Description
Impressive yet easy-to-make bacon-wrapped burgers stuffed with smoked cheddar, designed for grilling and perfect for summer cookouts.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 pounds (900g) ground beef (80/20 blend)
- 8 oz (225g) smoked cheddar cheese, cut into 8 thick slices
- 16 slices thick-cut bacon
- 2 teaspoons kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 8 burger buns (brioche or potato)
- Optional toppings: lettuce, tomato, onion, pickles
Instructions
- Cut smoked cheddar into 8 thick slices (approx. 1/4 inch). Divide ground beef into 8 equal portions (6 oz each) and form into patties slightly wider than buns. Make a dimple in the center of each patty.
- Place a slice of smoked cheddar in the center of each patty. Fold the edges of the beef up and over the cheese, pinching to seal completely. Flatten back into a patty shape.
- Lay two strips of bacon in an X shape. Place the burger in the center. Wrap the bacon around the burger, crossing over the top and tucking ends under to encase the patty securely.
- Place wrapped burgers on a sheet pan and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set the bacon and keep cheese cold.
- Preheat grill to medium-high heat (375°F-400°F). Place burgers bacon-side down on the grill.
- Cook for 4-5 minutes until bacon starts to crisp and has grill marks. Do not move burgers during this time.
- Flip burgers carefully. Cook for another 4-6 minutes. If bacon browns too fast, move to indirect heat. Cook until internal temperature reaches 140°F for medium.
- Remove burgers from grill and let rest for 5 minutes. Toast buns on the grill for the last minute. Assemble and serve immediately.
Notes
Keep cheese cold until grilling to prevent leakage. Wrap bacon tightly using the X-wrap technique to secure it without toothpicks. Use a thermometer to ensure doneness, aiming for 140°F. Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days; reheat in a skillet or oven to crisp the bacon.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 burger with bun an
- Calories: 650
- Sodium: 900
- Fat: 45
- Carbohydrates: 30
- Protein: 35
Keywords: bacon wrapped burgers, smoked cheddar, labor day recipes, grilling, summer cookout, beef burgers, easy grilling