Day 78: Apple Bacon Burger

This unusual sounding burger was actually quite delicious! I'm so glad I overcame my reticence and tried something new.  I saw this in an email from Better Homes and Gardens and the photo was just so tantalizing, I couldn't resist.  

A few changes for next time: 

• Instead of an even mixture of Italian sausage and ground beef, I'd go with a little more beef and a little less sausage.  The sausage is GREAT with the apple pieces, though.  Those flavors married very well.
• I used little whole wheat buns because that's what I had.  The Kaiser rolls in the original look so much better, and this was a big burger that needed a big bun.
• It's a crime not to add cheese to a burger in my opinion, so I used American this time.  Next time, I'd elevate it with a slice of Swiss or even Gouda.  It needed a strong flavor to stand up to the sausage and bacon.
• I always love purple onion on a burger, and this one was missing it.  I'd probably chop it and mix it into the meat with the apple pieces.  Such yummy texture!
• The sauce was a little heavy on the mayo side for my hubby.  Next time I'll use more mustard and less mayo (but I thought it was OK)

Here's the recipe from Better Homes and Gardens before my adaptations. 

Little burger, but big on taste!

6 slices bacon

1/2 pound bulk Italian sausage

1/2 pound ground beef

2 small green apples

2 tablespoons of mayonnaise

1 tablespoon Dijon-style mustard

1 tablespoon honey

4 Kaiser rolls, split and toasted

Cook bacon over med-high heat until crisp.  Drain on paper towels.

Core and finely chop one of the apples.  Mix in a bowl with the meat.  Shape into 4 equal patties.  Grill over medium heat 4-5 minutes per side or until no pink remains.  Meanwhile, combine mayo, mustard and honey in a small bowl and slice remaining apple.  

Layer apple slices and patties on bun bottom and top with bacon.  Spread a generous amount of sauce on the top bun and enjoy!

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