Ingredients
Scale
For the Patties:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 for that juicy, flavor-packed bite)
- 2 tablespoons chipotle peppers in adobo sauce (chopped)
- 1 teaspoon adobo sauce (straight from the can)
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (for an extra hit of smokiness)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce (for that umami punch)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 egg (optional, for binding)
- 1/4 cup bread crumbs (optional, for a firmer texture)
For Serving:
- Burger buns (toasted—trust me, it’s a game-changer)
- Cheese slices (pepper jack, cheddar, or whatever makes your heart happy)
- Fresh lettuce, tomato, and onion (because balance is key)
- Chipotle mayo or your favorite spicy sauce
Instructions
- Prepare the Patties: In a bowl, combine ground beef, chopped chipotle peppers, adobo sauce, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Add egg and bread crumbs if using. Mix gently until combined.
- Shape the Patties: Divide mixture into four equal portions and form into burger patties. Press a slight indent in the center of each patty to prevent puffing.
- Chill (Optional): Refrigerate patties for 20 minutes to help them hold together while cooking.
- Cook: Heat a grill or skillet over medium-high heat. Cook patties for 4-5 minutes per side, flipping once. Avoid pressing them down.
- Melt the Cheese: Add a slice of cheese to each patty in the last minute of cooking. Cover to help it melt.
- Assemble the Burgers: Toast burger buns. Layer each bun with lettuce, tomato, onion, a patty, and a dollop of chipotle mayo. Serve immediately.
Notes
- Adjust spice level by reducing or increasing chipotle peppers and adobo sauce.
- Let cooked patties rest for 5 minutes before serving to retain juiciness.
- Serve with grilled corn, sweet potato fries, or spicy coleslaw for a complete meal.
- For a lighter option, use ground turkey and swap buns for lettuce wraps.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: Per Serving
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 22g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 23g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
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