The Ultimate Brunch Burger (Fried Egg, Bacon, and Special Sauce)
The Ultimate Brunch Burger (Fried Egg, Bacon, and Special Sauce) is a medium American recipe that serves 4. 820 calories per serving. Recipe by America's Test Kitchen on YouTube.
Prep: 24 min | Cook: 26 min | Total: 1 hr 5 min
Cost: $47.13 total, $11.78 per serving
Ingredients
- 0.5 cup Mayonnaise (regular, not low‑fat)
- 1.5 tablespoon Canned Chipotle Chilies in Adobo (minced)
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire Sauce
- 1 tablespoon Maple Syrup (pure grade A)
- 0.5 teaspoon Black Pepper (freshly ground)
- 8 ounce Bulk Breakfast Sausage (pork, seasoned)
- 1 pound Ground Beef (85% lean)
- 0.25 teaspoon Kosher Salt
- 4 pieces Brioche Buns (soft, 4‑inch diameter)
- 0.5 teaspoon Sesame Seeds
- 0.5 teaspoon Poppy Seeds
- 0.5 teaspoon Dried Minced Garlic
- 0.5 teaspoon Dried Onion Flakes
- 0.5 teaspoon Kosher Salt (for topping)
- 1 large Large Egg (for brushing buns) (lightly beaten)
- 4 slices Thick‑Cut Bacon (cut in half lengthwise)
- 4 slices Cheddar Cheese (about 1 oz each, sharp)
- 4 large Large Egg (for frying) (one per burger)
Instructions
Prepare Chipotle Mayo Sauce
In a mixing bowl combine 0.5 cup mayonnaise, 1.5 Tbsp minced chipotle chilies in adobo, 1 Tbsp Worcestershire sauce, 1 Tbsp maple syrup, and 0.5 tsp freshly ground black pepper. Stir until smooth.
Time: PT5M
Mix Meat and Form Patties
In a large bowl add 8 oz bulk breakfast sausage and 1 lb 85% lean ground beef. Sprinkle with 0.25 tsp salt and 0.25 tsp pepper. Gently mix with hands until just combined. Divide into four equal portions (about 6 oz each) and shape each into a 4½‑inch diameter patty. Press a shallow divot in the center of each patty with your thumb.
Time: PT10M
Make Everything‑Bagel Topping
Combine 0.5 tsp sesame seeds, 0.5 tsp poppy seeds, 0.5 tsp dried minced garlic, 0.5 tsp dried onion flakes, and 0.5 tsp kosher salt in a small bowl. Lightly beat 1 large egg and brush the tops of the 4 brioche buns with the egg. Sprinkle the seed mixture evenly over the brushed tops.
Time: PT5M
Bake Buns
Place the topped buns on a parchment‑lined baking sheet and bake in a pre‑heated 350°F oven for about 5 minutes, until the egg set and the seeds are lightly toasted.
Time: PT5M
Temperature: 350°F
Cook Bacon
In a large skillet over medium heat, lay the 4 thick‑cut bacon slices (halved lengthwise) in a single layer. Cook 8–10 minutes, turning occasionally, until crisp. Transfer to a paper‑towel‑lined plate to drain.
Time: PT9M
Sear First Side of Burgers
Add the reserved 1 Tbsp bacon fat to the same skillet and heat over medium‑high until it just starts to smoke. Place the four patties (divot side up) in the pan. Cook 4–6 minutes, until the bottom is deep brown.
Time: PT5M
Flip, Add Cheese, and Finish Cooking
Reduce heat to medium‑low. Flip each patty, top with one slice of cheddar cheese, and continue cooking 5–7 minutes, or until internal temperature reaches 160°F and cheese is melted.
Time: PT6M
Drain Burgers
Transfer cooked burgers to a paper‑towel‑lined plate to absorb excess grease.
Time: PT1M
Fry Eggs
Wipe the skillet clean, add 1 Tbsp of the remaining bacon fat, and heat over medium‑high. Crack the 4 eggs (one per burger) into the pan simultaneously, season each with a pinch of salt, and cover with a lid. Cook 45 seconds for runny yolks (or up to 2 minutes for firmer yolks). Remove from heat and set aside.
Time: PT1M
Assemble the Brunch Burgers
Spread a generous spoonful of the chipotle mayo on both the bottom and top halves of each bun. Place a cooked patty on the bottom bun, top with two halves of crisp bacon, then the fried egg. Crown with the toasted bun top.
Time: PT2M
Nutrition Facts
- Calories
- 820
- Protein
- 35 g
- Carbohydrates
- 35 g
- Fat
- 50 g
- Fiber
- 2 g
Dietary info: Contains pork, Contains beef, Gluten, Not vegetarian, Not vegan
Allergens: Eggs, Dairy, Wheat, Soy
Ingredient Substitutions
- Instead of Mayonnaise: Greek yogurt, sour cream
- Instead of Canned Chipotle Chilies in Adobo: chipotle powder, smoked paprika + hot sauce
- Instead of Worcestershire Sauce: soy sauce, fish sauce
- Instead of Maple Syrup: honey, agave nectar
- Instead of Black Pepper: white pepper
- Instead of Bulk Breakfast Sausage: Italian sausage, chorizo
- Instead of Ground Beef: ground turkey, ground chicken
- Instead of Kosher Salt: sea salt
- Instead of Brioche Buns: potato rolls, pretzel buns
- Instead of Sesame Seeds: tahini
- Instead of Poppy Seeds: sesame seeds
- Instead of Dried Minced Garlic: garlic powder
- Instead of Dried Onion Flakes: onion powder
- Instead of Kosher Salt (for topping): sea salt
- Instead of Large Egg (for brushing buns): egg white
- Instead of Thick‑Cut Bacon: pancetta, prosciutto
- Instead of Cheddar Cheese: American cheese, Swiss cheese
- Instead of Large Egg (for frying): egg substitute
Equipment Needed
- Mixing Bowl
- Measuring Spoons
- Kitchen Scale (optional)
- Whisk or Fork
- Pastry Brush
- Baking Sheet
- Parchment Paper
- Oven
- Large Skillet / Frying Pan
- Tongs
- Spatula
- Meat Thermometer
- Paper Towels
- Plate
- Cutting Board
- Chef’s Knife
Critical Steps — Do Not Skip
- Making the chipotle mayo sauce
- Forming the meat patties with a central divot
- Toasting the brioche buns with everything‑bagel topping
- Cooking the bacon to crispness without burning
- Searing the burgers to develop a deep crust
- Ensuring internal temperature reaches 160°F for safety
- Frying the eggs to the desired doneness while keeping yolks runny
- Assembling the burger with sauce on both bun halves
Chef Tips from the Video
- Press a shallow well in the center of each patty before cooking; it levels out as the meat contracts.
- Use medium‑high heat until the pan just starts to smoke—this gives the burgers a great crust without burning.
- For extra flavor, add a pinch of smoked paprika to the meat seasoning.
- If you prefer a sweeter note, drizzle a little extra maple syrup over the assembled burger.
Troubleshooting
Patties fall apart during cooking.
Handle the meat gently and avoid over‑mixing. The divot helps keep the shape; if needed, add a tablespoon of bread crumbs as a binder.
Bun topping slides off after baking.
Make sure the egg wash is evenly applied and the buns are dry before brushing. Bake just until the egg sets; over‑baking can cause the coating to crack.
Egg yolk is too firm.
Cover the pan and reduce cooking time to 45 seconds for runny yolks, or lower the heat and finish the egg off the burner.
Excess grease makes the burger soggy.
Drain the cooked patties on paper towels and wipe the skillet before cooking the next batch. Use only the measured amount of bacon fat for each step.
Storage
Refrigerator: Store assembled burgers (without the egg) in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Keep sauce separate and reheat patties before serving.
Freezer: Uncooked patties can be wrapped tightly and frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before cooking.
Room temperature: Buns and sauce can sit at room temperature for up to 4 hours; keep covered.
Make-Ahead Tips
- Prepare the chipotle mayo sauce up to 24 hours ahead and refrigerate.
- Form the patties, press the divot, wrap tightly in plastic, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
- The everything‑bagel topping can be mixed and stored in a small jar for several days.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cultural significance and history of the brunch burger in American cuisine?
The brunch burger blends classic American breakfast staples—bacon, eggs, and maple syrup—with the beloved hamburger, reflecting the United States' love of hearty, all‑day meals. It emerged from the late‑20th‑century brunch trend, where diners sought indulgent, protein‑packed dishes that could be enjoyed any time of day.
What are traditional regional variations of a brunch burger in the United States?
In the Pacific Northwest, brunch burgers often feature smoked salmon or avocado. In the South, you’ll find biscuits or cornbread buns, and the sauce may include hot sauce or bourbon. The West Coast loves adding fresh greens and artisanal cheeses, while the Midwest sticks to classic cheddar and maple‑glazed bacon.
How is a brunch burger traditionally served in American brunch settings?
Typically, the burger is plated on a large plate with a side of hash browns or home‑fries, and a small fruit salad or fresh berries. The runny yolk acts as a natural sauce, so diners are encouraged to cut into the burger with a fork and knife to let the yolk flow over the toppings.
What occasions or celebrations is the brunch burger traditionally associated with in American culture?
Brunch burgers are popular for weekend brunches, holiday gatherings like Thanksgiving brunch, and casual celebrations such as birthdays or game‑day parties where a hearty, crowd‑pleasing dish is desired.
What makes the brunch burger special or unique in American cuisine?
Its uniqueness lies in combining breakfast flavors—bacon, egg, maple syrup—with a classic beef‑and‑sausage patty and a tangy chipotle mayo. The runny yolk creates a rich, silky sauce that ties all the savory and sweet elements together, offering a truly over‑the‑top experience.
What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making the brunch burger from America's Test Kitchen?
Common errors include over‑mixing the meat (which makes the patty tough), not pressing a divot (causing a puffed‑up burger), under‑seasoning the sauce, and over‑cooking the egg so the yolk solidifies. Also, neglecting to drain excess grease can make the bun soggy.
Why does this brunch burger recipe use a mixture of breakfast sausage and ground beef instead of just one meat?
Combining pork breakfast sausage with lean ground beef adds both flavor and moisture. The sausage contributes seasoned fat and a subtle sage note, while the beef provides structure and a classic burger texture, resulting in a juicier, more complex patty.
Can I make the brunch burger ahead of time and how should I store the components?
Yes. The chipotle mayo sauce can be refrigerated for up to 24 hours. Formed patties can be wrapped and chilled for the same period or frozen for up to two months. Cooked bacon and toasted buns keep well in airtight containers for a day. Re‑heat patties and assemble just before serving to keep the buns crisp.
What texture and appearance should I look for when cooking the brunch burger patties?
The first side should develop a deep, caramelized crust with a slightly charred edge. After flipping, the interior should reach 160°F and the cheese should be fully melted, creating a glossy surface. The patty should be flat (no dome) thanks to the pre‑pressed divot.
What does the YouTube channel America's Test Kitchen specialize in?
The YouTube channel America's Test Kitchen specializes in rigorously tested, science‑based cooking tutorials that focus on reliable techniques, thorough ingredient explanations, and equipment reviews, helping home cooks achieve consistent, restaurant‑quality results.
How does the YouTube channel America's Test Kitchen's approach to American brunch recipes differ from other cooking channels?
America's Test Kitchen emphasizes precise measurements, step‑by‑step troubleshooting, and controlled experiments to determine the best methods. Their brunch recipes, like this brunch burger, include detailed timing, temperature guidance, and safety notes, whereas many other channels rely more on intuition and visual cues alone.
Last updated: August 21, 2026
