Bacon Cheeseburger

Serves 4

Ingredients

• 1.5 lbs ground beef (80/20)
• 1 tsp kosher salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 8 bacon strips
• 4 cheddar cheese slices
• 4 hamburger buns
• 2 tbsp butter
• 4 romaine lettuce leaves
• 4 tomato slices
• 4 red onion slices
• 8 dill pickle slices
• 1/4 cup ketchup
• 2 tbsp yellow mustard

Instructions

1. 1Preheat grill or cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat.
2. 2Divide ground beef into 4 equal portions (about 6 oz each) and gently form into patties slightly wider than the buns. Make a small thumbprint in the center of each patty to prevent bulging.
3. 3Season both sides of patties with salt and pepper.
4. 4Cook bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy, about 8 minutes. Drain on paper towels and set aside.
5. 5Butter the cut sides of the hamburger buns. Toast on the grill or in a skillet until golden, about 1-2 minutes. Set aside.
6. 6Cook burger patties on the hot grill or skillet for 3-4 minutes per side for medium doneness (internal temp 160°F).
7. 7During the last minute of cooking, place one slice of cheddar on each patty and cover to melt.
8. 8Assemble burgers: Spread ketchup and mustard on the bottom bun, add lettuce, tomato, onion, pickle slices, the cheeseburger patty, strips of bacon per burger, and top with the toasted top bun.
9. 9Serve immediately with your favorite sides.