Western Bacon Cheeseburger BBQ (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

01 - 8 slices of bacon
02 - 8 frozen onion rings
03 - 1 teaspoon paprika
04 - 1 teaspoon garlic powder
05 - 1 teaspoon kosher salt
06 - 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
07 - 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend)
08 - 4 slices of American cheese
09 - 1/2 cup barbecue sauce
10 - 4 hamburger buns

# Instructions:

01 - Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the bacon until crispy. Alternatively, bake the bacon by placing slices on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and baking at 400°F for 8-10 minutes or until crisp.
02 - Cook the onion rings according to the package instructions and set aside.
03 - In a small bowl, combine paprika, garlic powder, kosher salt, and black pepper.
04 - Divide the ground beef into 4 equal portions and shape into patties, matching the size of the buns. Create a slight indentation in the center of each patty using your thumb.
05 - Sprinkle the prepared spice mix evenly over the patties.
06 - Preheat a grill or skillet to medium-high heat. Cook the patties for 4-5 minutes on one side, flip, and cook for another 2 minutes. Place a slice of cheese on top of each patty and allow it to melt while the patties finish cooking. Use a digital meat thermometer to confirm the internal temperature reaches a safe level. Remove from heat and let patties rest.
07 - Place the hamburger buns on the grill to toast lightly.
08 - Spread 2 tablespoons of barbecue sauce on the bottom halves of the buns. Place two onion rings on top of the sauce, followed by a beef patty, crispy bacon slices, and the top half of the bun.

# Notes:

01 - For added flavor, try using Kinders barbecue sauce or another favorite brand.