Buttery Jack from Jack in the Box features a juicy, seasoned beef patty topped with creamy melted butter, smoky bacon, melted cheese, and toasted sesame seed buns, delivering a rich, savory flavor paired with a tender, buttery texture.
Equipments
- Grill or griddle
- Spatula
- Cheese slicer or pre-sliced cheese
- Butter spreader or brush
- Toaster or oven (for buns)
- Knife
- Cutting board
- Tongs
- Frying pan or skillet (for bacon)
- Meat thermometer
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 4 slices cheddar cheese
- 4 slices Swiss cheese
- 4 hamburger sesame seed buns
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 slices cooked bacon
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- Lettuce leaves (optional)
- Sliced tomato (optional)
Ground beef should be fresh and preferably 80/20 lean to achieve the perfect juicy patty, while using unsalted butter allows you to control the saltiness of the final dish. Opt for quality cheddar and Swiss cheese slices to ensure smooth melting and a balanced flavor profile. Sesame seed buns are best lightly toasted to add a subtle crunch that complements the tender texture. Cooking bacon in a skillet until crisp enhances the smoky flavor, adding a savory contrast to the creamy butter topping. Your homemade Buttery Jack from Jack in the Box copycat menu will rival the original when these ingredient choices and cooking techniques are carefully followed.
Instructions
- Instructions:
- Preheat the grill or griddle to medium-high heat.
- In a bowl, combine ground beef, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper; mix gently.
- Form beef mixture into 4 patties.
- Place patties on the grill or griddle; cook for 3–4 minutes per side or until desired doneness, using a meat thermometer if needed.
- During the last minute of grilling, add a slice of cheddar and a slice of Swiss cheese to each patty; let melt.
- While patties cook, toast hamburger buns on a toaster or oven until golden.
- In a small pan, melt unsalted butter, then brush or spread on both the tops and bottoms of toasted buns.
- In the same pan or a separate frying pan, cook bacon strips until crispy; drain on paper towels.
- Spread mayonnaise on the bottom half of each bun.
- Place lettuce and sliced tomato (if using) on the bottom buns.
- Top with the cheesy beef patty.
- Add one strip of cooked bacon on top of each patty.
- Cover with the top bun.
- Serve hot.
Substitution
Buttery Jack from Jack in the Box copycat menu can be easily customized in your kitchen by substituting Swiss cheese with provolone or mozzarella for a milder taste. Using turkey bacon or plant-based bacon alternatives offers a lighter or vegetarian-friendly option without sacrificing texture. If you don't have sesame seed buns, brioche or regular hamburger buns work well to maintain the buttery softness. Applying melted butter with a brush ensures an even coating and enhances the toasted bun's richness. Your meat thermometer helps cook the beef patty to the perfect doneness, ensuring food safety and juiciness.
Tips
Make sure to mix the ground beef gently with the spices to avoid compacting the meat, which can result in a dense and tough patty. Use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 160degF (71degC) to ensure the patties are safely cooked without overcooking. When melting the butter for the buns, melt it slowly on low heat to prevent burning and achieve a smooth, rich coating. Remember to toast the buns just until golden to add crispness without drying them out, enhancing your overall sandwich texture.
Nutritions
The Buttery Jack from Jack in the Box is a calorie-dense meal, primarily due to its combination of ground beef, butter, cheese, and bacon, which contribute significant amounts of saturated fat and protein. Each patty provides high-quality protein essential for muscle repair and satiety, while the melted butter and bacon add rich fats that enhance flavor but increase overall fat content. The sesame seed buns supply carbohydrates and some dietary fiber, balancing the macronutrient profile. Your intake includes sodium from seasoning and processed ingredients, so moderation is key if managing salt consumption.
Storage
Store your Buttery Jack sandwich in an airtight container and refrigerate within two hours of preparation to maintain freshness and prevent bacterial growth. For best results, consume within 1-2 days and reheat in a skillet or oven to preserve the melted cheese and buttery texture. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the bacon soggy and the bun less toasted.
Variation or Alternatives
You can enhance the Buttery Jack by substituting smoked gouda for cheddar and Swiss cheese to add a creamy, smoky depth. Instead of brushing the buns with melted butter, try grilling them with garlic butter to infuse rich, aromatic flavor. For a healthier twist, swap bacon with turkey bacon or use avocado slices in place of mayonnaise to add creaminess and nutrients. Experimenting with a mix of ground beef and ground pork in your patties can create a juicier texture and rich taste.
Allergies
The Buttery Jack contains common allergens such as dairy from cheddar and Swiss cheese, butter, and mayonnaise, which may contain eggs. The sesame seed buns pose a risk for individuals with sesame allergies, and the presence of beef and bacon may affect those with meat sensitivities. Your allergy concerns should be addressed by carefully reviewing these ingredients and consulting with a healthcare professional if needed.
Why this recipe?
Buttery Jack from Jack in the Box features a unique combination of a soft, buttery bun paired with a juicy, seasoned beef patty and melted cheese, creating a flavorful and satisfying taste experience. The sandwich's balanced mix of textures and savory ingredients appeals to those seeking a hearty but convenient meal. Making a copycat recipe allows you to customize the ingredients to your preference while enjoying a popular, crave-worthy flavor at home. Your effort to recreate this iconic menu item offers a rewarding culinary challenge and a delicious result.