Backyard Burger Bliss

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### 🧑‍🍳 Ingredients You’ll Need (for 4 burgers):

#### For the Patties:
– 1.5 lbs ground beef (80/20 blend is best for juicy burgers)
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp onion powder
– Optional: 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce for depth

#### Toppings (choose your faves!):
– Sliced cheddar, American, or pepper jack cheese
– Lettuce, tomato, red onion, and pickles
– Crispy bacon or avocado slices
– Grilled mushrooms or caramelized onions
– BBQ sauce, mayo, ketchup, mustard, or special sauce

#### Buns:
– 4 brioche, sesame seed, or potato buns—lightly toasted

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### 🔥 How to Make Backyard Burger Bliss:

**1. Form the Patties**
Gently mix the beef and seasonings—don’t overwork it! Divide into 4 equal portions and shape into patties slightly larger than your buns. Press a small dent in the center to prevent puffing.

**2. Fire Up the Grill (or Skillet)**
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat or heat a cast-iron pan on the stove. Lightly oil the grates or pan.

**3. Cook the Burgers**
Grill patties for 4–5 minutes per side for medium, or longer if you prefer them well done. Add cheese in the last minute of cooking and cover to melt.

**4. Toast the Buns**
Place buns on the grill (cut side down) for about 30 seconds until golden.

**5. Build Your Bliss**
Layer your favorite toppings, stack that patty high, and serve immediately.

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### 🍟 Perfect Pairings

Serve your Backyard Burger Bliss with:
– Classic fries or sweet potato wedges
– Grilled corn on the cob
– A fresh summer salad or slaw
– Iced tea, lemonade, or a chilled beer

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### 💡 Pro Tips

– **Juicier patties?** Keep the meat cold until it hits the heat.
– **Customize it:** Add chopped jalapeños, blue cheese crumbles, or a smoky rub to the patty mix.
– **Make it vegetarian:** Swap in a grilled portobello or plant-based patty.
– **Feeding a crowd?** Prep toppings buffet-style and let everyone build their own masterpiece.

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## 🏡 Final Bite

Backyard Burger Bliss is more than just a recipe—it’s a celebration of summer, flavor, and the simple joy of a great burger. Whether you’re cooking for two or twenty, these burgers bring people together with every delicious bite.

So fire up that grill, grab your favorite fixings, and get ready to experience **burger bliss at its best.**

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Want a printable burger bar checklist, custom sauce recipes, or ideas for themed burger nights? Just say the word!