Loaded Bacon Cheddar Burger with Crispy Fries

Ingredients:
For the Burger:
1 lb ground beef (80% lean, 20% fat)
Salt and pepper, to taste
4 sesame seed burger buns
4 slices cheddar cheese
8 strips crispy bacon
1-2 fresh jalapeños, thinly sliced
Butter for toasting buns
For the Fries:
2 large potatoes, cut into fries
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
For the Condiments:
Ketchup, for dipping
Instructions:
Prepare the Fries:
Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
Toss the potato fries in olive oil, salt, pepper, and garlic powder (if using).
Spread the fries out in a single layer on a baking sheet.
Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy. Remove from the oven and set aside.
Cook the Burger Patties:
Preheat a grill or skillet over medium-high heat.
Form the ground beef into 4 equal-sized patties. Season both sides with salt and pepper.
Cook the patties for 4-5 minutes per side, or until they reach your desired level of doneness.
In the last minute of cooking, add a slice of cheddar cheese on top of each patty and cover with a lid to melt the cheese.
Toast the Buns:
While the patties are cooking, butter the inside of the sesame seed buns.
Toast the buns on a grill or in a skillet for 1-2 minutes until golden brown.
Assemble the Burger:
Place the cooked burger patties with melted cheese on the bottom half of each toasted bun.
Top with crispy bacon strips and a few slices of jalapeño.
Add the top bun and gently press to hold everything together.
Serve:
Plate the loaded burger on a shiny piece of aluminum foil for a casual presentation.
Serve with crispy fries and a small cup of tangy ketchup for dipping.
Enjoy your mouthwatering burger with a side of fries!




