Remove ground beef from the refrigerator and set on the counter to warm up a bit.
To caramelize the onions
Heat one Tablespoon of oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced onion and cook, stirring occasionally until golden brown…about 5 to 10 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
To make the burgers
Chop the bacon. Mix the ground beef, chopped bacon and seasoning together in a large bowl.
Divide into 6 portions (approximately 5 1/2 ounces each) and shape into patties with a slight indentation in the center.
Place on the grill and cook until they reach desired doneness, about 5 to 8 minutes per side on medium-high heat. Time will vary based on patty thickness and how hot your grill is.
When burgers are almost cooked through, add the cheese slices. Allow cheese to melt then remove the burgers from the grill. Set aside and keep warm.
Brush or spray the sliced burger buns with olive oil and toast on the hot grill.
Alternative Method - Cook your burgers indoors on a cast iron grill.
To assemble the burgers
Spread barbecue sauce on the bottom bun. Top with lettuce and tomato, if using. Then top with cheeseburger patty.
Finally, top of your burgers with bacon slices, caramelized onions and drizzle with barbecue sauce.
Notes
For medium-rare cook to 130 degrees. 140 degrees for medium and 150 degrees for well done. Do not cook your burgers over 160 degrees or they will become dry.
For smokier flavor choose a hickory smoked bacon.
Keto – skip the bun and use sugar-free bacon.
Whole30 & Paleo – skip the bun and cheese, and use sugar-free bacon.
Additional seasoning options – Montreal Steak Seasoning, BBQ Rub, or keep it simple with sea salt and ground black pepper.