Description
Elevate Your Backyard Grilling with Smoked Cajun Cheese Burgers. These flavor-packed patties blend the bold spices of Cajun cuisine with the irresistible smokiness of the grill.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- 4 slices smoked cheddar, pepper jack, or American cheese
- 4 burger buns
- 1 tablespoon butter or oil for grilling
- Toppings: lettuce, tomato, pickles, red onion slices
- Spicy mayo, remoulade, chipotle aioli, or your favorite sauce
- Optional: jalapeños or hot sauce for extra heat
Instructions
1. In a large bowl, combine the ground beef with Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, and a light sprinkle of salt and pepper. Mix gently to combine, being careful not to overwork the meat. Divide into 4 equal portions and shape into burger patties, pressing a slight indentation in the center of each to help them cook evenly.
2. Preheat your grill to medium-high or heat a cast iron skillet over medium heat. Add a bit of oil or butter to prevent sticking and enhance browning.
3. Place the patties on the grill or skillet and cook for about 4–5 minutes on the first side. Flip the patties and cook another 3–4 minutes on the other side, or until desired doneness is reached. During the last minute of cooking, top each patty with a slice of cheese and cover loosely to help it melt.
4. Lightly butter the buns and toast them on the grill or skillet until golden brown.
5. Spread your choice of spicy mayo or remoulade on the bottom bun. Place the cheesy Cajun patty on top, followed by crisp lettuce, juicy tomato slices, pickles, red onions, and optional jalapeños. Add a few dashes of hot sauce if you like it extra spicy. Cap it with the top bun and press gently.
Notes
Optional Variations:
– For an even heartier burger, make thinner patties and double them up.
– Swap regular cheese for blue cheese crumbles for a sharp contrast to the Cajun spices.
– Use ground chicken or grilled chicken breast instead of beef for a different protein option.
– Satisfy your vegetarian guests with a black bean or lentil patty seasoned with Cajun spices.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 burger
- Calories: 500
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 80mg