BACON CHEESEBURGERS

Bacon Cheeseburgers image

Provided by Martha Stewart

Yield Makes 6

Number Of Ingredients 13

2 tablespoons madras curry powder
2 tablespoons cayenne pepper
Coarse salt and freshly ground black pepper
1 1/2 pounds ground beef brisket
1 1/2 pounds ground beef sirloin
6 slices American cheese
12 slices bacon, preferably applewood-smoked
6 Homemade Buns for Bacon Cheeseburgers, sliced lengthwise
Lettuce, for serving (optional)
Sliced tomato, for serving (optional)
Sliced red onion, for serving (optional)
Pickles, for serving (optional)
Ketchup, for serving (optional)

Steps:

In a small bowl, mix together curry powder, cayenne pepper, and 2 tablespoons salt until well combined; set spice mixture aside.
Preheat a grill: If using a charcoal grill, make a fire in your grill. When the charcoals are completely covered in gray ash, hold your hand about 5 inches above the grill grid; count how many seconds you can comfortably leave it there. When you can hold your hand above the grill for 1 to 2 seconds, you have high heat and are ready to grill. If you are using a gas grill, heat the grill for 15 minutes with the lid closed. Before beginning to cook, make sure the knobs are turned to high.
In a large bowl, using clean hands, mix together brisket and sirloin until well combined; season with salt and pepper. Divide meat equally into 6 balls, and flatten each into a patty about 3/4 inch thick. Sprinkle both sides of each patty with spice mixture, reserving any remaining spice mixture for another use.
Place burger on grill, directly over heat, cooking for about 3 minutes on each side for medium-rare; top burgers with bacon and cover with cheese during the last minute of cooking.
Meanwhile, place bacon on grill and cook until crisp, about 1 minute. Place burgers on the bottom half of each bun and top with 2 slices bacon, lettuce, tomatoes, red onion, and ketchup as desired. Top with remaining bun halves and serve immediately. Serve pickles on the side.