These Smash Burgers are a game changer with their crispy, flavorful patties and rich, smoky serrano and blue cheese butter. Each bite is packed with layers of bold, savory flavors that complement the perfectly seared beef. For an added twist, the charred serrano peppers provide a smoky kick that elevates this burger to the next level. Whether you’re grilling up a batch for a weekend cookout or craving a hearty dinner, this burger is sure to impress. The combination of spice, creaminess, and beefy goodness is irresistible!
Full recipe:
Ingredients:
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1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend)
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4 hamburger buns
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4 slices blue cheese
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2 serrano peppers
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1 tablespoon butter
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1 tablespoon olive oil
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1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
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1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
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1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
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Salt and pepper to taste
Directions:
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Preheat a cast iron skillet or griddle over high heat.
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While the skillet is heating, slice the serrano peppers in half and remove the seeds. Char the peppers by placing them directly on the heat, turning occasionally, until the skins are blistered and blackened. Remove them from the skillet and let them cool.
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Form the ground beef into 4 patties. Season each with salt, pepper, garlic powder, Worcestershire sauce, and Dijon mustard.
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Once the skillet is hot, place the beef patties on it. Using a spatula or burger press, smash the patties down as thin as possible. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until crispy on the outside and cooked to your desired doneness.
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While the burgers cook, melt the butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Chop the charred serrano peppers and add them to the butter. Stir to combine and heat through for 1-2 minutes.
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Place a slice of blue cheese on each patty, allowing it to melt as the burger finishes cooking.
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Toast the hamburger buns in the skillet until golden brown.
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Assemble the burgers by placing each patty with melted blue cheese on a bun and spooning the charred serrano blue cheese butter on top. Serve immediately.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 25 minutes
Kcal: 550 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
Smash Burgers with Charred Serrano Blue Cheese Butter: A Perfectly Juicy and Flavorful Burger Experience
When it comes to burgers, few things can compare to the delicious, crispy edges of a well-made smash burger. But what if you could elevate that burger with a spicy twist and a creamy, cheesy topping? Enter Smash Burgers with Charred Serrano Blue Cheese Butter. This recipe offers everything you crave in a burger – juicy beef patties, a smoky heat from charred serrano peppers, and a decadent, creamy blue cheese butter that brings everything together in perfect harmony.
What Makes Smash Burgers Different?
Smash burgers are a popular choice among burger lovers for one simple reason: the technique of smashing the patty onto the hot grill or skillet. This method allows the burger to develop crispy, caramelized edges while keeping the inside tender and juicy. The high heat of the pan helps the beef to sear quickly, which locks in the moisture and juices, making every bite burst with flavor. The result is a crispy, flavorful exterior with a juicy, tender interior that sets it apart from a regular, thick burger patty.
The Charred Serrano Pepper Twist
While a classic smash burger is already packed with flavor, the addition of charred serrano peppers takes this recipe to the next level. Serrano peppers have a bright, slightly tangy flavor with a good amount of heat, making them the perfect choice for this recipe. By charring the peppers, their natural sugars caramelize, adding a smokiness that pairs perfectly with the rich, creamy blue cheese butter. This balance of spicy, smoky, and creamy flavors is what makes the burger truly unforgettable.
Why Blue Cheese Butter?
Blue cheese is an incredibly bold and flavorful cheese that adds a creamy richness to any dish. In this recipe, it melts into a luxurious butter, creating a smooth, velvety sauce that coats the smash burger and infuses it with flavor. The saltiness and tang of the blue cheese complement the savory beef patty, while the rich butter brings everything together with a silky finish. Whether you’re a blue cheese lover or just looking for a decadent twist, this blue cheese butter is the star of the show.
Health Benefits of the Ingredients
While burgers are typically seen as indulgent, this recipe uses simple, fresh ingredients that provide some nutritional benefits, too.
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Beef (80/20 blend): Beef is a good source of protein, essential vitamins, and minerals like iron, zinc, and B12. Choosing grass-fed beef can increase the levels of healthy omega-3 fatty acids and make the burger even more nutritious.
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Serrano Peppers: Peppers are a great source of vitamins A and C, as well as antioxidants. The capsaicin in peppers has been shown to boost metabolism and provide anti-inflammatory benefits.
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Blue Cheese: While blue cheese is a high-fat cheese, it’s also rich in calcium, protein, and vitamins A and B12. The presence of probiotics in blue cheese can also aid in gut health.
Incorporating these ingredients into a burger adds flavor and a dose of nutritional value, making this indulgent meal just a little bit healthier.
The Perfect Burger for Any Occasion
This smash burger recipe is versatile enough for casual weeknight dinners, weekend barbecues, or even a special dinner party. The combination of the crispy, juicy beef patty and the rich, smoky, creamy toppings makes it perfect for anyone who enjoys a gourmet twist on a classic dish. You can serve it with classic sides like crispy fries, a refreshing salad, or roasted vegetables. Whether you’re grilling outside or cooking indoors, this recipe works beautifully on a cast iron skillet or a griddle pan.
How to Customize Your Smash Burger
One of the best things about making smash burgers is the ability to customize them to your taste. While the charred serrano blue cheese butter combo is truly mouthwatering, you can experiment with different toppings, cheeses, and condiments. For example, swap out the blue cheese for cheddar or pepper jack for a different flavor profile, or add pickled jalapeños for an extra layer of heat.
Additionally, you can try using other types of beef, such as a leaner 90/10 blend or even a mixture of beef and pork for a unique twist. For a more substantial meal, serve the burgers on toasted brioche buns or lettuce wraps for a low-carb option. The possibilities are endless, and the fun of making smash burgers is trying new combinations of flavors that suit your preferences.
Tips for Perfect Smash Burgers Every Time
To ensure that your smash burgers turn out perfectly every time, here are a few tips to follow:
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Use High Heat: Make sure your skillet or griddle is preheated to high heat before placing the patties on it. The intense heat is key to achieving that crispy, caramelized exterior.
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Don’t Overwork the Meat: When forming your patties, don’t overwork the meat. Lightly shape them into rough balls and season with salt and pepper just before cooking. Overworking the meat can lead to tough, dry burgers.
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Smash Quickly and Firmly: Once the patties hit the pan, use a spatula or burger press to smash them down firmly but quickly. This allows the edges to crisp up while keeping the center juicy.
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Top the Burger with Cheese Early: When cooking the burgers, add the blue cheese slice to the patty just before it’s done cooking. This gives it time to melt and create that creamy layer of cheese.
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Toast the Buns: Toast your hamburger buns to add texture and flavor. This simple step prevents the buns from becoming soggy and enhances the overall burger experience.
Conclusion
Smash Burgers with Charred Serrano Blue Cheese Butter is a flavor-packed burger recipe that’s perfect for anyone looking to elevate their burger game. The combination of the crispy smash burger patty, smoky charred serrano peppers, and rich, creamy blue cheese butter is simply irresistible. Not only does it provide a decadent and indulgent meal, but it also incorporates fresh, flavorful ingredients that provide nutritional benefits. Whether you’re hosting a BBQ or making a quick weeknight dinner, this recipe is sure to impress your family and friends. Give it a try, and enjoy a gourmet burger experience that’s out of this world!
