Ingredients You’ll Need
- For the patties
- 1 1/2 lbs (680 g) ground beef, 80/20 blend
- 1 tsp kosher salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- For the beer cheese sauce
- 2 tbsp (28 g) unsalted butter
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup (120 ml) lager or amber beer
- 1/2 cup (120 ml) whole milk
- 1 1/2 cups (170 g) sharp cheddar, freshly shredded
- 1/4 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- To assemble
- 6 slices bacon
- 4 burger buns, split
- 1 tbsp butter, for toasting the buns
- Sliced lettuce, tomato, and red onion (optional)
How to Make It
1. Cook the bacon: Lay the bacon strips in a cold skillet and cook over medium heat, flipping occasionally. Cook until deeply crisp, about 8-10 minutes, then drain on paper towels and chop once cool.
2. Build the roux: In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for about 1 minute, until it smells toasty and no longer raw.
3. Whisk in beer and milk: Slowly pour in the beer, whisking constantly to avoid lumps, then whisk in the milk. Simmer gently for 3-4 minutes until the sauce coats the whisk.
4. Melt in the cheese: Remove the pan from direct heat. Stir in the cheddar a handful at a time, letting each addition melt before adding more. Season with smoked paprika, salt and pepper. Keep warm on the lowest heat.
5. Form and sear the patties: Mix the beef with salt, pepper, garlic powder and Worcestershire sauce. Shape into 4 loose patties and sear in a hot skillet for 3-4 minutes per side, until a thermometer reads 160°F (71°C) at the center.
6. Toast the buns and assemble: Toast the split buns cut-side down in the same skillet with a little butter. Stack each patty on a bun with chopped bacon, a generous pour of warm beer cheese sauce, and any optional toppings.
Extra Information
- Cook ground beef patties to an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C), checked with a food thermometer.
- Serve immediately while the sauce is warm and pourable.
Essential Tools
- Large skillet
- Small saucepan
- Box grater
- Food thermometer
- Whisk