Description
This Savory Grilled Crack Burgers recipe combines juicy, flavorful beef patties with melted sharp cheddar cheese, caramelized onions, and a tangy homemade burger sauce. Grilled to perfection and served with fresh lettuce and tomato on toasted buns, these burgers offer a classic yet irresistible taste perfect for any BBQ or casual meal.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Burgers
- 1 ½ pounds ground chuck beef (80% lean)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 4 slices sharp cheddar cheese
- 4 hamburger buns
For the Caramelized Onions
- 1 large onion, thinly sliced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
For the Burger Sauce
- 4 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons ketchup
- 2 tablespoons dill pickle relish
- 1 teaspoon hot sauce (optional)
For Serving
- Lettuce leaves
- Tomato slices
Instructions
- Prepare the Meat Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine ground chuck beef with garlic powder, onion powder, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix gently with your hands until just combined, being careful not to overwork the meat.
- Shape the Patties: Divide the mixture into four equal portions and shape each into a patty about ¾ inch thick. Make a slight indentation in the center of each patty with your thumb to prevent puffing up during grilling.
- Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high heat, around 375°F (190°C). Oil the grates well to prevent the patties from sticking.
- Grill the Burgers: Place the patties on the grill and cook for about 4-5 minutes per side or until your desired doneness. During the last minute, place a slice of sharp cheddar cheese on each patty and close the grill lid to let the cheese melt.
- Caramelize the Onions: While the burgers grill, heat olive oil in a small skillet over medium heat. Add thinly sliced onions and sauté, stirring occasionally, until the onions are caramelized and tender, about 10 minutes.
- Make the Burger Sauce: In a small bowl, mix together mayonnaise, ketchup, dill pickle relish, and hot sauce (if using) until well combined.
- Toast the Buns: Lightly toast the hamburger buns on the grill for about 1 minute, until golden brown.
- Assemble the Burgers: Spread the prepared sauce on the bottom half of each toasted bun. Layer with a lettuce leaf, a slice of tomato, the grilled burger patty with melted cheese, and caramelized onions. Top with the bun lid.
- Serve and Enjoy: Serve the assembled burgers immediately to enjoy the full burst of savory and tangy flavors.
Notes
- For juicier burgers, avoid pressing down on the patties while grilling.
- Adjust seasoning and hot sauce in the burger sauce to your heat and flavor preference.
- Make sure to oil the grill grates to prevent sticking and maintain burger integrity.
- Use fresh, quality beef for the best flavor and texture.
- Caramelized onions can be made ahead and refrigerated for up to 3 days.
