Tsunami Burger Recipe

In a small bowl combine mayonnaise, ketchup, Dijon mustard, pickle relish, hot sauce, smoked paprika, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Whisk until smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning. Refrigerate while you prepare the rest of the burger to let flavors meld (at least 10 minutes).

Place bacon strips in a cold skillet in a single layer. Turn heat to medium and cook, turning occasionally, until crisp and browned, about 8–10 minutes. Transfer to a paper towel–lined plate to drain. Keep warm.

Slice the tomato into 1/4-inch rounds. Slice the red onion into thin rings. Rinse and pat the iceberg lettuce leaves dry. If using buns with sesame, brush tops lightly with softened butter and sprinkle sesame seeds.

Split the burger buns and spread a thin layer of softened butter on the cut sides.

Divide the ground beef into two equal portions (for 2 burgers). Gently form each portion into a patty about 3/4-inch thick, slightly wider than the bun, and make a shallow dimple in the center with your thumb to prevent doming.

Season both sides of each patty with kosher salt and black pepper. Lightly brush a skillet or grill with vegetable oil and preheat to medium-high until shimmering.

Place the patties on the hot skillet or grill. Cook without moving for 3–4 minutes to develop a crust. Flip and cook the second side 2–3 minutes for medium-rare to medium. In the last 30–60 seconds of cooking, place a cheddar slice on each patty and cover with a lid or tent with foil to melt the cheese.

Remove patties to a resting plate for 2 minutes to redistribute juices.

While patties rest, place buttered cut-side down on the skillet or grill and toast until golden, about 30–60 seconds. Remove and keep warm.

Spread a generous tablespoon of the house sauce on the bottom bun. Place a lettuce leaf on the sauce, then the cheesy beef patty.

Top the patty with two bacon strips, a tomato slice, and a few red onion rings. Add another small dollop of house sauce to the top bun and close the burger.

Repeat assembly for the second burger. Serve immediately.