Step 1

Cook the bacon until it is cooked, but not yet crispy. It will finish cooking in the burger patties. Let it cool slightly and then chop it into small pieces.

Step 2

Add all ingredients to a large bowl and use your hands to combine the mixture until the bacon and cheese is evenly dispersed. Do not overmix, though.

Step 3

Evenly divide the ground beef into 4 equal servings and form into patties. Make the patties more thin than thick because they will shrink up some while cooking.

Step 4

I like to cover and refrigerate the patties for about 1 hour, if I have time. (This will help the burgers keep their shape on the grill.)

Step 5

While burgers are in the fridge, you can make the burger sauce: stir mayonnaise together with ketchup, pickle juice, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, smoked paprika, cayenne (if using) and salt and pepper to taste. Place in refrigerator until you're ready to use.

Step 6

Prep your burger toppings: slice tomatoes, tear lettuce, slice the onion, etc.

Step 7

To grill, place each burger onto preheated grill or grill pan. Cook 3 minutes on one side and then flip and cook for another 3 minutes or until burgers register 160 degrees F. If adding cheese slices, do this after the burger has been flipped to the second side and after about 2 minutes. Top each patty with a slice, cover and cook 1 minute.

Step 8

Serve as desired, on toasted buns with lettuce, tomatoes, onions, and burger sauce or other condiments. Enjoy!