Peanut Butter Bacon Burger

1 . Stage

Mix together ground beef, black pepper, onion powder, garlic powder, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and cayenne pepper in a large bowl until evenly blended. Form into six (4-inch-wide) patties and place on a large plate. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate until slightly firm, about 30 minutes.

2 . Stage

Preheat an outdoor grill for medium-high heat and lightly oil the grate.

3 . Stage

Place bacon in a large skillet over medium-high heat; cook, turning occasionally, until evenly browned, about 10 minutes. Drain bacon on a paper towel-lined plate and set aside.

4 . Stage

Cook patties on the preheated grill until hot and slightly pink in the center, about 4 minutes per side. An instant-read thermometer inserted into the center should read 140 degrees F (60 degrees C) for medium doneness. Sprinkle Cheddar cheese over patties about 1 minute before they are done.

5 . Stage

Mix together peanut butter and maple syrup in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat peanut butter mixture in the microwave until slightly runny, about 25 seconds. Stir until smooth.

6 . Stage

Spread peanut butter mixture over hamburger buns. Place patties, lettuce, tomatoes, and bacon on the bottoms, then cover with top buns.