Step 1

For the bacon jam, cook the bacon in a large skillet over medium heat until crisp, 8 to 10 minutes

Step 2

Add the onion, cover and cook 10 minutes

Step 3

Uncover and cook, stirring occasionally, until very soft and golden brown, 10 to 15 minutes more

Step 4

Add the balsamic vinegar and thyme and season with salt and pepper

Step 5

Set aside

Step 6

For the secret sauce, mix the ingredients together in a small bowl

Step 7

For the burgers, preheat a grill to medium-high and brush the grates with vegetable oil

Step 8

Form the beef into six ½-inch-thick patties and season with salt and pepper

Step 9

Grill 5 minutes; flip and brush with the mustard

Step 10

Grill 5 minutes more for medium-rare, topping with the cheese during the last minute

Step 11

Spread the secret sauce on the bottom buns, then top with the burgers, bacon jam, pickles and top buns