You’d never guess this burger is homemade.
✨ Copycat Jack in the Box Sourdough Jack (Spring Backyard Burger Favorite)
A hot, buttery Copycat Sourdough Jack instantly upgrades your backyard burger night, delivers that crispy toasted bread and melty cheese combo everyone loves, and gives your cookout that bold, drive-thru flavor — without leaving home. This homemade version brings juicy beef, smoky bacon, and golden sourdough together for a restaurant-style burger at a fraction of the cost.
If you’re planning a spring cookout spread or casual gathering, you might also love these crispy Pasta Chips for a crunchy, oven-baked side that pairs perfectly with burgers and dipping sauces.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Crispy, buttery sourdough bread instead of a standard bun
- Juicy beef patties with crispy edges
- Melty American cheese + smoky bacon combo
- Easy to make on a grill or stovetop
- Perfect for spring backyard gatherings
Ingredients
For the Burgers:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 for best flavor)
- Salt & black pepper
- 4 slices American cheese
- 4 slices bacon
- 4 slices sourdough bread
- 1 tablespoon butter (for toasting)
For the Copycat Sauce:
- ¼ cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon ketchup
- 1 teaspoon yellow mustard
- 1 teaspoon pickle relish
- Pinch garlic powder
Optional Add-Ins:
- Tomato slices
- Lettuce
- Extra pickles
- Caramelized onions
How to Make It
1️⃣ Cook the Bacon
Cook bacon in a skillet until crispy. Set aside on paper towels.
2️⃣ Form the Patties
Divide ground beef into 2 equal portions. Shape into thin patties slightly larger than your bread (they shrink while cooking). Season generously with salt and pepper.
3️⃣ Cook the Beef
Grill or pan-sear over medium-high heat for about 3–4 minutes per side. In the last minute, add two slices of American cheese per patty and let melt.
4️⃣ Make the Sauce
Mix mayo, ketchup, mustard, relish, and garlic powder in a small bowl. Chill until ready to use.
5️⃣ Toast the Sourdough
Butter one side of each slice of sourdough. Toast in a skillet until golden brown and crisp.
6️⃣ Assemble
Spread sauce on the inside of both bread slices. Add cheesy beef patty, bacon, and optional toppings. Top with second slice of sourdough.
Serve hot.
Pro Tips & Variations
Smash It:
For crispy edges like fast food, press patties down with a spatula during the first minute of cooking.
Make It Double:
Stack two thinner patties for a more authentic copycat experience.
Add a Kick:
Mix a little hot sauce into the burger sauce.
Meal Prep Option:
Form patties ahead of time and refrigerate up to 24 hours.
Air Fryer Bacon:
Cook bacon at 375°F for 8–10 minutes for easy cleanup.
Serving Ideas
This burger was made for spring entertaining.
Serve it with:
- Crispy seasoned fries
- Pasta salad
- Coleslaw
- Grilled corn
- Iced tea or homemade lemonade
For backyard parties, wrap burgers in parchment paper for that casual diner feel. Add a tray of condiments so guests can customize.
It’s also a great option for game nights, Father’s Day cookouts, or weekend family dinners when you want something indulgent but affordable.
Conclusion
This Copycat Sourdough Jack proves you don’t need a drive-thru to get that crave-worthy burger.
Buttery sourdough. Juicy beef. Crispy bacon. That creamy signature sauce. It hits all the same notes — with fresher ingredients and backyard grill flavor.
Make it once, and it’ll become your new spring grilling favorite.
Save it. Make it. And skip the drive-thru next time. 🍔
YOU MAY ALSO LIKE
If you loved this copycat backyard burger recipe, you might also enjoy making Garlic Butter Steak Bites for a quick, high-protein skillet dinner that’s perfect for busy weeknights or adding extra protein to your spring BBQ menu, serving Pesto Rack of Lamb as a show-stopping Easter dinner centerpiece or elegant holiday main course, or whipping up Creamy Deviled Eggs with Lemon & Chives as a bright, make-ahead Easter appetizer that belongs on every brunch table.
Each recipe delivers bold flavor, simple pantry ingredients, and that same satisfying homemade comfort food experience — making them ideal for Easter dinner ideas, spring cookout menus, backyard parties, or easy entertaining at home.
