Description
These Irish Pub Burgers with Whiskey Sauce are juicy beef patties topped with caramelized onions, crispy bacon, melted cheddar, and a rich, sweet-and-savory whiskey sauce — perfect for a pub-style meal at home.
Ingredients
- 1 ½ lbs ground beef (80/20 blend)
- 4 brioche or pub-style burger buns
- 4 slices sharp Irish cheddar cheese
- 4 slices thick-cut bacon, cooked crisp
- 1 large yellow onion, thinly sliced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 tbsp butter
- 1 tbsp all-purpose flour
- ½ cup Irish whiskey (such as Jameson)
- ½ cup beef broth
- ¼ cup heavy cream
- 1 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
Instructions
- In a skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and sliced onions. Cook slowly for 15–20 minutes until golden and caramelized. Set aside.
- In the same skillet, melt butter and whisk in flour to make a roux. Cook for 1 minute.
- Slowly pour in whiskey and cook for 1–2 minutes to let the alcohol evaporate slightly.
- Add beef broth, cream, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, and Dijon mustard. Simmer until thickened, about 5–7 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Preheat grill or skillet to medium-high heat. Form ground beef into 4 patties and season generously with salt and pepper.
- Cook burgers for 3–4 minutes per side, or until desired doneness. Add cheddar slices during the last minute to melt.
- Toast the buns lightly.
- Assemble burgers: bun bottom, burger with melted cheese, bacon, caramelized onions, and a drizzle of whiskey sauce. Top with bun lid and serve warm.
Notes
- Use high-quality Irish cheddar for authentic flavor.
- You can make the whiskey sauce ahead and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- For a non-alcoholic version, replace whiskey with apple juice and a touch of vinegar.
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 30 mins
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling / Pan-Frying
- Cuisine: Irish-American