1. Heat a large, heavy-bottomed skillet (such as a cast iron) over medium heat. Add the bacon and cook, turning occasionally, until it is done to your liking (this should take about 8-15 minutes depending on the thickness of your bacon and how crisp you like it). Place the bacon on a paper towel-lined plate to drain.

2. While the bacon cooks, mix the ground beef with the garlic, onion, and salt. Form into four patties about ½-¾-inch thick. Season both sides of each patty with the black pepper. Set aside.

3. Once the bacon has been removed from the pan, split the buns open and liberally brush each cut side with bacon grease. Put buns back together and set aside.

4. Drain all but a couple of teaspoons of the bacon grease from the skillet and return the skillet to the burner. Turn heat to medium (or just below if your stove tends to run hot) and place the prepared burgers in the pan. Cook undisturbed for about 4 minutes. Carefully flip each burger and top each with two slices of cheese. Cook for another 4-6 minutes, or until the burgers are just cooked through. Transfer the cooked burgers to a plate and top each with 1½ strips of bacon. 

5. Toast each bun half, cut side down, in the hot skillet for 2-3 minutes or until lightly golden and crisp.

6. To serve, place one burger on each bun or lettuce leaf and serve with desired toppings.