When autumn rolls around, I love creating cozy twists on classic recipes. This burger came about during one apple-picking weekend when I had way too many apples and a craving for something savory. The combination of tangy blue cheese, crispy bacon, and sweet-tart apple chutney makes this burger absolutely irresistible.

What You’ll Need

For the Apple Chutney:

• 2 Gala or Fuji apples, peeled and chopped
• 1 small yellow onion, diced
• 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons fresh orange juice
• Zest from 1 orange
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg

For the Burgers:

• 32 oz high-quality ground beef (80/20)
• 4 thick-cut bacon slices
• Blue cheese crumbles
• Mayo (homemade or store-bought)
• Red onion slices
• 4 brioche burger buns
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Vegetable oil for cooking

Kitchen Essentials

• Large skillet
• Medium saucepan
• Sharp knife
• Cutting board
• Meat thermometer
• Grater for zesting

Let’s Get Cooking!

1. The Chutney (25 mins)
   • Prep apples and onions
   • Combine all chutney ingredients
   • Simmer until thickened
   • Let cool slightly
2. Bacon Time (10 mins)
   • Cook bacon until crispy
   • Drain on paper towels
   • Save some drippings for burgers
3. The Perfect Patties (15 mins)
   • Form meat into 8 oz patties
   • Make slight thumb indent
   • Season generously
   • Cook to desired doneness
   • Top with blue cheese

Pro Tips

• Don’t overwork the meat
• Room temp beef cooks better
• Let burgers rest
• Toast those buns!
• Layer in this order: bottom bun, mayo, burger with melted blue cheese, bacon, chutney, onion, top bun

Common Questions

“Can I make chutney ahead?” Up to 5 days refrigerated.

“Best beef blend?” 80/20 for juiciest burgers.

“Blue cheese substitute?” Try sharp cheddar or goat cheese.

Perfect Pairings

• Sweet potato fries
• Apple cider
• Autumn ale
• Mixed green salad
• Extra chutney on the side

This burger is my favorite way to welcome fall. It’s got everything – sweet, savory, tangy, and crispy. Plus, that apple chutney is amazing on everything from sandwiches to pork chops.

Pro tip: Make extra chutney – you’ll want it on everything!