Description
A gourmet twist on the classic burger featuring sweet caramel, crisp apples, smoky bacon, and melted cheddar cheese. Crafted for discerning home chefs seeking restaurant-quality results with the perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors in every bite.
Ingredients
1 lb ground beef
4 hamburger buns
4 slices cheddar cheese
1 apple, sliced (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp recommended)
4 slices bacon
1/2 cup caramel sauce
Salt and pepper to taste
Optional: fresh arugula, caramelized onions
Instructions
1. Cook bacon in a pan over medium heat until crispy (about 8-10 minutes). Remove and set aside on paper towels.
2. Divide ground beef into 4 equal portions and form into patties. Season both sides generously with salt and pepper.
3. Heat a grill or skillet over medium-high heat. Cook patties for 4-5 minutes per side for medium doneness, or until desired temperature is reached.
4. While patties are cooking, toast hamburger buns on the grill or in a separate pan until golden brown.
5. During the last minute of cooking, place a slice of cheddar cheese on each patty and allow to melt.
6. Assemble burgers: Place cooked patty with melted cheese on bottom bun.
7. Layer with fresh apple slices (3-4 slices per burger).
8. Add 2 strips of crispy bacon per burger.
9. Drizzle generously with caramel sauce (about 2 tablespoons per burger).
10. Optional: Add fresh arugula or caramelized onions for extra flavor.
11. Top with bun and serve immediately while hot.
Notes
CHEF’S TIPS: Use a meat thermometer to ensure patties reach 160°F internal temperature. Granny Smith apples provide tartness that balances the caramel sweetness perfectly. Toast buns with butter for extra flavor. Make your own caramel sauce for premium results, or use high-quality store-bought.
STORAGE: Best enjoyed fresh. Patties can be prepped ahead and refrigerated for up to 24 hours before cooking.
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- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 15
- Category: Elegant Entrees
- Method: Grilling, Pan-Frying
- Cuisine: American Gourmet
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1
- Calories: 650
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 980mg
- Fat: 38g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 20g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 125mg