The Best Smoked Burger Recipe My Dad Taught Me

5 from 1 vote

This smoked burger recipe is dripping with flavor complete with juicy smoked patties, BBQ sauce and ewey gooey cheddar cheese.

Prep Time15

Cook Time15

Resting Time5

Total Time35

Course: Main Course

Cuisine: American

Keyword: burgers, smoked burger, smoked burger recipe, smoked burgers

Servings: people

Cost: 45

2 pds 80/20 Ground Beef I prefer to use 80/20 fat ratio for a juicy finish
4 slides Cheddar Cheese A thick cheese slice is perfect for adding a creamy, sharp contrast
2 tbsp A thick cheese slice is perfect for adding a creamy, sharp contrast For a kick
1 tbsp black pepper
4 count Hamburger Buns
1 head Lettuce I prefer Ice berg or romaine
1 whole Avocado pitted and sliced
4 slices Bacon

Makes: 6inch round, 1inch height

For the best results, preheat your smoker (or grill) to 225°F
I love using a Traeger smoker for its consistency, but a standard gas or charcoal grill works just as well. Just use indirect heat and add some mesquite wood chips for that signature smoky flavor

In a large bowl, mix ground beef, ideally with a high fat content—I like 80/20. Blend the beef with Worcestershire sauce, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
Gently form the mixture into equal portions, shaping each into a patty. Cover the patties with plastic wrap and let them sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes, ensuring even cooking.

Place the patties on the grill grate, ensuring space between each one for the smoke to circulate.
Let them cook at a lower temperature for 60-90 minutes, depending on the patties' thickness. Check the internal temperature with a thermometer to ensure it reaches your desired doneness. For medium, aim for 145°F, but it’s all about personal preference.

When the patties are about 10°F away from their final temperature, place a slice of cheddar cheese on top of each. Let it melt slowly while the burgers finish cooking. If you want extra char and crispy edges, quickly sear on the grill over high heat for about 1-2 minutes per side.

Load your hamburger buns with the smoky beef patties, melted cheese, and your favorite condiments. I love adding BBQ sauce, bacon, lettuce, and avocado

I prefer beef with an 80/20 fat content ratio versus a 90/10 for a more flavorful and juicy hamburger patty.
When creating your hamburger patty, please don't overwork it. Make a small, round patty with as few kneads as possible to keep it tender.
The absolute best cheese is an "extra sharp cheddar" from Tillamook. Its bold, punchy flavor will transform your hamburger from average to extraordinary.
Be sure to place your lettuce as the first ingredient at the bottom of the hamburger to catch all the smoked patty juices and avoid a soggy bun.

Calories: 1900kcal