The Perfect Burger

Step 1

Pre-heat grill on high heat.

Step 2

Form 4 patties from the ground beef (1/4 pound each). Gently press your thumb into the center of each patty to form a depression. Generously season both sides with salt and pepper. Let sit while you prepare your other ingredients.

Step 3

Slice tomatoes and onions into thick slices (about 1/2 inch). Slide metal skewers through each onion slice to hold them together while on the grill.

Step 4

Prepare Secret Sauce:

In a medium bowl, mix together mayonnaise, pickle juice, ketchup, mustard, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder. Set aside.

Step 5

To prepare bacon:

Bake in a 400*F oven for 15-20 minutes on a baking sheet. You can also cook on a foil-lined tray on the grill, depending on your space.

Step 6

Grill beef patties over high heat until they reach desired degree of doneness (about 4-5 minutes per side for medium) or appropriate internal temperature. Flip patties only once during grilling. Add 1 cheese slice to each patty in the last minute of grilling and close lid to help melt the cheese. Once the patties are cooked to desired temperature and the cheese is melted, remove from grill and set aside on a plate to rest.

If necessary, clean grill before next step.

Step 7

Grill tomato and onion slices over hot grill for 1-2 minutes until lightly charred, or grill marks appear. Remove from grill and set aside.

Step 8

Once all ingredients are fully prepared, build your burger. Spread some secret sauce on the bottom bun, add grilled patty with cheese, 2 slices of cooked bacon, 1 whole slice of grilled onion (removed from skewer), 1-2 slices of tomato, more secret sauce, and top bun.

See our infographic for this recipe for some great tips!