Duke's Jr Blue Cheese Bacon Burger Recipe

Form and season patties

Divide the ground beef into two equal portions (for 2 burgers). Gently form each portion into a 3/4"–1" thick patty slightly larger than the bun. Do not overwork the meat. Press a shallow dimple in the center of each patty with your thumb to help them cook flat. Season both sides evenly with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, then brush or sprinkle 1/2 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce onto each patty (divide the 1 tsp between patties).

Cook patties

Heat a cast-iron skillet or griddle over medium-high heat until very hot. Add 1 tablespoon vegetable oil and swirl to coat. Place the patties on the hot surface (do not overcrowd). Cook for about 3–4 minutes on the first side without moving until a brown crust forms. Flip and cook another 3–4 minutes for medium (adjust time for desired doneness). During the last 1 minute of cooking, spoon 1 tablespoon of the blue cheese spread (or evenly distribute crumbled blue cheese mixed with mayo) onto each patty and allow it to melt slightly. Remove patties to a plate and tent loosely with foil to rest for 3–4 minutes.

Cook bacon

While patties cook, place bacon strips in a cold skillet and turn heat to medium. Cook, turning occasionally, until crisp and browned, about 8–10 minutes depending on thickness. Transfer bacon to a paper-towel-lined plate to drain.

Prepare mayo and veggies

Lightly toss or spread 1 tablespoon Duke's mayonnaise onto the cut side of each bun half (divide evenly). Wash and pat dry lettuce leaves; slice tomato into 1/4" rounds and season lightly with salt and pepper if desired. If using onion, separate into rings.

Assemble with extra blue cheese

If you want extra blue cheese flavor, sprinkle about 1 tablespoon blue cheese crumbles on top of the melted blue cheese on each patty before placing bacon on top.

Toast buns

Spread the softened butter on the cut sides of the buns. Place the buns butter-side down in the hot skillet or on a griddle for about 1 minute or until golden and toasted. Remove from heat.

Assemble burgers

On the bottom bun layer the lettuce, tomato slice(s), and optionally onion rings. Place the rested patty with melted blue cheese on top, then add two slices of crispy bacon per burger. Spread additional Duke's mayonnaise or blue cheese spread on the top bun if desired, and crown the burger. Serve immediately.