Hickory-Smoked BBQ Beef Burger

Ingredients:

For the burger patties:

• 1 pound ground beef (80/20 blend recommended)
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 4 slices of smoked gouda or your preferred smoked cheese

For the BBQ sauce:

• 1 cup ketchup
• 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

For smoking the burgers:

• Hickory wood chips, soaked in water for at least 30 minutes

For assembling the burger:

• 4 burger buns
• Crispy lettuce leaves
• Sliced tomatoes
• Sliced red onions
• Pickles (optional)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the BBQ Sauce:
   • In a saucepan, combine ketchup, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
   • Heat the sauce over medium heat, stirring frequently until the ingredients are well combined.
   • Let the sauce simmer for about 10-15 minutes until it thickens slightly. Remove from heat and set it aside.
2. Prepare the Grill for Smoking:
   • If using a gas grill, place a smoker box or aluminum foil pouch filled with the soaked hickory wood chips directly on the grill’s heat source.
   • Preheat the grill to medium-high heat, aiming for a temperature around 275-300°F (135-150°C) for smoking.
3. Make the Burger Patties:
   • In a mixing bowl, combine the ground beef with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
   • Gently mix the seasonings into the ground beef without overworking the meat.
   • Divide the seasoned beef into 4 equal portions and shape them into burger patties, ensuring they’re slightly larger than the buns to allow for shrinkage during cooking.
4. Smoke the Burger Patties:
   • Place the burger patties on the grill indirectly, away from direct heat, over the smoker box or heat source with the hickory chips.
   • Close the grill lid and let the burgers smoke for approximately 25-30 minutes. Ensure the internal temperature reaches at least 160°F (71°C) for safe consumption.
   • During the last few minutes of smoking, add a slice of smoked gouda or your preferred smoked cheese on top of each patty to melt.
5. Prepare the Burger Assembly:
   • While the burgers are smoking, lightly toast the burger buns on the grill until they are golden brown.
6. Assemble the Burgers:
   • Spread a generous amount of the prepared BBQ sauce on the bottom half of each toasted bun.
   • Place a crispy lettuce leaf on top of the sauce to create a base for the burger.
   • Add a smoked and cheesy burger patty on top of the lettuce.
   • Layer sliced tomatoes and red onions on the patty.
   • Add pickles if desired.
   • Cover with the top half of the bun.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
   • Serve the Hickory-Smoked BBQ Beef Burgers immediately, allowing everyone to relish the smoky flavors and savory goodness.
   • Pair these burgers with classic sides like coleslaw, potato salad, or seasoned fries.

Indulge in the delightful smokiness of these Hickory-Smoked BBQ Beef Burgers for a satisfying meal!