drained Frank’s Kraut, and the delicious crumbled bacon. Mix these thoroughly but gently, just enough to incorporate everything without overworking the meat. Once combined, divide the mixture and form four generously sized patties. A crucial tip for successful grilling: always make your burger patties slightly larger than your buns. This accounts for the natural shrinkage that occurs during cooking. The higher the fat content in your ground beef, the more pronounced this shrinkage will be, so starting bigger ensures your burger perfectly fits its bun.
Once your flavorful patties are perfectly formed, it’s time to fire up the grill! Place them carefully on the hot grates and grill them to your desired level of doneness. For a medium-rare burger, aim for about 5-6 minutes per side. If you prefer medium, target 7-8 minutes per side, and for well-done, 9-10 minutes. Remember that grilling times can vary based on your grill’s temperature and the thickness of your patties. Always use a meat thermometer to ensure food safety and achieve your preferred internal temperature. A good sear on the outside locks in the juices, creating a tender and delicious patty.
As your burgers approach their perfect doneness, the final touch is to add a slice of mozzarella cheese over each patty during the last minute or two of grilling. Cover the grill for a moment to allow the cheese to melt into a wonderfully gooey, irresistible layer. This creamy mozzarella provides a smooth contrast to the spicy jalapeños and tangy sauerkraut, tying all the flavors together beautifully. Once the cheese is perfectly melted and the burgers are cooked to your liking, carefully transfer them onto your prepared brioche buns. The soft, slightly sweet brioche complements the savory, spicy, and tangy flavors of the patty, creating a harmonious and truly satisfying bite.
For those who truly adore the distinctive tang and crunch of sauerkraut – and let’s be honest, who doesn’t? – there’s absolutely no judgment if you decide to pile a little extra Frank’s Kraut on top of your finished burger. It adds an extra layer of texture and a burst of fermented flavor that perfectly elevates this already spectacular Spicy Bacon Kraut Burger. Feel free to customize with your favorite additional toppings, though these burgers are certainly flavorful enough to stand on their own. Enjoy every single savory, spicy, and tangy bite of this culinary masterpiece!
Sauerkraut, a time-honored fermented food, has been cherished for centuries not only for its unique taste but also for its astounding nutritional benefits. This humble cabbage creation is a powerhouse of health, making it a favorite among health enthusiasts, athletes, supermodels, and celebrity chefs worldwide. Incorporating sauerkraut into your daily diet is a fantastic way to boost your overall well-being. It is widely recognized as an excellent immune booster, thanks to its rich probiotic content that supports a healthy gut microbiome. A robust gut is often linked to a stronger immune system, helping your body fight off illness. Furthermore, studies suggest that sauerkraut possesses cancer-fighting properties, making it a valuable addition to a preventative diet. Its probiotic benefits also significantly aid in digestion, promoting regularity and nutrient absorption. The versatility of sauerkraut is remarkable; it can be used in thousands of ways beyond being a burger topping. I, myself, have enjoyed it in hearty soups, crisp salads, innovative appetizers, and even surprisingly, in a moist chocolate cake! To explore the vast world of sauerkraut recipes, take a peek at ALL of the Frank’s Sauerkraut recipes right here on my blog. You’ll find countless more creative and delicious ideas over on Frank’s website, and across all their vibrant social media channels: Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, and Instagram. Discover the endless possibilities and health advantages of this incredible superfood!
Feeling hungry yet? The enticing aroma of smoky bacon, the vibrant spice of jalapeños, and the savory goodness of beef and kraut are calling! It’s time to bring this sensational Spicy Bacon Kraut Burger to life in your own kitchen. Gather your ingredients, fire up the grill, and prepare for a burger experience that will delight your senses and leave you craving more. This recipe is more than just a meal; it’s a celebration of bold flavors and culinary creativity. Don’t wait – make these unforgettable burgers tonight!
If you’ve fallen in love with sauerkraut and want to delve deeper into its fascinating world, we have just the resource for you! Discover everything you’ve ever wanted to know about kraut: where it comes from, how it’s traditionally made, its rich history, and a plethora of innovative sauerkraut recipes. Explore its incredible health benefits and versatile uses in our comprehensive Ultimate Guide to Sauerkraut. This guide is your one-stop shop for becoming a true sauerkraut connoisseur!
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Print Recipe
Spicy Bacon Kraut Burger
Ingredients
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 1/2 cup Frank’s Kraut
- 8 slices thick bacon cooked and crumbled
- 2 jalapeños minced
- 4 slices Mozzarella cheese
- 4 Brioche buns
Instructions
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In a large bowl, combine the lean ground beef, drained Frank’s Kraut, minced jalapeños, and crumbled cooked bacon. Mix gently until all ingredients are well incorporated. Divide the mixture into four equal portions and form into patties, making them slightly larger than your brioche buns to account for shrinkage during cooking.
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Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Place the patties on the grill and cook for approximately 5-7 minutes per side for medium doneness, or adjust according to your preference. Remember to use a meat thermometer for accurate internal temperature (160°F for ground beef).
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During the last minute of grilling, place a slice of mozzarella cheese on top of each patty. Close the grill lid briefly to allow the cheese to melt perfectly.
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Carefully transfer the cheesy burgers onto the brioche buns. Serve immediately and enjoy the incredible fusion of flavors. Optional: Add an extra spoonful of Frank’s Kraut on top for an extra tangy kick!
Notes
Nutrition