Tuesday, January 17, 2012

Jalapeno-Cheddar Burgers

  • 1 lb. 80 or 85% ground beef
  • 2 Tbsp. pickled jalapeno peppers, chopped
  • 2 cloves of garlic, minced OR 1/4 tsp. garlic powder
  • 2 Tbsp. Worcestershire sauce
  • 1/4 tsp. salt
  • 1/4 Cup dry bread crumbs AND 2 Tbsp. water (*optional - recommended if you cook your burgers past medium-well)
  • 6 slices of cheddar cheese, divided
  • 4 sturdy hamburger rolls, toasted
Combine in a large bowl: the ground beef, chopped jalapenos, garlic or garlic powder, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and bread crumbs with water (if desired). Mix well with hands. Then divide the meat mixture into 4 equal portions. Take one portion and split it in half. Form a patty, and place a 1/2-slice of cheddar cheese (that's been folded in half) into the center of the patty. Take the other half of the portion, shape into a patty, and place it over the cheese. Pinch the ends of the two patties together, so they make one patty. Repeat this process with the 3 remaining portions.

Cook on a pre-heated outdoor grill over medium heat, until desired doneness. I cooked ours in a skillet on the stovetop, over medium heat, for about 2 - 3 minutes on each side, covering with a lid for 1 minute each side, to help them cook through. The last 30 seconds of cooking, place a slice of cheddar on top of the burger and allow to melt. During this time, toast the buns so they are nice and hot for your burgers. Serve immediately.