Shelly's Recipe

SMOTHERED BURGERS

Category: Burgers

2-1/4 lbs ground chuck
1 tbsp onion flakes
3/4 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
3 slices smoked bacon, chopped
8 oz brown or white button mushrooms, cleaned and sliced
1 tsp all-purpose flour
3/4 cup beer
1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
3 oz (about 6 thin slices) Swiss cheese
3 mini pita bread pockets
Coleslaw (recipe follows)

Heat broiler or grill.

In large bowl, work together ground chuck, onion flakes, salt and pepper until well blended. Shape into 6 equal patties. Broil or grill 4 to 6 inches from heat 5 minutes. Turn over and broil or grill another 5 to 6 minutes or until internal temperature registers 145 degrees F on instant-read thermometer for medium (temperature will increase to 155 degrees F).

Meanwhile, in large skillet, cook chopped bacon over medium-high heat until fat is rendered and bacon is almost crispy, 3 to 4 minutes. Add mushroom slices; cook until softened, about 3 minutes. Sprinkle with flour; cook, stirring, 1 minute. Pour in beer and Worcestershire. Reduce heat to medium; simmer, stirring occasionally, until some of liquid evaporates, 4 to 5 minutes.

While sauce is simmering, top each burger with a slice of cheese. Place under broiler or on grill and cover; melt cheese, about 1 minute. Split each pita in half horizontally (making 6 rounds); toast, if desired.

To serve, place 1 cheeseburger on top of each pita round. Top with 2 to 3 tbsp mushroom-bacon sauce and serve with coleslaw on side. Makes 6 servings.

Coleslaw: In large bowl, stir together until well blended:
16-oz bag coleslaw mix
1/2 cup mayonnaise
2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
1 tbsp sugar
1/2 tsp ground mustard powder.

Refrigerate at least 1/2 hour before serving.