Smoky BBQ Cheeseburgers

 

 Ingredients (Serves 4)

For the Patties:

• 1½ lbs ground beef (80/20 for juicy burgers)

• 1½ tsp smoked paprika

• 1 tsp garlic powder

• 1 tsp onion powder

• ½ tsp black pepper

• 1 tsp salt

• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce

For the BBQ Sauce:

• ½ cup smoky BBQ sauce (store-bought or homemade)

• 1 tbsp brown sugar

• 1 tsp apple cider vinegar

• ½ tsp chipotle chili powder (optional for heat)

Toppings:

• 4 slices sharp cheddar or smoked gouda cheese

• 1 red onion, sliced into rings

• 4 brioche or potato burger buns

• 1 cup arugula or shredded lettuce

• Pickles (optional)

• Crispy fried onions (optional for crunch)

Optional Add-ons:

• Bacon strips

• Jalapeños

• Tomato slices

🔧 Instructions

1. Mix the Patties
   In a large bowl, combine ground beef, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, pepper, salt, and Worcestershire sauce. Mix gently—don’t overwork the meat. Form into 4 equal patties.

2. Preheat Grill or Skillet
   Heat your grill or cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat. Lightly oil the surface.

3. Grill the Burgers
   Cook patties for 4–5 minutes per side, depending on thickness. During the last 1–2 minutes of cooking, add cheese slices and cover loosely with a lid to melt.

4. Toast the Buns
   While burgers finish, toast buns face-down on the grill or skillet until golden.

5. Make the Smoky BBQ Sauce
   In a small pan or bowl, mix BBQ sauce with brown sugar, vinegar, and chipotle powder. Warm over low heat for 2–3 minutes or microwave for 30 seconds to blend flavors.

6. Assemble Your Burgers

   • Spread BBQ sauce on the bottom bun.

   • Add lettuce or arugula, then place the cheesy patty on top.

   • Layer with red onion, pickles, crispy onions, or any extras you like.

   • Drizzle more BBQ sauce and crown with the top bun.

 Serve With:

• Sweet potato fries

• Grilled corn

• A cold glass of lemonade, iced tea, or beer