Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 pound bacon
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1/2 cup barbecue sauce
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 8 slices of bread
- 4 tablespoons butter
Special equipment needed:
- Grill or grill pan
- Meat thermometer
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, mix together the ground beef and barbecue sauce until well combined.
3. Lay out a sheet of plastic wrap on a flat surface. Weave the bacon slices together to form a square shape.
4. Spread the ground beef mixture onto the bacon weave, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
5. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the ground beef mixture.
6. Using the plastic wrap, carefully roll the bacon weave into a tight log shape.
7. Place the bacon log onto the grill and cook for 30-40 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F.
8. Remove the bacon log from the grill and let it rest for 5 minutes.
9. Slice the bacon log into 1/2-inch slices.
10. Butter one side of each slice of bread.
11. Place a slice of bread, butter side down, onto a grill pan or griddle.
12. Add a slice of the bacon explosion onto the bread, followed by another slice of bread, butter side up.
13. Grill the sandwich until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted, about 2-3 minutes per side.
14. Repeat with the remaining ingredients to make 4 sandwiches.
Time:
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 30-40 minutes for the bacon explosion, 4-6 minutes for the sandwiches
Temperature:
Grill or grill pan: medium-high heat
Internal temperature of the bacon explosion: 160°F
Serving size:
4 sandwiches
Nutritional information:
Calories per serving: 950
Fat: 70g
Protein: 55g
Carbohydrates: 19g
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 8g
Sodium: 1740mg
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Ground pork or turkey can be substituted for the ground beef.
- Any type of cheese can be used in place of cheddar.
Variations:
- Add sliced tomatoes or avocado to the sandwich for added flavor and nutrition.
- Use different types of barbecue sauce for a different flavor profile.
- Add a fried egg to the sandwich for a breakfast twist.
Tips and tricks:
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the bacon explosion is cooked to the proper internal temperature.
- Let the bacon explosion rest for 5 minutes before slicing to allow the juices to redistribute.
- Use a panini press to make the sandwiches for a crispy exterior.
Storage instructions:
The bacon explosion can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating instructions:
Reheat the bacon explosion in the microwave or oven until heated through.
Presentation ideas:
Serve the sandwiches on a platter with a side of pickles or potato chips.
Garnishes:
Garnish the sandwiches with chopped scallions or parsley for added color and flavor.
Pairings:
Serve the sandwiches with a side of coleslaw or baked beans.
Suggested side dishes:
- Sweet potato fries
- Grilled vegetables
- Macaroni and cheese
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the bacon explosion is not cooked to the proper internal temperature, continue cooking until it reaches 160°F.
- If the cheese is not melted on the sandwich, cover the pan with a lid to trap the heat and melt the cheese.
Food safety advice:
- Always use a meat thermometer to ensure the bacon explosion is cooked to the proper internal temperature.
- Wash your hands and all surfaces that come into contact with raw meat to prevent cross-contamination.
Food history:
The bacon explosion was invented in 2008 by a group of barbecue enthusiasts in Kansas City, Missouri.
Flavor profiles:
Savory, smoky, cheesy, and meaty.
Serving suggestions:
Serve the sandwiches with a cold beer or a glass of iced tea.
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