The Beast T3 Recipe

Make the patty mix

Combine ground beef and ground pork in a large bowl. Add kosher salt, black pepper, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, and onion powder. Gently fold the mixture until just combined; avoid overworking to keep patties tender.

Portion and shape

Divide the mixture into four equal portions (~12 oz each for a large Beast-style patty). Form each portion into a loose ball, then press into a 3/4-inch thick patty with a slight indentation in the center to prevent doming during cooking.

Preheat and oil

Preheat a cast-iron skillet or griddle over medium-high heat until smoking lightly. Brush the surface with neutral oil.

Cook patties

Place patties on the hot surface. Cook without moving for 3-4 minutes until a deep brown crust forms. Flip once and cook 3 minutes on the second side. During the last 1 minute of cooking, top two patties each with two slices of sharp cheddar and the other two patties with one slice pepper jack and one slice cheddar. Cover with a lid for 30-45 seconds to melt cheese.

While patties rest, whisk together mayonnaise, ketchup, Dijon mustard, chopped pickled jalapeños, smoked paprika, hot sauce, lemon juice, and salt in a small bowl until smooth. Adjust heat and acidity to taste. Chill until ready to assemble.

Cook bacon

In a separate skillet over medium heat, cook bacon strips until crisp, about 6-8 minutes, turning as needed. Drain on paper towels. Keep warm in a low oven (200°F / 95°C) if necessary.

Prepare vegetables

Warm tomato slices briefly in the hot skillet for 10-15 seconds per side if desired, or leave raw. Have sliced red onion, pickles, and lettuce ready.

Assembly planning: You will use two bacon strips per burger, two cheddar slices on two patties and a cheddar + pepper jack combination on the other two patties, as prepared while cooking.

Toast buns

Mix softened butter and sesame seeds. Lightly spread butter mixture on cut sides of brioche buns. Toast buttered sides on the hot skillet or griddle until golden, about 30-60 seconds.

Assemble The Beast T3

Spread a generous tablespoon of Beast Sauce on the bottom bun. Place a lettuce leaf, then a cheesy patty. Add two bacon strips, a few pickle slices, a tomato slice, and a little red onion. For a double-stack Beast T3, place a second cheesy patty on top and repeat bacon and pickles if desired. Spread sauce on top bun and crown the burger. Serve immediately with extra sauce on the side.

Rest and serve: Let assembled burgers sit 1-2 minutes so juices redistribute, then serve hot. Provide napkins — these are hearty, saucy burgers.