Father's Day has no single national dish the way Thanksgiving has turkey. What Dad wants for dinner depends largely on where he lives.
According to restaurant transaction data from Toast, steak orders jump 66 percent on Father's Day compared to a typical June Sunday. In Texas and Oklahoma, that likely means brisket. In the Carolinas, it's slow-smoked pork. Along the New England coast, lobster and clams hold their own. In Louisiana, shrimp and crawfish make a strong case.
Father's Day is also the third busiest restaurant day of the year, behind only Mother's Day and Valentine's Day, more than 50 million Americans dine out. But many families choose to cook at home, and for backyard grilling, one dish crosses every regional line: the bacon cheeseburger. It ranked among the most popular Father's Day foods nationwide, and it's hard to argue with.
Here is a simple version that delivers every time.
Classic Bacon
Cheeseburger
1' lbs ground beef (80/20)
4 strips thick-cut bacon
4 slices sharp cheddar
Salt, black pepper
4 sturdy buns, toasted
Form beef into four patties about, inch thick. Press a small dimple in the center of each, this keeps them from puffing up on the grill. Season generously with salt and pepper just before cooking. Grill over high heat, 3-4 minutes per side for medium. Add cheese in the last minute. Cook bacon separately until crisp.
Add your favorite toppings and a kiss and hug for Dad!