The Black Jack Burger from Back Yard Burgers features a juicy beef patty topped with melted pepper jack cheese, crispy bacon, fresh lettuce, ripe tomato, and tangy BBQ sauce, all nestled within a toasted sesame seed bun for a flavorful and satisfying bite.
Equipments
- Grill or griddle
- Spatula
- Tongs
- Cheese slicer or knife
- Bacon press or baking tray (for bacon)
- Knife (for slicing vegetables)
- Cutting board
- Toaster or oven (for buns)
- Squeeze bottle or spoon (for BBQ sauce)
- Food thermometer (optional)
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 4 slices pepper jack cheese
- 4 slices bacon
- 4 sesame seed burger buns
- 4 leaves fresh lettuce
- 1 large tomato
- 1/3 cup BBQ sauce
When preparing your Black Jack Burger, ensure you use high-quality ground beef with sufficient fat content (around 20%) to achieve a juicy patty. Fresh toppings like crisp lettuce and ripe tomato are essential for adding texture and flavor contrast. Opt for pepper jack cheese that melts well to create that signature creamy, spicy layer. Cooking crispy bacon requires a bacon press or baking tray to avoid uneven cooking, and toasting the sesame seed buns enhances the overall taste and prevents sogginess from the BBQ sauce. Your homemade Black Jack Burger from Back Yard Burgers copycat menu will replicate the restaurant's bold flavors when these ingredient tips are followed carefully.
Instructions
- Instructions:
- Preheat grill or griddle to medium-high heat.
- Form ground beef into 4 equal patties.
- Season patties with salt and pepper (optional).
- Cook bacon on grill, griddle, or baking tray until crispy; set aside.
- Grill burger patties for 3–4 minutes per side or until desired doneness.
- Place 1 slice pepper jack cheese on each patty during last minute of cooking; let melt.
- Toast sesame seed buns on grill, toaster, or oven until lightly browned.
- Slice tomato into rounds.
- Assemble burgers: Place lettuce and tomato on bottom bun.
- Top with cheesy beef patty.
- Add 1 slice crispy bacon per burger.
- Drizzle BBQ sauce over the bacon.
- Cap with top bun.
- Serve immediately.
Substitution
The Black Jack Burger from Back Yard Burgers copycat menu uses pepper jack cheese, but you can substitute it with Monterey Jack or cheddar cheese for a milder or sharper flavor. If crispy bacon isn't available, turkey bacon or even smoked ham can provide a similar savory crunch. When fresh lettuce or tomato are out of season, consider using iceberg lettuce and sun-dried tomatoes as alternatives to maintain texture and taste. Toasting the sesame seed buns enhances flavor and texture, though any artisan bun can be used based on your preference and availability. You can apply the BBQ sauce with a spoon if a squeeze bottle is not on hand to ensure even coverage on your burger.
Tips
Make sure to handle raw ground beef carefully to avoid cross-contamination; always wash your hands and sanitize surfaces after touching the meat. Use a food thermometer to ensure patties reach an internal temperature of 160degF (71degC) for safe consumption. When cooking bacon, use a bacon press or baking tray to achieve even crispiness without curling. Your burger will be more flavorful if you toast the sesame seed buns lightly and apply BBQ sauce just before serving to keep the bun from getting soggy.
Nutritions
The Black Jack Burger from Back Yard Burgers provides a balanced mix of macronutrients featuring protein-rich beef, calcium from pepper jack cheese, and fiber from fresh lettuce and tomato. Crisp bacon adds savory flavor while contributing protein and fats, and the sesame seed bun offers carbohydrates and healthy fats from its seeds. BBQ sauce adds a tangy sweetness but also contains sugars, so portion control is key for maintaining overall nutritional balance. You can enjoy this burger as an indulgent meal that delivers essential nutrients while satisfying cravings.
Storage
Store leftover Black Jack Burgers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days to maintain freshness. Separate the patties, buns, and toppings to prevent sogginess, and reheat the beef patties on a grill or griddle to preserve flavor and texture. Your BBQ sauce and crispy bacon can be stored separately and added fresh when reheating for the best taste experience.
Variation or Alternatives
You can swap the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken to lighten the burger while maintaining juiciness by adding a bit of olive oil to the patties. Instead of pepper jack cheese, try smoked gouda or sharp cheddar for a different flavor profile that complements the BBQ sauce. For a crispier texture, cook the bacon in the oven on a baking tray using a bacon press to keep it flat and evenly cooked. Toast your buns with a light spread of garlic butter to add a rich, aromatic touch that enhances each bite.
Allergies
The Black Jack Burger contains common allergens such as dairy from the pepper jack cheese and gluten from the sesame seed buns, which may trigger reactions in individuals with lactose intolerance or gluten sensitivity. Sesame seeds on the buns are a notable allergen that could cause severe reactions for those with seed allergies. If you have any specific food allergies, it's important to verify each ingredient's safety before enjoying your burger.
Why this recipe?
The Black Jack Burger from Back Yard Burgers features a unique blend of bold spices, melted pepper jack cheese, and crispy jalapenos that create a flavorful and satisfying bite. Its juicy Angus beef patty is cooked to perfection, delivering a hearty, smoky taste that sets it apart from typical fast-food burgers. Customers often praise the balance of heat and creaminess, making it a popular choice for those craving a spicy twist. Trying to make a copycat version lets you recreate this crave-worthy experience at home, customizing the heat level to your preference while enjoying restaurant-quality flavor.