BLT Burger with Basil Aioli

Step 1

Preheat oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit. Place strips of bacon on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake in oven for 12 to 15 minutes.

Step 2

Prepare basil aioli by whisking together fresh basil, mayonnaise, garlic, mustard, vinegar, and lemon juice. (May store in refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.)

Step 3

Preheat skillet on medium high heat. Form four burger patties with ground beef and set aside. Season with salt and pepper. Cook patties for 3-4 minutes per side, or until internal temperature reaches at least 160 degrees Fahrenheit. Just before they are done, place one slice of Havarti on each patty to let the cheese melt.

Alternate cooking method:

Using a traditional grilling technique, cook patties until desired doneness, adding cheese during the last minute of cooking.

Step 4

To assemble, spread basil aioli on the bottom of the rolls. Cover with butter lettuce. Add burger patty, bacon strips, tomato slices, and top of roll (with more basil aioli, if desired).