Unleash Your Inner Wing Master: Recreating Buffalo Wild Wings’ Bacon Menu at Home
Buffalo Wild Wings (BWW) is a haven for sports enthusiasts and wing aficionados alike. Their menu is vast and varied, but among the crowd-pleasers, their bacon-infused offerings stand out. From the smoky bacon jam burgers to the crispy bacon-topped wings, the chain knows how to leverage the irresistible appeal of bacon. This article guides you through recreating some of the most iconic bacon-centric dishes from Buffalo Wild Wings right in your own kitchen.
**Why Recreate BWW’s Bacon Menu at Home?**
There are several reasons why you might want to tackle this culinary project:
* **Cost Savings:** Dining out can be expensive, especially for a family. Making these dishes at home will significantly reduce your costs.
* **Customization:** You can adjust the ingredients and spice levels to your exact preferences.
* **Convenience:** No need to wait in line or deal with crowds. Enjoy your favorite bacon-themed treats in the comfort of your own home.
* **Dietary Control:** You have complete control over the ingredients, allowing you to opt for healthier alternatives or accommodate dietary restrictions.
* **Fun and Rewarding:** Cooking can be a therapeutic and rewarding experience, especially when you get to enjoy the delicious results.
**Dish 1: Bacon Jam Burger (BWW-Inspired)**
The Bacon Jam Burger is a BWW staple, combining the classic appeal of a burger with the sweet and savory complexity of bacon jam. Here’s how to make a version that rivals the original:
**Ingredients:**
* **For the Bacon Jam:**
* 1 pound thick-cut bacon, chopped
* 1 large yellow onion, thinly sliced
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 1/4 cup brown sugar
* 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
* 2 tablespoons maple syrup
* 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
* 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
* 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
* Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
* **For the Burgers:**
* 2 pounds ground beef (80/20 blend recommended)
* 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
* 1 teaspoon garlic powder
* 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
* Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
* 4 hamburger buns
* Your favorite burger toppings (lettuce, tomato, pickles, cheese – cheddar, pepper jack, or provolone work well)
* Mayonnaise or your favorite burger sauce
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Bacon Jam:** In a large skillet or Dutch oven, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside, reserving about 2 tablespoons of bacon fat in the pan. If there is more than 2 tablespoons, drain the excess.
2. Add the sliced onion to the skillet and cook over medium-low heat until softened and caramelized, about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally. Be patient and don’t rush this step, as caramelizing the onions is crucial for the depth of flavor.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
4. Stir in the brown sugar, balsamic vinegar, maple syrup, apple cider vinegar, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using). Bring the mixture to a simmer, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
5. Return the cooked bacon to the skillet and stir to combine. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for about 30-45 minutes, or until the jam has thickened and the flavors have melded. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. The jam should be thick enough to spread easily.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Allow the bacon jam to cool slightly before using.
7. **Prepare the Burgers:** In a large bowl, gently combine the ground beef, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Avoid overmixing, as this can result in tough burgers.
8. Divide the mixture into 4 equal portions and form into patties, slightly larger than the buns (they will shrink during cooking). Make a slight indentation in the center of each patty with your thumb to prevent them from bulging while cooking.
9. **Cook the Burgers:** Preheat your grill or a large skillet over medium-high heat. If using a skillet, add a tablespoon of oil.
10. Cook the burgers for about 4-5 minutes per side for medium-rare, or longer if you prefer them more well-done. Use a meat thermometer to ensure they reach your desired internal temperature.
11. During the last minute of cooking, add your favorite cheese slices to the burgers and allow them to melt.
12. **Assemble the Burgers:** Lightly toast the hamburger buns. Spread mayonnaise or your favorite burger sauce on the bottom bun. Add lettuce, tomato, and pickles (if using). Place the cheeseburger on top of the toppings.
13. Generously spread the bacon jam over the cheese. Top with the other half of the bun and serve immediately.
**Tips for the Best Bacon Jam Burger:**
* **Use high-quality bacon:** The bacon is the star of the show, so choose a thick-cut, flavorful bacon.
* **Caramelize the onions properly:** Don’t rush the caramelization process. It’s essential for the depth of flavor in the bacon jam.
* **Adjust the sweetness:** If you prefer a less sweet bacon jam, reduce the amount of brown sugar or maple syrup.
* **Don’t overcook the burgers:** Use a meat thermometer to ensure they are cooked to your desired doneness.
* **Toast the buns:** Toasting the buns prevents them from getting soggy.
**Dish 2: Honey BBQ Bacon Wings (BWW-Inspired)**
BWW’s wings are legendary, and their Honey BBQ Bacon wings are a fan favorite. Here’s how to recreate them at home:
**Ingredients:**
* 2 pounds chicken wings, separated into drumettes and wingettes
* 1 tablespoon baking powder
* 1 teaspoon salt
* 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
* 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
* 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
* 1/2 cup honey BBQ sauce (your favorite brand or homemade)
* 4 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
* Optional: Chopped green onions or parsley for garnish
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Wings:** Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil.
2. In a large bowl, toss the chicken wings with baking powder, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Make sure the wings are evenly coated with the mixture. The baking powder helps to dry out the skin and make it extra crispy.
3. Arrange the wings in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, making sure they are not overcrowded. Overcrowding will steam the wings instead of baking them crispy.
4. **Bake the Wings:** Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the wings are cooked through and the skin is crispy and golden brown. Flip the wings halfway through cooking to ensure even browning.
5. **Sauce the Wings:** While the wings are baking, prepare the honey BBQ sauce. If you are using store-bought sauce, you can simply warm it up in a saucepan. If you are making your own, follow your favorite recipe.
6. Once the wings are cooked, remove them from the oven and transfer them to a large bowl.
7. Pour the honey BBQ sauce over the wings and toss to coat evenly. Make sure all the wings are coated in the sauce.
8. **Add the Bacon:** Sprinkle the crumbled bacon over the sauced wings.
9. **Serve:** Arrange the wings on a serving platter and garnish with chopped green onions or parsley, if desired. Serve immediately.
**Tips for the Best Honey BBQ Bacon Wings:**
* **Use baking powder:** Baking powder is the secret to crispy baked wings. It helps to dry out the skin and create a crispy texture.
* **Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet:** Overcrowding will steam the wings instead of baking them crispy. Use two baking sheets if necessary.
* **Use a good quality honey BBQ sauce:** The sauce is a key component of the flavor, so choose a honey BBQ sauce that you enjoy.
* **Cook the bacon until crispy:** Crispy bacon adds a nice texture and flavor contrast to the wings.
* **Garnish with fresh herbs:** Chopped green onions or parsley add a pop of color and freshness to the wings.
**Dish 3: Bacon Ranch Fries (BWW-Inspired)**
Bacon Ranch Fries are the ultimate comfort food side dish. Here’s how to make a version that’s just as good as BWW’s:
**Ingredients:**
* 2 pounds frozen french fries (steak fries or regular fries)
* 4 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
* 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
* 1/2 cup ranch dressing (your favorite brand or homemade)
* Optional: Chopped green onions or parsley for garnish
**Instructions:**
1. **Cook the Fries:** Preheat your oven according to the package directions for the frozen french fries.
2. Spread the fries in a single layer on a baking sheet.
3. Bake the fries according to the package directions, or until they are crispy and golden brown.
4. **Assemble the Fries:** Once the fries are cooked, remove them from the oven and transfer them to a serving platter.
5. Sprinkle the crumbled bacon and shredded cheddar cheese over the fries.
6. Drizzle the ranch dressing over the fries.
7. **Melt the Cheese (Optional):** If you want the cheese to be melted, you can place the fries under the broiler for a minute or two, until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Watch carefully to prevent burning.
8. **Garnish and Serve:** Garnish with chopped green onions or parsley, if desired. Serve immediately.
**Tips for the Best Bacon Ranch Fries:**
* **Use good quality frozen fries:** Choose a brand of frozen fries that you enjoy.
* **Cook the fries until crispy:** Crispy fries are essential for a good bacon ranch fries experience.
* **Use a good quality ranch dressing:** The ranch dressing is a key component of the flavor, so choose a ranch dressing that you enjoy.
* **Don’t overcook the fries under the broiler:** Watch carefully to prevent burning the cheese.
* **Serve immediately:** Bacon ranch fries are best served immediately, while the fries are still hot and the cheese is melted.
**Dish 4: Grilled Chicken Buffalo Ranch Wrap (BWW-Inspired with Bacon Twist)**
This recipe adds a bacon twist to the classic BWW chicken wrap.
**Ingredients:**
* 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
* 1 tablespoon olive oil
* 1 teaspoon paprika
* 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
* 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
* Salt and pepper to taste
* 4 large flour tortillas
* 1/2 cup Buffalo wing sauce (adjust to your spice preference)
* 1/2 cup Ranch dressing
* 1/2 cup shredded lettuce
* 1/4 cup diced tomatoes
* 4 slices cooked bacon, crumbled
* 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Chicken:** Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Rub the mixture evenly over the chicken breasts.
2. **Grill the Chicken:** Grill the chicken breasts for 6-8 minutes per side, or until cooked through and no longer pink inside. Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing or shredding.
3. **Assemble the Wraps:** Warm the tortillas slightly in a dry skillet or microwave for a few seconds to make them more pliable. Spread about 2 tablespoons of Buffalo wing sauce on each tortilla, followed by 2 tablespoons of Ranch dressing.
4. Top with shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, and sliced or shredded grilled chicken. Sprinkle with crumbled bacon and shredded cheddar cheese (if using).
5. **Wrap it Up:** Fold in the sides of the tortilla, then roll it up tightly from the bottom. If desired, you can grill the wrapped burrito for 1-2 minutes per side to seal it and warm the filling.
6. **Serve:** Cut the wrap in half and serve immediately.
**Tips for the Best Buffalo Ranch Wrap with Bacon:**
* **Marinate the Chicken (Optional):** Marinating the chicken in a simple marinade like buttermilk or yogurt with spices for at least 30 minutes will make it even more tender and flavorful.
* **Control the Spice Level:** Adjust the amount of Buffalo wing sauce to control the heat level. You can also use a milder version of the sauce.
* **Warm the Tortillas:** Warming the tortillas prevents them from cracking when you roll them.
* **Don’t Overfill the Wraps:** Overfilling the wraps will make them difficult to roll and eat.
* **Grill for a Sealed Wrap (Optional):** Grilling the wrapped burrito will seal it and warm the filling, making it even more delicious.
**Dish 5: Bacon Cheese Burger Dip (BWW-Inspired Appetizer)**
This creamy, cheesy dip is perfect for parties or game day.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 pound ground beef
* 4 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
* 1/2 cup chopped onion
* 1 (8 ounce) package cream cheese, softened
* 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
* 1/2 cup mayonnaise
* 1/4 cup ketchup
* 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
* 1 teaspoon garlic powder
* Salt and pepper to taste
* Tortilla chips, for serving
**Instructions:**
1. **Brown the Beef:** In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef. Drain off any excess grease. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. **Combine Ingredients:** In a large bowl, combine the browned ground beef and onion with the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, mayonnaise, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly combined.
3. **Bake or Heat on Stovetop:**
* **Oven Method:** Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until heated through and bubbly.
* **Stovetop Method:** Transfer the mixture to a saucepan and heat over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through and the cheese is melted and smooth.
4. **Add Bacon:** Stir in the crumbled bacon just before serving.
5. **Serve:** Serve warm with tortilla chips.
**Tips for the Best Bacon Cheeseburger Dip:**
* **Use Full-Fat Cream Cheese:** Full-fat cream cheese will give the dip the creamiest texture.
* **Shred Your Own Cheese:** Shredding your own cheese will melt more smoothly than pre-shredded cheese.
* **Adjust the Seasoning:** Taste the dip before baking and adjust the seasoning as needed.
* **Use a Variety of Cheeses (Optional):** You can use a combination of cheddar, Monterey Jack, and pepper jack cheese for a more complex flavor.
* **Serve with Different Dippers:** Offer a variety of dippers, such as tortilla chips, crackers, vegetables, or pretzel crisps.
**Conclusion:**
Recreating your favorite bacon-infused dishes from Buffalo Wild Wings at home is easier than you might think. With these recipes and tips, you can enjoy the same delicious flavors and textures without breaking the bank or leaving the comfort of your own kitchen. So, fire up the grill, grab your ingredients, and get ready to unleash your inner wing master! These dishes are sure to be a hit with family and friends, whether you’re watching the game or just looking for a delicious and satisfying meal. Enjoy!