Ultimate Smash Burger with Bacon and Cheese

Introduction:

Elevate your burger game with this Ultimate Smash Burger with Bacon and Cheese recipe. Using the Arteflame grill, you'll achieve a perfect sear and juicy, flavorful patties that will impress everyone at your next BBQ. With crispy bacon and melted cheese, these smash burgers are a guaranteed hit.

Serves:

4

Ingredients:

• 1.5 lbs ground beef (80/20 blend)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 8 slices of cheddar cheese
• 8 slices of bacon
• 4 burger buns
• 2 tbsp butter
• Toppings: sliced pickles, lettuce, tomato, sliced red onion, ketchup, mustard, mayonnaise

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Grill: Fire up your Arteflame grill to get it ready for grilling. To light the grill, use three sheets of paper kitchen towels soaked in cooking oil like avocado oil, Crisco, or olive oil. Place these into the grill and stack the wood on top. Light the grill, making the process simple, easy, and quick.

2. Prepare the Bacon: Place the bacon slices on the flat cooktop griddle. Cook until crispy, then set aside on a paper towel-lined plate.

3. Prepare the Buns: Lightly spread butter on the inside of each bun. Toast the buns on the flat cooktop griddle until golden brown and set aside.

4. Form the Patties: Divide the ground beef into 8 equal portions. Roll each portion into a ball.

5. Sear the Patties: Place the beef balls on the center grill grate. Use a heavy spatula to smash each ball flat, creating a thin patty. Season with salt and pepper. Sear for 2-3 minutes until a crust forms, then flip.

6. Add Cheese: Immediately after flipping, place a slice of cheese on each patty. Move the seared patties onto the flat cooktop to finish cooking to the desired doneness.

7. Assemble the Burgers: Place two patties on the bottom half of each bun. Top with crispy bacon slices, then add your favorite toppings like sliced pickles, lettuce, tomato, sliced red onion, ketchup, mustard, and mayonnaise. Cap with the top half of the bun.

8. Serve and Enjoy: Serve the smash burgers hot off the grill and enjoy their juicy, flavorful goodness.

Tips:

• Smash Quickly: Smash the patties as soon as they hit the grill to get a good crust.
• Use Butter: Butter adds a rich flavor to the buns and helps them toast evenly.
• Optimal Heat Zones: Utilize the different heat zones on the Arteflame grill for perfect cooking.
• Remove Early: Remove the patties from the grill when the internal temperature is 15°F below the target, as they will continue to cook after being removed.

Conclusion:

These Ultimate Smash Burgers with Bacon and Cheese are a hit at any gathering. With perfectly seared patties, melted cheese, crispy bacon, and your favorite toppings, they offer a mouthwatering experience that will leave everyone craving more.

Variations:

1. Spicy Smash Burger: Add sliced jalapeños and pepper jack cheese for a spicy kick.
2. BBQ Smash Burger: Top with BBQ sauce, cheddar cheese, and crispy onion strings.
3. Mushroom Swiss Smash Burger: Replace cheddar cheese with Swiss cheese and add sautéed mushrooms.
4. Avocado Smash Burger: Add sliced avocado, lettuce, and tomato for a fresh and creamy texture.
5. Blue Cheese Smash Burger: Replace cheddar cheese with blue cheese and add caramelized onions.

Best Pairings:

• Drinks: Pair with a cold craft beer or a refreshing lemonade.
• Appetizer: Serve with crispy French fries or onion rings.
• Dessert: Follow with a classic milkshake or a slice of apple pie.