Bacon Cheddar BBQ Smash Burger

Ingredients:

For the burger patties:

• 1 pound ground beef (80/20 blend recommended)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 4 slices of cheddar cheese
• 8 slices of bacon

For assembling the burger:

• 4 burger buns
• Lettuce leaves
• Sliced tomatoes
• Sliced red onions
• BBQ sauce
• Mayonnaise (optional)
• Ketchup and mustard (optional)

Instructions:

1. Cook the Bacon:
   • Heat a skillet over medium heat.
   • Place the bacon slices in the skillet and cook until they are crispy.
   • Once cooked, transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess grease. Set aside.
2. Prepare the Burger Patties:
   • Divide the ground beef into 4 equal portions.
   • Gently shape each portion into a loose ball without overworking the meat.
   • Season both sides of each ball with salt and pepper.
3. Cook the Burger Patties:
   • Preheat a skillet or flat griddle over medium-high heat.
   • Place a portion of ground beef onto the hot surface and immediately press down firmly with a spatula to flatten it into a thin patty (about 1/4-inch thick).
   • Cook the patties for about 2-3 minutes until the edges start to crisp and brown.
   • Flip the patties and immediately place a slice of cheddar cheese on each patty to melt.
4. Assemble the Burgers:
   • While the cheese is melting, spread a thin layer of mayonnaise, ketchup, or mustard (if using) on the bottom half of each burger bun.
   • Place a lettuce leaf on top of the sauce to create a base for the burger.
   • Add a cooked burger patty with melted cheese on top of the lettuce.
   • Layer two slices of crispy bacon on each patty.
   • Add sliced tomatoes and red onions.
   • Drizzle BBQ sauce over the toppings.
   • Place the top half of the bun over the toppings.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
   • Serve the Bacon Cheddar BBQ Smash Burgers immediately while they’re hot and the cheese is melted.
   • These burgers pair well with sides like crispy fries, onion rings, or a side salad.

Enjoy the deliciousness of the Bacon Cheddar BBQ Smash Burger—the crispy bacon, melted cheddar, and BBQ flavors make it an irresistible treat!