Smoky cheeseburger sits on top of macaroni and cheese, then is covered with caramelized onion, bacon, and chipotle mayo. A great way to turn a cheeseburger into something even more awesome.
2cupsprepared macaroni and cheese, made with smoked Gouda and Tillamook sharp cheddar
8slicesTillamook medium cheddar
2medium onions, sliced
1tablespoonchipotle in adobo, mashed
½cupHellman's mayo
16slicesof crisp bacon, optional
Instructions
Pour about a tablespoon of olive oil in a pan and add the onions. Saute slowly, stirring often, until they are golden brown and very tender.
Set aside.
Mash the chipotle and stir it into the mayo.
Set aside.
Preheat the grill to high.
Mix the liquid smoke into the burger gently, making sure that it is well blended.
Separate the meat into 8 equal portions.
Gently form into a ¾ inch thick patty - be careful not to compact the meat too much. This will make it tough.
Grill for 3 minutes, or until the burger is slightly charred with good grill marks.
Flip and grill for 3 minutes more (for medium rare) or until the patty is just under temperature for desired doneness.
Brush the buns with oil and put them cut side down on the grill.
Add the cheese to the burgers and close the grill cover for one minute to allow the cheese to melt.
Remove buns and cheeseburgers from the grill.
Place ¼ cup of hot macaroni and cheese on the bottom bun.
Put the cheeseburger on top.
Add 2 slices of the crispy bacon if using
Spoon ⅛ of the onions on top of the cheeseburger.
Spread the cut side of the top bun with chipotle mayo and put it on the burger.
Serve with a good, artisan amber ale and pretzels.
Notes
Use shell macaroni for the macaroni and cheese - it stays in the bun better. You can use boxed mac and cheese if you must but it won't be nearly so good.