Cowgirl Bbq Recipe

Make and shape patties

Place ground beef in a bowl. Sprinkle kosher salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika over the meat. Gently mix with your hands until just combined — do not overwork. Divide into 4 equal portions and shape into patties about 3/4-inch thick and slightly wider than the buns. Make a shallow dimple in the center of each patty with your thumb to reduce springing while cooking.

Preheat a cast-iron skillet or grill to medium-high heat (about 400°F / 200°C). If using a skillet, add a light brush of oil and let it get hot until shimmering.

Cook patties 3–4 minutes per side for medium (adjust time for desired doneness). With about 1 minute remaining on the second side, place a slice of cheddar cheese on each patty and cover the skillet or close the grill lid briefly to melt. Remove patties to a warm plate and tent with foil.

Boost the BBQ sauce

In a small saucepan or microwave-safe bowl, combine 1/2 cup BBQ sauce, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, and mustard. Warm gently over low heat or microwave in 15-second intervals, stirring, until slightly thickened and cohesive. Keep warm.

Make onion rings

While patties cook, slice the onion into 1/4–1/2-inch rings and separate into rounds. In a shallow bowl whisk the egg and milk. In another bowl mix the flour and cornstarch with a pinch of salt. Dip rings first into the wet mixture, then dredge in the flour mixture until lightly coated. Heat vegetable oil in a medium skillet or deep fryer to 350°F (175°C). Fry onion rings in batches for 2–3 minutes until golden and crisp. Drain on paper towels and keep warm.

Crisp the bacon

Fry or bake the bacon until crisp—about 8–12 minutes in a 400°F (200°C) oven on a sheet tray or 6–8 minutes in a skillet over medium-high heat, turning as needed. Drain on paper towels.

Toast buns: spread softened butter on cut sides of the buns. Place cut-side down on the hot skillet or grill used for patties and toast 1–2 minutes until golden.

Assemble the Cowgirl BBQ burgers: spread a spoonful of the warmed BBQ sauce on the bottom bun, add lettuce, place the cheeseburger patty, top with 1–2 bacon slices, 2–3 onion rings, and pickles. Drizzle a little more BBQ sauce on top if desired. Cap with the top bun.

Serve immediately while hot with extra sauce on the side.