The Sourdough Jack from Jack in the Box features a juicy beef patty layered with melted American cheese, crispy bacon, fresh tomato slices, crunchy lettuce, and tangy mayo, all nestled between two toasted, buttery sourdough bread slices, delivering a savory and satisfying sandwich experience.
Equipments
- Grill or flat-top griddle
- Toaster or pan for sourdough bread
- Spatula
- Knife
- Cutting board
- Cheese slicer (optional)
- Squeeze bottle or spreader for mayo
- Plate or tray for assembly
Ingredients
- 1/3 lb (150g) ground beef patty
- 2 slices sourdough bread
- 2 slices American cheese
- 2 slices cooked bacon
- 2 slices tomato
- 1-2 leaves green leaf lettuce
- 1 tablespoon mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
Selecting fresh, ripe tomato slices and crisp green leaf lettuce can significantly elevate the flavor and texture of your Sourdough Jack. Using high-quality American cheese ensures that it melts smoothly over the hot beef patty. Buttering the sourdough bread before toasting adds a rich, golden crust that enhances the sandwich's savory profile. Make sure your ground beef patty is about 1/3 lb (150g) for the right balance of juiciness and size. Your homemade Sourdough Jack from Jack in the Box copycat menu will deliver a satisfying and authentic taste similar to the original.
Instructions
- Instructions:
- Preheat grill or flat-top griddle to medium-high heat.
- Form ground beef into a 1/3 lb (150g) patty.
- Season patty with salt and pepper (optional).
- Cook beef patty on grill/griddle for 3-4 minutes per side, or until desired doneness.
- Place American cheese slices on patty during last minute of cooking; cover to melt.
- Cook bacon until crispy; set aside.
- Butter one side of each sourdough bread slice.
- Toast or grill buttered bread slices until golden brown.
- Wash and dry lettuce and tomato.
- Slice tomato into 2 even slices.
- Spread mayonnaise on one toasted sourdough slice.
- Place lettuce and tomato slices on top of mayo.
- Add cheesy beef patty on top of vegetables.
- Layer crispy bacon over beef patty.
- Top with remaining sourdough slice.
- Slice sandwich in half if desired.
- Serve immediately.
Substitution
The Sourdough Jack copycat sandwich replicates the signature flavors and textures of Jack in the Box's famous menu item by combining a juicy beef patty, melted American cheese, crispy bacon, fresh tomato, crunchy lettuce, and tangy mayo on toasted sourdough bread. If sourdough bread is unavailable, a sturdy white or whole wheat bread can substitute, though it will alter the final flavor and texture. Your choice of cheese can also be varied; while American cheese gives the classic melt and creaminess, cheddar or provolone are good alternatives. Mayonnaise can be replaced with a garlic aioli or a spicy chipotle mayo to add a different dimension of taste. Cooking tools like a grill or flat-top griddle work best to achieve the beef patty's ideal sear and juiciness, but a skillet can suffice in a pinch.
Tips
Make sure your grill or griddle is adequately preheated to medium-high heat before cooking the beef patty to ensure proper searing and juiciness. Butter the sourdough bread evenly and toast it on the grill or in a pan until golden brown to add a crunchy texture and rich flavor. When adding the American cheese, place it on the patty during the last minute of cooking and cover it to melt thoroughly without overcooking the meat. Your sandwich will taste best if served immediately after assembling to preserve the crispness of the bacon and freshness of the lettuce and tomato.
Nutritions
The Sourdough Jack from Jack in the Box contains approximately 650 calories, derived primarily from its 150g beef patty, two slices of melted American cheese, and crispy bacon. The sandwich provides around 35 grams of protein, supporting muscle repair and satiety, while the sourdough bread contributes carbohydrates and a moderate amount of fiber. Fresh tomato and green leaf lettuce add dietary fiber, vitamins A and C, enhancing nutritional balance. Your intake of fats includes the mayonnaise and unsalted butter, contributing to the sandwich's rich flavor but also increasing saturated fat content.
Storage
To keep your Sourdough Jack fresh, wrap it tightly in aluminum foil or plastic wrap to preserve moisture and prevent the bread from drying out. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours to maintain the quality of the beef patty, cheese, and vegetables. When ready to eat, reheat the sandwich gently in a toaster oven or skillet to restore the toasted texture without overcooking the ingredients.
Variation or Alternatives
You can swap the American cheese for sharp cheddar or pepper jack to add a different flavor dimension. Try using garlic butter instead of unsalted butter on the sourdough bread for a more aromatic toast. Substitute mayonnaise with a chipotle aioli or spicy mustard to give the sandwich a tangy kick. For a healthier twist, grill the bacon instead of frying to reduce grease.
Allergies
Your Sourdough Jack contains common allergens such as dairy from the American cheese and mayonnaise, as well as wheat found in the sourdough bread. Individuals with allergies to eggs, present in mayonnaise, or sensitivities to gluten should avoid this sandwich. Cross-contamination with other ingredients containing soy or nuts may also be possible in a fast-food environment.
Why this recipe?
Sourdough Jack from Jack in the Box restaurant is favored for its unique combination of freshly toasted sourdough bread, a juicy beef patty, melted American cheese, crispy bacon, and savory mayo, creating a rich and satisfying flavor profile. The sandwich's balance of tangy sourdough and hearty fillings appeals to a wide range of taste preferences, making it a standout menu item. Making a copycat version allows you to customize ingredients to your liking while recreating the restaurant-quality taste at home, often saving money and catering to dietary needs. This burger's distinctive taste and texture make it worth the effort to replicate for an enjoyable, gourmet fast-food experience.