Slice the onions into ¼ inch rounds discarding the roots and outer skin. Separate the rings and set aside.
Place a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the olive oil, onions, salt, and pepper, stir to coat the onions in the oil and seasonings. Cook, stirring occasionally for 15 minutes until the onions are translucent and starting to soften.
Pour the Coca-Cola into the skillet and stir to combine. Continue to cook the onions until they are caramelized, browned, soft, and almost all of the liquid is cooked out, about 15-20 minutes. Remove from the heat and set aside.
Make The Hamburger Patties
While you are cooking the onions, make the burgers. Mix the ground beef, bbq sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper in a large bowl until combined. I feel using my hands makes it easier to mix.
Divide the meat into 6 even portions and make them into patties, make an indention in the middle of the burgers so they don’t plump in the center while grilling, place on a sheet tray until ready to grill.
Preheat the grill over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the burgers, cook for about 5-8 minutes on the first side, flip them over and continue to cook until your desired temperature is reached. Do not overcook, at 165°F they are well done. Take off the heat and add a slice of cheese to each burger to melt.
Assemble The BBQ Bacon Cheeseburgers
Place a bottom of a brioche bun on your serving plate. Top with lettuce and a slice of tomato. Add a burger patty followed by a piece of bacon broken in half so it will fit. Top with the Coca-Cola onions and add the top bun. Serve immediately.
Notes
Recipe Tips
Don't Overdo The BBQ Sauce. While I added a little BBQ sauce to the hamburger patties, don't add too much, otherwise you will end up with sloppy joes instead.
Be Careful When Turning The Hamburger Patties. Since the barbecue sauce is included in the hamburger patties, it will make them a little softer. Therefore, you will need to be extra careful when turning the hamburger patties so they don't fall apart.
Be Patient. Caramelizing onions takes time. It takes longer than cooking the burgers. Don't get in a hurry, getting that caramelized texture and flavor will be worth it.
How To Store Leftover Hamburgers. I recommend storing the individual ingredients separately for the burgers. Store the grilled burgers in a separate airtight bag or container, and store the cheese, lettuce, tomatoes, and buns all separately.
Can I Freeze The Burgers? You can freeze the cooked hamburger patties. Place in airtight freezer bags or airtight freezer-safe containers and store up to 3 months.
Variations
Change The Burger Seasoning - Add some chili powder, or cayenne if you like a little heat in your burgers.
Change Up The Cheese - Tired of cheddar? Try using your favorite cheese. Some ideas includeMonterey Jack, Provolone, Swiss, Pepper Jack, or Mozzarella cheese.
Add An Egg. Add a fried egg on top of your burger.
Change Up The Burger Toppings. Add sliced avocado, sliced jalapeños, pico de Gallo, sliced pickles. The list is endless.
Saucy Onions. To change things up, add some additional barbeque sauce to the onions for extra flavor.