Western BBQ Burger

Step 1

Place the bacon strips flat side-by-side on a cold 12-inch skillet, with no overlap so each strip lies flat and can cook evenly on both sides.

Step 2

Turn the heat to medium and cook the bacon, stirring once every 30 seconds, until it's reddish-brown and curling at the edges, about 7–8 minutes total. Transfer to a paper towel to cool.

Step 3

Divide the ground beef into two equal portions by placing it on a clean cutting board and gently cutting it in half with a knife, keeping the halves as compact as possible.

Step 4

Using your hands, shape each beef portion into a patty about 0.75 inches thick and 3.5 inches across—it should be wider than the bun because it shrinks when cooked. Use your thumb to gently press a small indent into the center of each patty.

Step 5

Raise the heat in the skillet to medium-high and wait for about 30 seconds; then place the two beef patties into the pan. You should hear a loud sizzle immediately.

Step 6

Do not touch the patties for 3 minutes; this allows a brown crust to form on the bottom, which keeps juices inside. Resist the urge to press or flip early.

Step 7

Using a metal spatula, flip each patty in one smooth motion and cook for 2 minutes more on the other side until the internal temperature reaches 160°F on a meat thermometer inserted from the side.

Step 8

While the second side cooks, place one slice of cheddar cheese on top of each patty so it begins to melt from the residual heat.

Step 9

Break each cooled bacon strip into two smaller pieces and place 4 pieces (2 strips' worth) on top of each patty, over the melting cheese.

Step 10

Transfer both patties to a clean plate and tent loosely with aluminum foil while you toast the buns, about 2 minutes. This keeps them warm and the cheese stays melted.

Step 11

Wipe out the skillet with a paper towel, then add 1 tablespoon of butter and place it over medium heat. Once the butter is melted and foaming, about 30 seconds, place the two buns cut-side down into the pan.

Step 12

Toast the buns for 90 seconds, until the cut side turns light golden brown and feels crispy to the touch. Remove to a clean cutting board.

Step 13

Spread 2 tablespoons of BBQ sauce evenly across the inside surface of each bun's bottom half using the back of a spoon.

Step 14

Place one beef patty with bacon and cheese on top of the sauce on each bottom bun, then close the burger by placing the top bun on each patty.

Step 15

Transfer both burgers to serving plates and serve immediately while the patties and cheese are still warm.