What makes the patties in this recipe different from regular ones?

I use a “smash” technique, pressing thin, seasoned ground beef directly onto a hot surface. This creates a crispy, caramelized crust while keeping the center juicy—a hallmark of classic diner-style recipes.

Can I substitute the bacon or cheese for dietary preferences?

Absolutely! Turkey bacon works for a lighter option, and plant-based alternatives like vegan cheddar or smoked gouda can replace dairy. Always check labels for allergens if needed.

How do I prevent onion rings from getting soggy?

Double-frying beer-battered rings ensures crunch. Let them rest on a wire rack after frying, and avoid stacking them—moisture trapped underneath softens the coating quickly.

Is store-bought sauce okay if I don’t have time to make my own?

Yes, but homemade tangy BBQ sauce adds depth. If using store-bought, mix in a teaspoon of apple cider vinegar or liquid smoke to mimic the recipe’s bold flavor profile.

What’s the best way to reheat leftovers without drying them out?

Wrap patties in foil and warm them in a 300°F oven for 10 minutes. For onion rings, an air fryer at 375°F for 3–4 minutes restores crispiness better than microwaving.

Can I use a different type of bun?

Brioche buns are ideal for their buttery texture, but potato rolls or pretzel buns also hold up well. Toast them lightly to prevent sogginess from the toppings and sauce.

Why is American cheese recommended over other varieties?

Its meltability creates that iconic “cheese pull” effect. Sharp cheddar or pepper jack can work, but they won’t blend as seamlessly into the layered flavors.

How do I balance the richness of four cheeses?

Tangy pickles or a drizzle of spicy mustard cut through the fat. I also recommend pairing the meal with something acidic, like coleslaw or an ice-cold lemonade.

Tasting the Quadruple Cheese BBQ Bacon Smash Burger: My Review

Name: Tasting the Quadruple Cheese BBQ Bacon Smash Burger: My Review
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 lbs 80/20 ground beef; 8 slices thick-cut bacon; 4 brioche hamburger buns; 1 large yellow onion, sliced into rings; 1.5 cups all-purpose flour; ¾ cup cornstarch; 12 oz Samuel Adams Summer Ale; 1 cup American cheese, shredded; ½ cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded; ½ cup pepper jack cheese, shredded; ½ cup cream cheese, softened; ½ cup ketchup; 3 tbsp brown sugar; 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar; 1 tsp smoked paprika; 1 tsp mustard powder; Salt and pepper to taste; Vegetable oil for frying

Description

Ultimate gourmet quadruple cheese BBQ bacon smash burger with beer-battered onion rings, crispy bacon, and homemade tangy BBQ sauce. Perfect for summer grilling and special occasions.

Ingredients

Scale

2 lbs 80/20 ground beef

8 slices thick-cut bacon

4 brioche hamburger buns

1 large yellow onion, sliced into rings

1.5 cups all-purpose flour

¾ cup cornstarch

12 oz Samuel Adams Summer Ale

1 cup American cheese, shredded

½ cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded

½ cup pepper jack cheese, shredded

½ cup cream cheese, softened

½ cup ketchup

3 tbsp brown sugar

2 tbsp apple cider vinegar

1 tsp smoked paprika

1 tsp mustard powder

Salt and pepper to taste

Vegetable oil for frying

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Instructions

1. Form ground beef into 8 two-ounce balls and chill for 20 minutes.

2. Cook bacon slices in cast iron skillet until crispy, set aside.

3. Soak onion rings in ice water for 15 minutes, then drain.

4. Mix flour, cornstarch, salt, and pepper in large bowl.

5. Slowly whisk in Samuel Adams Summer Ale until smooth batter forms.

6. Let batter rest for 10 minutes.

7. Heat oil to 375°F in deep cast iron pot.

8. Dip onion rings in batter and fry for 90 seconds per side until golden.

9. Transfer to wire rack to drain.

10. For sauce: combine ketchup, brown sugar, vinegar, smoked paprika, and mustard powder.

11. Simmer sauce for 20 minutes until thickened.

12. Heat cast iron skillet over high heat.

13. Place beef balls on hot skillet, wait 30 seconds.

14. Press each ball flat with parchment-covered spatula.

15. Season with salt and pepper, cook 2-3 minutes.

16. Flip patties, add cheese varieties on top.

17. Toast bun halves lightly.

18. Spread mayonnaise on bottom bun.

19. Layer: bottom bun, patties with cheese, bacon, onion rings, sauce, top bun.

20. Serve immediately with napkins.

Notes

Store leftover components separately for 3-4 days in refrigerator.

Reheat patties in skillet over medium heat for 7 minutes.

Keep onion rings separate to preserve crispiness.

Double-frying onion rings ensures maximum crunch.

Use thermometer to monitor oil temperature for best results.

Prep Time: 25 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Grilling
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 burger
Calories: 945
Sugar: 12g
Sodium: 1850mg
Fat: 58g
Saturated Fat: 24g
Unsaturated Fat: 34g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 52g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 44g
Cholesterol: 165mg