Grilled Applewood-Smoked Bacon Burgers - Connecticut Style

Introduction

These Grilled Applewood-Smoked Bacon Burgers are packed with flavor, featuring juicy beef patties seared to perfection on the Arteflame grill, then topped with Connecticut’s famous applewood-smoked bacon. The secret is using the high heat of the center grill grate to achieve a steakhouse-quality crust before gently finishing the patties on the flat top for the perfect doneness. Combining premium ingredients with expert grilling techniques, this recipe delivers an unforgettable burger experience.

Ingredients

• 1.5 lbs ground beef (80/20 blend for juiciness)
• 6 slices applewood-smoked bacon
• 4 burger buns
• 1 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1 tsp kosher salt
• 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper
• 4 slices cheddar cheese
• Lettuce leaves
• Tomato slices
• Red onion slices
• Pickles
• 1 tbsp mayonnaise
• 1 tbsp mustard

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Arteflame Grill

1. Pour some vegetable oil on three paper napkins and place them inside the grill.
2. Stack firewood over the soaked napkins.
3. Light the paper napkins and let the fire spread to the wood.
4. Allow 20 minutes for the grill to heat up before cooking.

Step 2: Cook the Applewood-Smoked Bacon

1. Place the bacon slices on the flat cooktop griddle.
2. Cook until crispy, flipping occasionally, then remove and set aside.

Step 3: Form and Season the Burger Patties

1. Divide the ground beef into four equal portions and shape into patties.
2. Season both sides with kosher salt and black pepper.

Step 4: Sear the Burger Patties

1. Place the patties on the center grill grate, searing for about 1-2 minutes per side until a crisp crust forms.
2. Move the patties to the flat cooktop to finish cooking to the desired doneness.
3. Remove patties from the grill when they are 15°F below the target internal temperature.

Step 5: Toast the Burger Buns

1. Spread butter on the burger buns and place them on the flat cooktop.
2. Toast until golden brown, then remove from the grill.

Step 6: Assemble the Burgers

1. Spread mayonnaise and mustard on the bottom buns.
2. Layer lettuce, tomato, pickles, and red onion slices.
3. Place the grilled burger patty on top and add a slice of cheese.
4. Top with crispy bacon and the upper burger bun.

Tips

• Use high heat on the center grill grate to sear the patties and lock in juices.
• Let patties rest for a few minutes after cooking for even distribution of juices.
• Cook bacon on the flat cooktop griddle for even crispiness without burning.
• Keep all ingredients prepped and ready to assemble for a smooth grilling experience.

Variations

1. BBQ Bacon Burger: Add BBQ sauce and caramelized onions.
2. Spicy Jalapeño Burger: Top with spicy jalapeños and pepper jack cheese.
3. Mushroom Swiss Burger: Add sautéed mushrooms and Swiss cheese.
4. Avocado Ranch Burger: Include sliced avocado and ranch dressing.
5. Blue Cheese Bacon Burger: Replace cheddar with blue cheese crumbles.

Conclusion

These Grilled Applewood-Smoked Bacon Burgers showcase the best of Connecticut’s famous applewood-smoked bacon combined with a juicy, flavorful patty. The Arteflame grill ensures a steakhouse-quality sear while allowing perfect doneness with the reverse searing technique. Try these variations to customize your burger experience and make it your own!

Best Pairings

• Grilled corn on the cob with butter
• Sweet potato fries cooked on the Arteflame griddle
• Classic coleslaw for a refreshing crunch
• Cold craft beer or homemade lemonade