Epic Cheese Burger with Cheese Pour

Ingredients

• 1.5 lb Ground beef (80/20 lean-to-fat ratio) (Divided into 4 equal patties; keep cold until shaping)
• 12 slices Bacon strips (Will be cooked until crisp; trim excess fat)
• 2 lb Cheddar cheese (Shredded; provides sharp flavor in the cheese pour)
• 2 lb Mozzarella cheese (Shredded; adds stretch and meltiness)
• 8 oz Cream cheese (Softened; blended into the cheese sauce for silkiness)
• 2 tbsp Unsalted butter (Melted into the cheese sauce)
• 1 tsp Salt (Season the beef patty)
• 1 tsp Black pepper (Season the beef patty)
• 0.5 tsp Garlic powder (Season the beef patty)
• 4 pieces Burger buns (Large, sturdy buns; toasted lightly before assembly)
• 4 pieces Lettuce leaves (Crisp leaf for crunch)
• 4 slices Tomato slices (Fresh, ripe)
• 4 pieces Pickle spears (Optional tangy bite)

Instructions

1. Prepare the beef patty mixture

   In a mixing bowl, combine ground beef, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. Gently mix with hands until just combined; avoid over‑working.

   Time: PT5M

2. Form patties

   Divide the meat into 4 equal portions (about 6 oz each) and shape into patties slightly larger than the buns. Press a shallow dimple in the center to prevent puffing.

   Time: PT5M

3. Pre‑cook patties in the oven

   Place patties on a lined baking sheet and bake in a pre‑heated oven at 375°F for 12 minutes, flipping once halfway.

   Time: PT12M

   Temperature: 375°F

4. Cook bacon

   While patties finish, lay bacon strips on a separate baking sheet and bake alongside at 400°F for 10 minutes, or until crisp. Remove and set on paper towels to drain.

   Time: PT10M

   Temperature: 400°F

5. Grill patties for char

   Pre‑heat the grill to medium‑high (about 450°F). Transfer the pre‑cooked patties to the grill and sear each side for 2 minutes to develop a charred crust.

   Time: PT4M

   Temperature: 450°F

6. Prepare the cheese sauce (cheese pour)

   In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add shredded cheddar, shredded mozzarella, cream cheese, and a splash of water (about ¼ cup). Whisk continuously until smooth and glossy, about 5 minutes.

   Time: PT5M

   Temperature: Medium heat

7. Toast buns

   Split the burger buns and lightly toast cut sides on the grill for 30 seconds until golden.

   Time: PT1M

8. Assemble the burgers

   On each bottom bun, layer lettuce, tomato, pickle, a grilled patty, and three strips of crispy bacon. Top with the other bun half.

   Time: PT3M

9. Epic cheese pour

   Using a ladle, slowly drape the hot cheese sauce over each assembled burger, allowing it to cascade over the sides and soak into the bun. Serve immediately.

   Time: PT2M

Nutrition Facts

Calories

1200

Protein

60 g

Carbohydrates

50 g

Fat

80 g

Fiber

2 g