Smoky Garlic Cheddar Burgers
Elevate your burger experience with these Smoky Garlic Cheddar Burgers! Inspired on a whimsical night when traditional burgers felt uninspiring, this recipe integrates the robust flavors of finely diced garlic and liquid smoke, delivering a taste reminiscent of outdoor grilling right from your kitchen. Each juicy patty is infused with savory notes, complemented by a generous slice of sharp cheddar cheese, resulting in the perfect balance of flavors. Whether enjoyed in your backyard or at the dining table, these burgers are sure to become a favorite for gatherings or a cozy night in.
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
8
Ingredients
Ingredients
Ground sirloin
2 lbs (none)
Garlic cloves
2-3 (finely diced)
Sea salt
1 teaspoon (none)
Liquid smoke flavoring
4 teaspoons (none)
Soy sauce
2 teaspoons (none)
Fresh ground black pepper
1 teaspoon (none)
Medium onion
1 (diced finely)
Sharp cheddar cheese
to taste (sliced)
Instructions
1
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground sirloin, finely diced garlic, sea salt, liquid smoke flavoring, soy sauce, black pepper, and diced onion.
2
Using your hands, mix the ingredients gently until well combined, being careful not to overwork the meat.
3
Divide the mixture into six equal portions and shape each portion into a patty, ensuring they are slightly larger than your burger buns since they will shrink while cooking.
4
Preheat your grill or frying pan over medium-high heat. Once hot, place the patties on the grill or pan.
5
Cook the patties for about 4-5 minutes on each side for medium doneness, adjusting the time based on your preferred cooking temperature.
6
During the last minute of cooking, add a slice of sharp cheddar cheese on top of each patty, allowing it to melt slightly.
7
Remove the patties from the grill or pan, place them on your choice of buns, and top with your favorite condiments and toppings.
8
Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious smoky garlic burgers!
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Smoky Garlic Cheddar Burgers?
They are savory beef burgers infused with finely diced garlic and liquid smoke, topped with sharp cheddar cheese.
What type of meat is used in this recipe?
The recipe calls for 2 lbs of ground sirloin.
How much garlic should I add?
You should use 2-3 cloves of finely diced garlic.
How do I achieve the smoky flavor without a grill?
The smoky flavor comes from adding 4 teaspoons of liquid smoke flavoring directly into the meat mixture.
What role does soy sauce play in the burgers?
Soy sauce adds a deep, savory umami flavor that complements the beef and smoke.
What kind of cheese is recommended?
Sharp cheddar cheese is recommended for the best flavor balance.
How many patties does this recipe make?
The recipe makes six equal-sized burger patties.
How should I prep the onion?
You should take one medium onion and dice it finely before mixing it with the meat.
What is the best way to mix the burger ingredients?
Mix the ingredients gently with your hands until well combined, being careful not to overwork the meat.
How large should I shape the patties?
Shape them slightly larger than your burger buns because they will shrink during the cooking process.
What heat setting should I use for cooking?
Preheat your grill or frying pan over medium-high heat.
How long should I cook the burgers for medium doneness?
Cook the patties for approximately 4-5 minutes on each side.
When should I add the cheddar cheese?
Add a slice of sharp cheddar cheese during the last minute of cooking to allow it to melt.
Can I cook these in a frying pan?
Yes, these burgers can be cooked in a frying pan or on an outdoor grill.
What kind of salt is used?
The recipe specifies 1 teaspoon of sea salt.
Is fresh pepper better for this recipe?
Yes, using 1 teaspoon of fresh ground black pepper is recommended for the best flavor.
What are the main flavor profiles of this burger?
The main flavors are smoky, garlic-heavy, and savory with a sharp cheese finish.
What toppings should I use?
You can use any of your favorite condiments and burger toppings once the patties are on the buns.
How soon should I serve the burgers?
They should be served immediately after cooking for the best taste and texture.
Is this recipe considered difficult?
No, it is tagged as an easy recipe suitable for a cozy night in or a gathering.
What was the inspiration for this recipe?
It was inspired by a desire to elevate traditional burgers on a night when they felt uninspiring.
Can I use ground chuck instead of sirloin?
While the recipe calls for sirloin, ground chuck can be used as a substitute if you prefer a higher fat content.
Do I need to add egg or breadcrumbs?
No, this recipe relies on the moisture from the liquid smoke, soy sauce, and onions to bind the meat.
How do I prevent the meat from becoming tough?
Avoid overworking the meat while mixing the ingredients to keep the patties tender.
Is liquid smoke necessary?
Liquid smoke is essential for the specific 'smoky' flavor profile mentioned in the recipe name.
Can I prepare the patties in advance?
Yes, you can shape the patties and keep them refrigerated until you are ready to grill.
What kind of onion is best?
A medium yellow or white onion works well when finely diced.
Does this burger have a lot of sodium?
The recipe contains sea salt and soy sauce, which contribute to the sodium content.
Can I make these on a stovetop griddle?
Yes, a stovetop griddle is perfect for achieving a good sear on these patties.
What type of bun works best?
Any burger bun of your choice works, though brioche or sesame seed buns are popular options.