Description
Smoky Bacon Double Cheeseburger
A smoky twist on the classic burger with extra cheese and bacon for bold flavors.
Ingredients:
1 lb ground beef (formed into 2 patties)
4 slices smoked cheddar cheese
4 strips hickory-smoked bacon
1 pretzel bun
1 tbsp chipotle mayo
Instructions:
Grill patties to medium and melt smoked cheddar on top.
Toast pretzel bun and spread chipotle mayo.
Stack patties, bacon, and serve hot.
#SmokyBurgerStack
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for the perfect burger. First, preheat your grill or stovetop pan to medium-high heat. While it heats, form the 1 lb of ground beef into two equal, 1/2-inch thick patties, seasoning both sides generously with salt and pepper. Cook the bacon strips in a separate skillet until crispy, then drain on paper towels. Place the beef patties on the hot grill. Cook for 4-5 minutes per side for medium doneness. In the last minute of cooking, place two slices of smoked cheddar cheese on each patty and cover the grill to melt. Simultaneously, toast the pretzel bun halves until lightly golden.
Serving Suggestions
This hearty burger stands alone but can be elevated with classic sides. Serve with a mound of crispy french fries or sweet potato wedges. For a lighter option, pair with a simple coleslaw or a crisp garden salad. A cold, dark beer or a creamy milkshake are ideal beverage pairings to complement the smoky, rich flavors.
How-to Summary
To summarize: Form and season two beef patties. Cook bacon until crispy. Grill patties to medium, topping with cheese to melt at the end. Toast the bun. Assemble by spreading chipotle mayo on the bun, then stacking the cheesy patties and bacon. Serve immediately.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of cheese? Absolutely. While smoked cheddar provides the signature smokiness, gouda, pepper jack, or Swiss are excellent substitutes.
What if I don’t have a grill? A cast-iron skillet or heavy frying pan works perfectly. Get it very hot to achieve a good sear on the patties.
How can I make this less spicy? Substitute the chipotle mayo for regular mayonnaise, a garlic aioli, or a classic burger sauce.
What’s the best way to form the patties? Handle the meat as little as possible to keep it tender. Make a slight indentation in the center of each raw patty to prevent it from puffing up during cooking.
Can I prepare anything ahead of time? Yes. You can form the patties, cook the bacon, and make the chipotle mayo ahead of time. Store them separately in the fridge and cook the patties just before serving.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overworking the Meat: This makes the patties tough and dense. Mix and form gently.
- Pressing Patties on the Grill: This squeezes out flavorful juices, leading to a dry burger. Resist the urge to press.
- Using Cold Meat: Let the formed patties sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes before cooking for more even grilling.
- Overcrowding the Pan/Grill: This steams the meat instead of searing it. Cook in batches if necessary.
- Forgetting to Toast the Bun: A toasted bun adds crucial texture and prevents it from becoming soggy.
Conclusion
The Smoky Bacon Double Cheeseburger is a decadent upgrade to a classic, combining the rich flavors of smoked cheese, crispy bacon, and a spicy kick from chipotle mayo. By following the step-by-step guide and avoiding common pitfalls, you can create a restaurant-quality burger at home. This recipe is perfect for a weekend cookout or a special weeknight dinner that is sure to impress.
