Classic American BBQ Bacon Cheeseburgers on the Arteflame Grill

Introduction

Nothing says American BBQ like a juicy bacon cheeseburger. With the Arteflame grill, you’ll achieve the perfect sear on the patties and crisp the bacon to golden perfection. This recipe takes full advantage of the Arteflame’s high-heat center grill and the versatile flat top cooktop for an unforgettable burger experience.

Ingredients

For the Burgers:

• 2 lbs ground beef (80/20 blend for juiciness)
• 8 slices of thick-cut bacon
• 4 slices of cheddar cheese
• 4 brioche burger buns
• 1 large onion, thinly sliced
• 1 large tomato, sliced
• Lettuce leaves
• Pickles, sliced
• 4 tbsp butter
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Sauce:

• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 2 tbsp ketchup
• 1 tbsp mustard
• 1 tsp pickle relish
• 1 tsp smoked paprika

Instructions

1. Fire Up the Arteflame

Start by firing up your Arteflame grill. Allow the center grill grate to reach over 1,000°F for a perfect sear, while the outer flat cooktop heats up to an even temperature suitable for cooking the rest of your ingredients.

2. Prepare the Bacon

Place the bacon strips on the outer flat cooktop. Let them cook slowly, flipping occasionally, until they reach your desired level of crispiness. Once done, move them to the cooler outer edge to stay warm.

3. Sear the Burger Patties

While the bacon is cooking, form your ground beef into four equal patties, pressing slightly in the center to prevent puffing. Season each patty generously with salt and pepper. Place the patties on the center grill grate to sear, cooking each side for about 2-3 minutes to achieve a rich, caramelized crust.

4. Move Patties to the Flat Cooktop

After searing, move the patties to the outer flat cooktop to continue cooking. Add a slice of cheddar cheese to each patty, allowing it to melt. Cook the patties until they reach an internal temperature of 135°F for medium-rare, or longer if desired.

5. Toast the Buns

Butter the brioche buns and place them on the flat cooktop. Toast until golden brown and slightly crispy.

6. Assemble the Burgers

In a small bowl, mix together all the sauce ingredients. Spread the sauce generously on the bottom half of each bun. Layer with lettuce, tomato, pickles, the cheese-covered patty, and crispy bacon slices. Top with the bun and press lightly.

7. Serve

Serve your bacon cheeseburgers hot off the grill with your favorite sides like fries or grilled veggies.

Tips

• Grill the Onions: For extra flavor, grill the onion slices on the flat cooktop until caramelized.
• Doneness Reminder: Remove the patties from the grill when they are 15°F below your desired internal temperature. They will continue to cook as they rest.
• Extra Smoky Flavor: Add a handful of wood chips to the fire for a hint of smokiness in the burgers.

Variations

1. Spicy Jalapeño Burger: Add grilled jalapeños and pepper jack cheese for a spicy kick.
2. BBQ Bourbon Burger: Brush the patties with bourbon BBQ sauce and use smoked gouda cheese.
3. Mushroom Swiss Burger: Sauté mushrooms on the flat cooktop and top with Swiss cheese.
4. Avocado Ranch Burger: Add avocado slices and ranch dressing for a creamy texture.
5. Blue Cheese & Caramelized Onion Burger: Top with crumbled blue cheese and grilled onions.

Pairings

• Side: Sweet potato fries or grilled corn on the cob.
• Drink: A cold American lager or a glass of iced tea.
• Dessert: Grilled peaches with vanilla ice cream.

Conclusion

With the Arteflame grill, these Classic American BBQ Bacon Cheeseburgers are elevated to a whole new level. The perfect sear on the patties and the crisp bacon are sure to make these a crowd favorite at your next BBQ.