Ingredients:
For the Patties:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 for juiciness)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 tsp smoked paprika (optional, for extra smokiness)
For Cooking:
- 1-2 tbsp beef tallow
Toppings:
- 4 slices bacon (preferably thick-cut and nitrate-free)
- 4 slices cheddar cheese
- 4 tbsp BBQ sauce (homemade or seed oil-free store-bought)
- Lettuce leaves
- Sliced tomato
- Pickles (optional)
For Serving:
- 4 burger buns (look for ones made without seed oils, or use lettuce wraps as a seed oil-free option)
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare and Cook the Bacon
1. Cook the Bacon:
- In a skillet, add the bacon and cook over medium heat until crispy. Remove and set aside on a paper towel to drain excess fat.
- Pour out any excess bacon grease, or save it for other recipes. Wipe the skillet if needed before cooking the patties.
Step 2: Shape and Season the Patties
1. Prepare the Patties:
- In a bowl, season the ground beef with salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika. Gently mix to combine.
- Divide the mixture into 4 equal portions and shape each into a patty, pressing a slight indent in the center of each one for even cooking.
Step 3: Cook the Burgers in Beef Tallow
1. Heat the Skillet:
- Add 1-2 tbsp of beef tallow to a skillet over medium-high heat until it melts and shimmers.
2. Cook the Patties:
- Place the patties in the skillet and cook for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until they reach your desired doneness.
- When the patties are almost done, place a slice of cheddar cheese on each patty, allowing it to melt for about 1 minute.
Step 4: Assemble the Burgers
1. Prepare the Buns:
- If desired, toast the buns in a dry skillet or under a broiler until golden and warm.
2. Assemble:
- Place a lettuce leaf on the bottom bun, followed by the cooked beef patty with melted cheese.
- Add a slice of crispy bacon, a spoonful of BBQ sauce, and additional toppings like tomato and pickles.
- Top with the bun and serve.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
- Serve your BBQ bacon cheddar burgers hot with your favorite sides, like coleslaw, sweet potato fries, or a side salad.
Tips:
- For a smoky BBQ flavor, use a grill or grill pan instead of a skillet, brushing on BBQ sauce during the last minute of cooking.
- Homemade BBQ sauce without seed oils is a great option if you prefer full control over ingredients.
Enjoy this hearty, seed oil-free BBQ bacon cheddar burger!