Bacon-Cheddar Smash Burgers

Thin, lacy-edged griddle smash burgers crowned with melted cheddar and crisp bacon, a staple of Symon’s outdoor cooking show.

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef (80/20)
• 8 slices thick-cut bacon
• 4 slices American or sharp cheddar cheese
• 4 soft potato buns, toasted

Kosher salt and black pepper

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
• 1/4 cup mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
• Sliced dill pickles and thinly sliced onion, for serving

Directions

1. Cook the bacon on a flat-top or skillet over medium heat until crisp; drain and reserve, leaving the rendered fat.
2. Divide the beef into 4 loose balls; do not season yet.
3. Heat the griddle to high. Place each ball on the hot surface and smash flat with a sturdy spatula for about 10 seconds. Season the tops with salt and pepper.
4. Cook 2 to 3 minutes until the edges are crisp and browned, then flip. Lay a slice of cheese on each and cook 1 minute more until melted.
5. Mix the mayonnaise and mustard, then spread on the toasted buns.
6. Stack each patty with two slices of bacon, pickles and onion, and serve.

Notes

Based on the smash burgers Michael Symon grills on Symon’s Dinners Cooking Out.