SMOKED GOUDA AND BACON BURGERS

Steps:

• In a large skillet, heat the oil. Add the sliced onion and a pinch of salt, cover and cook, stirring a few times, until the onion is crisp-tender and just turning translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the hot sauce and remove from the heat. Season with salt, if desired.
• Heat a large griddle. Spread the butter on 1 side of each bun and griddle buttered side down over moderate heat until toasted, about 2 minutes. Transfer the toasts to a plate. Add the bacon to the griddle and cook over moderate heat until crisp, about 4 minutes per side; drain on paper towels. Wipe off the griddle.
• Season ground beef with salt and pepper and form ground beef into 4 patties. Cook on the griddle over moderately high heat until medium-rare, about 2 minutes per side. Top each burger with 1/4 cup of smoked Gouda and cook until the cheese melts, 1 minute.
• Set the burgers on the unbuttered sides of 4 buns. Top with the bacon, onion and barbecue sauce. Close the burgers and serve, passing more barbecue sauce.