Ultra-Crispy Grilled Cheese Burgers: The Ultimate Comfort Food Fusion

Ingredients

• 4 slices sourdough bread
• 4 slices sharp cheddar cheese
• 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• to taste salt
• to taste pepper
• 2 tablespoons butter
• as needed lettuce leaves
• as needed tomato slices
• optional dill pickles
• for serving mustard and ketchup

Instructions

1. In a mixing bowl, combine the ground beef with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Form the mixture into four burger patties, about 1/2 inch thick. Make a small indentation in the center of each patty to help them cook evenly.
2. Preheat your grill or skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, cook the patties for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until they reach your desired doneness. Use a meat thermometer for accuracy: 160°F for medium. In the last minute of cooking, place a slice of cheddar on each patty and cover with a lid to melt the cheese slightly.
3. While the patties are cooking, butter one side of each slice of sourdough bread. In a separate skillet over medium heat, place two slices of butter-side down. Layer each with a slice of cheddar cheese, then top with another slice of sourdough, butter-side up. Cook until golden brown and crispy, about 2-3 minutes per side. Repeat with the other two slices of bread.
4. Once everything is cooked, assemble the burgers! On a grilled cheese slice, place a lettuce leaf, followed by the cheesy burger patty, a slice of tomato, and pickles if desired. Cap with the second slice of grilled cheese.
5. Slice each grilled cheese burger in half to showcase that delightful cheese pull. Serve with mustard and ketchup on the side for dipping.