Advanced BBQ Smokehouse Burger with Smoky Pimento Cheese & Bacon Jam

Allergens

Dairy (cheese, mayonnaise) - Wheat (buns) - Eggs (mayonnaise) - Meat (beef)

Ingredients

• 4 large beef patties (preferably homemade)
• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese with pimento
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1 tbsp smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 8 slices of bacon
• 3 tbsp brown sugar
• 3 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• 4 hamburger buns
• Optional: lettuce, tomato, and onion for topping

Instructions

1. In a medium bowl, combine the shredded sharp cheddar cheese with pimento, mayonnaise, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined and set aside. This is your smoky pimento cheese spread.
2. Lay out 8 slices of bacon on a grill pan or baking sheet and cook at 400°F (200°C) for 15 20 minutes, or until crispy. Remove from heat and chop into small pieces. In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the chopped bacon, brown sugar, and apple cider vinegar. Cook for 3 4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mixture thickens into a glossy bacon jam.
3. Form your beef patties into large, thick portions, making sure they are even in size to ensure uniform cooking. Make an indentation in the center of each patty with your thumb. Season both sides generously with salt and pepper.
4. Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium high heat. Add your patties and cook for 4 5 minutes per side, or until desired doneness is reached. In the last minute of cooking, place a slice of cheese on each patty and let it melt.
5. Toast your hamburger buns on the grill for 1 2 minutes.
6. Assemble your burger by spreading smoky pimento cheese on the bottom half of each bun, followed by the juicy beef patty with melted cheese, a generous dollop of bacon jam, and optional toppings like lettuce, tomato, and onion. Place the top half of the bun and enjoy!

Chef’s Insight

To achieve the perfect melt on the cheese, ensure your patty is at least 1 inch thick. - The secret to juicy burgers lies in forming an indentation in the center of the patty before cooking.

Notes

Adjust the spice levels to your preference by adding more or less smoked paprika and brown sugar. - Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese, such as pepper jack or colby-jack, for a unique twist on the smoky pimento cheese.