B.c.j. Burger Recipe

Form and season patties

Divide the ground beef into 4 equal portions (about 4 oz each). Gently form each portion into a patty about 3⁄4 inch thick and 3–4 inches in diameter, making a shallow indentation in the center of each patty with your thumb to help them cook evenly.

Season both sides of each patty with kosher salt, freshly ground black pepper, and garlic powder. Sprinkle Worcestershire sauce over the top of each patty and gently pat it in so seasoning adheres.

Cook patties

Heat a cast-iron skillet or heavy griddle over medium-high heat until very hot (about 3–4 minutes). Add 1 tablespoon unsalted butter and swirl to melt. Place patties in the skillet (don’t overcrowd; cook in two batches if needed). Cook without moving for 3–4 minutes until a deep brown crust forms. Flip and cook another 2–3 minutes for medium (adjust time ±1 minute for desired doneness).

During the last 1 minute of cooking, top each patty with one slice of sharp cheddar, cover the skillet for 30–60 seconds to melt the cheese, then remove patties and let rest for 2 minutes.

Make the sauce

While patties rest, in a small bowl combine 1/2 cup mayonnaise, 1 teaspoon prepared horseradish, 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard, 1 teaspoon fresh lime juice, and 1/2 teaspoon hot sauce (if using). Stir until smooth.

Fold in finely chopped cooked bacon (1/4 cup), finely shredded sharp cheddar (1/4 cup), and the finely chopped seeded jalapeño. Taste and season with 1/4 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper. Adjust lime or hot sauce to preference. Refrigerate if not using immediately.

Toast buns

Spread 1 tablespoon butter evenly on the cut sides of the buns. In a clean skillet over medium heat, place buns cut-side down and toast 1–2 minutes until golden. Remove and keep warm.

Place a lettuce leaf on the bottom bun, add the cheddar-topped burger patty, place 2 slices of cooked bacon per burger atop the cheese, then spoon 1–2 tablespoons of the B.C.J. sauce over the bacon. Add a slice of tomato and some sliced red onion as desired. Cap with the top bun smeared lightly with additional sauce if you like.

Serve immediately with fries or a salad.