Ultimate Bacon Cheeseburgers

Instructions

1. In small bowl, add porcini mushrooms and enough hot water to cover. Let stand until mushrooms soften, about 15 minutes. Using slotted spoon, transfer mushrooms to cutting board and chop.
2. Off heat, coat grill rack or large grill pan with nonstick spray. Preheat gas grill or grill pan to medium-high, prepare medium-high fire in charcoal grill.
3. Meanwhile, arrange 4 bacon slices in single layer between paper towels. Microwave on High until bacon is partially cooked but still flexible, about 30 seconds. Drain bacon on paper towels. Repeat with remaining 4 bacon slices. Let cool.
4. In large bowl, mix beef, cremini and porcini mushrooms, onion, and 1⁄2 tsp salt and shape into 4 (31⁄2-inch) patties. Season with 1⁄4 tsp each salt and black pepper. Arrange 2 bacon strips crisscross on each patty, tucking ends underneath.
5. Arrange patties, bacon-side down, on grill and cook for 6 minutes. Turn patties over and cook until bacon is crisp and instant-read thermometer inserted horizontally into patties registers 160°F, about 6 minutes more. Sprinkle a scant 1⁄4 cup cheese over each patty. Close lid and continue to cook until melted, about 30 seconds.
6. Sprinkle tomato slices with remaining 1⁄4 tsp salt. Build burgers with roll bottom, 1 patty with bacon and cheese, 1 tomato slice, 1 lettuce leaf, sliced onion (if using), and roll top.
7. Serving size: 1 burger