BBQ Cowboy Burger with Pimento Cheese, Bacon, and Grilled Onions

By:

dani

Published:

September 3, 2026

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BBQ Cowboy Burger with Pimento Cheese, Bacon, and Grilled Onions is not just any burger; it’s a hearty, flavor-packed creation that delivers a delightful experience with every bite. Picture this: perfectly grilled beef patties topped with rich sharp cheddar cheese, smoky bacon, and creamy homemade pimento cheese, all nestled in a toasted bun. The addition of grilled onions brings a touch of sweetness that balances the savory elements, making it an option that stands far above typical fast food fare.

I first discovered this mouthwatering combination during a summer BBQ at a friend’s house, and I’ve never looked back. The smoky essence from the grill paired with the richness of the toppings creates an irresistible meal that’s both comforting and uplifting. This BBQ Cowboy Burger is your answer to satisfying cravings, whether you’re throwing a weekend gathering or just wanting something special for dinner. Get ready to indulge in a burger that truly delivers!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Simple & Quick: With just 15 minutes of prep and 30 minutes to cook, you can have this gourmet burger on your table in no time.
Irresistible Flavor: The combination of smoky BBQ sauce, creamy pimento cheese, and crispy bacon bursts with flavor.
Eye-Catching Appeal: This burger looks as good as it tastes, making it a showstopper for your next meal.
Flexible Serving: Perfect for summer cookouts, weeknight dinners, or casual gatherings with friends.
Budget-Friendly: Using ground beef and homemade toppings, this burger doesn’t break the bank while delivering on taste.

Ingredients You’ll Need

1 1/2 pounds 80/20 ground beef: The fat content in this blend provides juicy burgers that won’t dry out while grilling. If you prefer leaner beef, you can use 85/15 but may need to adjust cooking time.
Salt and black pepper, to taste: Essential for seasoning the beef, bringing out its natural flavors. Use kosher salt for a more even seasoning.
4 slices sharp cheddar cheese: Adds a rich, tangy flavor that melts beautifully over your burger. For a twist, try pepper jack for some heat.
4 hamburger buns: A sturdy bun is needed to hold all the toppings. Brioche or potato rolls work especially well here.
1 tablespoon butter, softened: Used to toast the buns for added flavor and a slight crunch. Don’t skimp on this step!
1 large onion, cut into thick slices: Grilling these onions lends a sweet, caramelized flavor that elevates the burger. White or yellow onions take on a lovely sweetness when grilled.
1 teaspoon oil: To brush on the onions for grilling, enhancing their flavor. Olive oil or vegetable oil are both good choices.
8 slices bacon, cooked until crispy: Adds a savory, crispy element that pairs wonderfully with the other ingredients. Turkey bacon can be a substitute if you want lighter fare.
1 large tomato, sliced: Freshness is key! This adds a juicy, crisp layer to the burger.
1 cup homemade pimento cheese: A cheesy, tangy spread that’s easy to make and gives the burger its unique kick. Store-bought can work in a pinch, but homemade is best.
1/2 cup BBQ sauce, plus more as desired: This adds a sweet and tangy flavor that complements the beef. Use your favorite brand or make your own for a personal touch.

How to Make BBQ Cowboy Burger with Pimento Cheese, Bacon, and Grilled Onions

Preheat the Grill: Start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat. This ensures a good sear on the burgers.
Prepare the Patties: Divide the 1 1/2 pounds of ground beef into four equal portions. Gently form each into a patty, making a small indentation in the center to prevent them from puffing up during cooking. Season generously with salt and pepper.
Prepare the Onions: Brush the onion slices lightly with 1 teaspoon of oil. This helps them grill beautifully.
Grill the Onions: Place the onion slices onto the grill. Cook them until softened and lightly charred, about 8-10 minutes, flipping as needed. Remove and set aside once they’re done.
Cook the Patties: Add the burger patties to the grill. Cook for about 6-7 minutes on one side. Flip them and cook until the internal temperature reaches 160°F, approximately another 5-6 minutes.
Melt the Cheese: During the last minute or two of cooking, place one slice of sharp cheddar cheese on each patty. Close the grill lid to help the cheese melt.
Toast the Buns: Butter the cut sides of the hamburger buns with 1 tablespoon of softened butter. Toast them briefly on the grill until they are golden brown.
Assemble the Burger: Start with the bottom bun. Spread with BBQ sauce, add the cheddar-topped burger patty, followed by a generous spoonful of homemade pimento cheese, grilled onions, crispy bacon slices, and tomato. Drizzle additional BBQ sauce on top before adding the top bun.
Serve: Enjoy your BBQ cowboy burger immediately while everything is warm, melty, and delicious.

Storing & Reheating

Leftover components of the BBQ Cowboy Burger can be stored at room temperature for up to 2 hours. If you have remaining burgers, wrap them in airtight containers and refrigerate for up to 3 days. To freeze, separate the patties, bacon, and any toppings, and store them in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, reheat the patties in a skillet over medium heat or in a preheated oven at 350°F until warmed through, ensuring you keep the toppings separate until serving to maintain their fresh flavors.

Chef’s Helpful Tips

Avoid pressing down on the burger patties while they cook. This can squeeze out the juices, making the burgers dry.
For juicy burgers, let the ground beef come to room temperature for about 30 minutes before shaping it into patties.
Timing is everything—have your toppings ready to go so you can assemble burgers as soon as they’re off the grill.
For extra flavor, marinade the burger patties in your BBQ sauce before grilling, or add seasonings like smoked paprika for a deeper taste.
Grill the bacon alongside the patties for added smoky flavor, or use pre-cooked bacon to save time.

Indulging in a BBQ cowboy burger with pimento cheese, bacon, and grilled onions is a delicious experience surely not to be missed. This recipe simplifies the burger-making process without sacrificing flavor, making it ideal for any occasion. Don’t hesitate to innovate; add your favorite toppings or get creative with the cheeses! And, most importantly, enjoy every bite of this savory masterpiece.

Recipe FAQs

Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be substituted for the beef, though they tend to be leaner, which means you may need to monitor the cooking time closely to avoid dryness. To enhance the flavor, consider adding additional seasoning or binding agents like egg.

Can I make the pimento cheese ahead of time?

Yes! Homemade pimento cheese can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container. The flavors will intensify and meld beautifully overnight.

How can I customize the toppings?

Feel free to get creative with your toppings! Avocado, jalapenos, or sautéed mushrooms could add a special twist. You could even mix different types of cheese to achieve a unique flavor profile.

What should I serve with these burgers?

These BBQ Cowboy Burgers pair excellently with classic sides like crispy potato wedges, coleslaw, or grilled corn on the cob. For something lighter, a fresh salad can be a nice complement, bringing a fresh crunch to your meal.