In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, ketchup, relish, and hot sauce to create the burger sauce. Set aside in the fridge.

Place bacon slices in a cold cast-iron skillet. Turn heat to medium and cook until extra crispy, about 4-5 minutes per side. Remove bacon to a paper towel-lined plate and drain excess grease from the pan.

Increase skillet heat to medium-high. Place the two 4oz portions of ground beef in the pan. Using a sturdy spatula, press down firmly to smash them into flat patties.

Season the patties generously with salt and pepper. Cook undisturbed for 2-3 minutes until a crust forms on the bottom.

Flip the patties and immediately top each with a slice of American cheese. Cook for 1-2 more minutes until cheese is melted and burger is cooked through. Remove from heat.

Slightly warm the honey buns in the microwave for 5-8 seconds, or face-down in a clean dry skillet for 30 seconds over low heat.

Assemble burgers: Spread sauce on the bottom honey buns. Top with the cheeseburger patty, break bacon slices in half and criss-cross over the cheese, drizzle with a little more sauce, and cap with the top honey bun.

Serve immediately while hot, sticky, and gooey.