Pretzel Bun Burger with Caramelized Onions and Bacon

A hearty burger on a soft pretzel bun with sweet caramelized onions, crisp bacon, melted cheese, and Dijon-mayo sauce.

Ingredients

• 1½ pounds 80/20 ground beef
• 1 yellow onion, thinly sliced
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• ½ teaspoon salt, plus more for the patties
• ⅓ teaspoon brown sugar, optional
• 8 bacon slices
• 4 pretzel buns, split
• 4 cheddar or Swiss cheese slices
• 3 tablespoons mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• ½ teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

1. Melt the butter with the olive oil in a skillet over medium-low heat. Add the onion, ½ teaspoon salt, and brown sugar, if using. Cook slowly, stirring occasionally, until the onions are deeply golden and soft.
2. Cook the bacon in a skillet or on a griddle until crisp. Drain it on paper towels.
3. Divide the beef into 4 patties slightly wider than the buns. Season both sides with the pepper and a pinch of salt.
4. Sear the patties on a hot griddle or skillet for about 3–4 minutes per side for medium. Add the cheese during the last minute and let it melt.
5. Whisk the mayonnaise and Dijon mustard together.
6. Toast the buns cut-side down on the griddle until warmed and lightly crisp.
7. Spread the sauce on both cut sides of the buns. Build each burger with a cheesy patty, caramelized onions, and 2 slices of bacon. Close the buns and serve.

Notes

• Garlic aioli, barbecue sauce, or beer cheese can replace the Dijon-mayo if you have a preferred pairing.
• The onions are the slow part. Make them first and hold them at room temperature while everything else comes together.