Maple Glazed Bacon Cheeseburger

Ingredients

• 2 pounds ground beef, 80/20 blend for best juiciness
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 8 slices thick-cut bacon
• 4 slices cheese (cheddar, American, or gouda work well)
• 1/4 cup maple syrup (for glazing)
• Burger buns
• Optional toppings: lettuce, tomato, pickles, onions

Instructions

1. Start by preparing the ground beef. In a large bowl, season the ground beef with kosher salt and black pepper. Mix gently until the seasoning is evenly distributed. Be careful not to overwork the meat, as this can make the burgers tough. Divide the beef into 4 equal portions and shape them into burger patties. Press a small indent into the center of each patty with your thumb to help them cook evenly.
2. Preheat your grill or skillet over medium-high heat. If you’re using a skillet, you can add a little bit of oil to prevent sticking. Once the grill or skillet is hot, add the patties and cook for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until they reach your desired level of doneness. For a medium burger, cook until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). In the last minute of cooking, add a slice of cheese to each patty and allow it to melt.
3. While the burgers are cooking, cook the bacon in a separate pan over medium heat. Fry the bacon until crispy, about 5-7 minutes, depending on the thickness of the bacon. Once cooked, transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess grease.