Bleu Cheese Burger Recipe

1. Form patties

Divide the ground beef into two equal portions (about 8 oz each). Gently form each portion into a patty about 3/4-inch thick and slightly wider than the bun. Avoid overworking the meat to keep patties tender.

2. Season

Season both sides of each patty with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. If using, brush or sprinkle 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce over the top of each patty and rub lightly.

3. Cook the bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crisp, about 6–8 minutes, turning occasionally. Transfer cooked bacon to a paper towel-lined plate to drain. Keep skillet with bacon fat for optional toasting of buns (or wipe and use separate pan for patties).

4. Heat a cast-iron skillet or grill over medium-high heat. Add 1 tsp neutral oil if pan is dry. When hot, add patties and cook undisturbed for about 3–4 minutes per side for medium (adjust time for desired doneness).

5. During the last 1–2 minutes of cooking, place one Swiss cheese slice on each patty and cover the skillet briefly (or close grill lid) to melt the cheese, about 1 minute. Remove patties and let rest for 2 minutes.

6. While patties finish, halve the hamburger buns. Butter the cut sides with about 1/2 tbsp butter per bun half. Toast cut sides in a skillet (using reserved bacon fat if desired) over medium heat until golden, about 1–2 minutes.

7. Spread mayonnaise evenly on the bottom halves of the toasted buns (about 1½ tbsp total; adjust to taste).

8. On the bottom bun with mayo, place the Swiss-topped beef patty. Sprinkle approximately 2 tablespoons of bleu cheese crumbles onto each patty (total about 1/4 cup per burger). The warmth of the patty will soften the bleu cheese.

9. Top the bleu cheese with two slices of crisp bacon (2 slices per burger).

10. Add 3–4 dill pickle chips on top of the bacon, then a couple of thin red onion rings (about 3–4 slices) and one thick tomato slice per burger.

11. Place the top bun and press down gently. If desired, sprinkle minced fresh parsley over the mayo or cheese for a touch of color.

12. Serve immediately while hot with your choice of side (fries, salad). Provide extra bleu cheese on the side if guests want more.