The barbecue bacon cheeseburger is usually a guilty pleasure. Here, I’ve combined these favorite flavors in a reasonable-sized burger that’s even more scrumptious because the ingredients are fresh and guilt free. Just don’t cheat when buying the beef—96% lean makes a real difference.

PrintBBQ Bacon CheeseburgerThe barbecue bacon cheeseburger is usually a guilty pleasure. Here, I’ve combined these favorite flavors in a reasonable-sized burger that’s even more scrumptious because the ingredients are fresh and guilt free. Please, though, don’t cheat when buying the beef— 96% lean makes a real difference.Prep Time 20 minutes minutesCook Time 8 minutes minutesServings 1 burgerIngredients4 ounces 96% lean ground beefPinch of salt1 1/2 slices center-cut bacon1 reduced-calorie hamburger bun1/2 ounce light Swiss cheese slivers1-2 tablespoons red onion slivers2 teaspoons barbecue sauceInstructionsPack the beef tightly together with your hands, and then shape it into a 4-inch-diameter patty on a sheet of wax paper. Sprinkle lightly with salt on both sides, and then place in the freezer for 5 minutes (to help the patty keep its shape).Preheat a grill to high.Cut the whole bacon strip in half crosswise. Lay the 3 half strips side by side in a small nonstick skillet over medium heat. Cook, flipping them every couple of minutes, until crispy and well done, 6 to 8 minutes. Transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate to drain.Meanwhile, remove the patty from the freezer and place it on the grill. Cook for 1 to 2 minutes per side for medium rare, or until the desired doneness is reached. Toast the bun halves on an upper grill rack for 30 seconds to 1 minute, watching them carefully. Place the cheese on top of the burger for the last few seconds of cooking so it just begins to melt.Add the patty to the toasted bun bottom. Lay the bacon strips side by side over the top. Place the onion over that. Spread the barbecue sauce evenly over the inside of the top half of the bun. Place the bun top atop the sandwich. Serve immediately.NotesPer burger: 304 calories, 33 g protein, 23 g carbohydrates, 10 g fat, 4 g saturated fat, 75 mg cholesterol, 3 g fiber, 752 mg sodiumRecipe taken from Devin Alexander’s THE MOST DECADENT DIET EVER! Copyright © 2008 by Devin Alexander published by Broadway Books, a division of Random House Inc.Photo Credit: Theresa RaffettoGet the Book