Bacon Burger Dogs

Directions

1. 1
   Put the bratwursts in a medium pot in a single layer.
2. 2
   Pour in the beer, then add enough water to cover the bratwursts by 1 inch, if necessary.
3. 3
   Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium low.
4. 4
   Simmer until the bratwursts are cooked through, 12 to 14 minutes.
5. 5
   Remove to a plate and allow to cool completely.
6. 6
   Meanwhile, combine the ground beef, Worcestershire sauce, 1/2 teaspoon salt and a few grinds of pepper in a medium bowl.
7. 7
   Gently mix with your hands and divide into 4 equal portions.
8. 8
   Lay out a piece of plastic wrap.
9. 9
   Arrange 4 bacon slices side by side on the plastic to form a rectangle, overlapping them slightly.
10. 10
    Position the bacon rectangle with a short end in front of you.
11. 11
    Press a portion of the beef over the half of the bacon rectangle closest to you.
12. 12
    Place a bratwurst horizontally on top of the beef.
13. 13
    Using the plastic wrap to help, tightly roll the bacon and beef around the bratwurst away from you; remove the plastic wrap.
14. 14
    Secure the bacon with kitchen twine in 3 or 4 spots.
15. 15
    Repeat to wrap the remaining bratwursts.
16. 16
    Place the bacon-wrapped bratwursts seam-side down in a large nonstick skillet over medium heat.
17. 17
    Cook, turning, until the bacon is crisp and the beef is cooked through, about 10 minutes.
18. 18
    Remove to a plate, tent with foil and let rest 10 minutes.
19. 19
    Meanwhile, preheat the broiler.
20. 20
    Drizzle the insides of the buns with olive oil.
21. 21
    Place on a baking sheet and broil until golden brown, about 1 minute.
22. 22
    Use scissors to remove the twine from the bratwursts.
23. 23
    Place on the buns and top with the chopped onion and cheese.
24. 24
    Photograph by Steve Giralt