Blue Jay Burger Recipe

1. Preheat grill or skillet to medium-high. Have a plate ready for cooked patties and bacon, plus paper towels for draining.

2. Gather all ingredients and measured quantities for quick assembly.

3. Brush the cut sides of the brioche buns with melted butter.

4. Toast buns on the grill or skillet until golden and lightly crispy, about 1–2 minutes per side.

5. In a skillet over medium heat, cook bacon until crispy, about 6–8 minutes. Transfer to paper towels to drain excess fat.

6. Divide ground beef into two equal portions and gently shape into patties about 3/4 inch thick. Make a shallow indent in the center of each patty.

7. Season both sides of each patty with salt and pepper. Place a cheddar cheese slice on top of each patty during the last minute of cooking or immediately after flipping to melt.

8. In a small saucepan over low heat, warm the heavy cream until steaming.

9. Whisk in blue cheese crumbles until melted and smooth.

10. Stir in sour cream, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Keep warm but not boiling.

11. In the same pan or on the grill, toss sliced onions with olive oil and a pinch of salt.

12. Cook slowly, stirring occasionally, until deeply caramelized, about 8–10 minutes.

13. Spread a generous spoonful of blue cheese sauce on the bottom bun.

14. Layer lettuce, cheddar-topped beef patty, and crispy bacon.

15. Top with caramelized onions and tomato slices, then crown with the top bun.

16. Serve immediately with extra blue cheese sauce on the side if desired.