Sweet & Savory Cola-Glazed Burgers
Indulge in a unique twist on traditional hamburgers with these Sweet & Savory Cola-Glazed Burgers. The combination of cola, French dressing, and Parmesan cheese creates a flavorful profile that enhances the juicy beef patties. Perfect for summer barbecues or a quick weeknight dinner, these burgers are sure to impress your family and friends. Serve them hot on soft hamburger buns, and enjoy a delightful blend of sweetness and tang with every bite.
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
8
Ingredients
Ingredients
Egg
1 (Beaten)
Cola
1/2 cup (Divided (1/4 cup for the mixture and 1/4 cup for basting))
Crushed Saltines
1/2 cup (Crushed)
French Dressing
6 tablespoons (Divided (2 tablespoons for the mixture and 4 tablespoons for basting))
Grated Parmesan Cheese
2 tablespoons (Grated)
Salt
1/4 teaspoon (To taste)
Ground Beef
1 1/2 lbs (Ground)
Hamburger Buns
6 (Soft, for serving)
Instructions
1
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the egg, 1/4 cup of cola, crushed saltines, 2 tablespoons of French dressing, grated Parmesan cheese, and salt until well combined.
2
Add the ground beef to the mixture and gently mix until all ingredients are evenly incorporated. Be careful not to overwork the meat.
3
Shape the mixture into six evenly sized patties, ensuring they are slightly thicker in the center for even cooking.
4
In a separate small bowl, mix the remaining 1/4 cup of cola with the remaining 4 tablespoons of French dressing to create a basting sauce.
5
Preheat your grill over medium heat. Once heated, place the patties on the grill and cook uncovered for about 3 minutes on one side.
6
Flip the patties and baste with the cola mixture. Grill for an additional 8-10 minutes, basting and turning occasionally, until the patties are cooked through and juices run clear.
7
Remove from the grill and let rest for a minute before serving on hamburger buns. Enjoy your unique and delicious cola-infused burgers!
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Sweet & Savory Cola-Glazed Burgers?
These are beef patties seasoned with a mixture of egg, saltines, and Parmesan, then grilled and basted with a unique cola and French dressing glaze.
How many burgers does this recipe make?
The recipe is designed to make six evenly sized burger patties.
What kind of ground beef is recommended?
Standard ground beef, such as an 80/20 lean-to-fat ratio, is ideal for keeping the burgers juicy and flavorful.
Can I use any brand of cola?
Yes, any standard cola brand will work for both the meat mixture and the basting sauce.
What is the purpose of the egg in the recipe?
The egg acts as a binder, helping to hold the ground beef and crushed saltines together so the patties don't fall apart on the grill.
Can I substitute the crushed saltines?
Yes, you can use breadcrumbs or crushed buttery crackers like Ritz as a substitute for saltines.
What does French dressing add to the burgers?
French dressing adds a tangy sweetness and extra moisture to both the patty mixture and the external glaze.
Can I use diet cola instead of regular?
While you can use diet cola, regular cola is preferred because the sugar content helps create a better caramelized glaze when basting.
How long should I grill the burgers?
Grill for 3 minutes on the first side, then flip and grill for an additional 8-10 minutes while basting.
What temperature should the grill be?
Preheat and maintain your grill at a medium heat setting for even cooking.
Why should I not overwork the meat?
Overworking ground beef can lead to a tough, dense texture; mixing just until incorporated ensures a tender burger.
How do I make the basting sauce?
The basting sauce is made by mixing 1/4 cup of cola with 4 tablespoons of French dressing.
When do I apply the glaze?
Apply the cola and dressing glaze after you flip the burgers, and continue basting occasionally until they are finished.
What is the role of Parmesan cheese in this recipe?
Parmesan cheese provides a savory, salty depth that balances the sweetness of the cola and dressing.
Can these burgers be cooked on a stovetop?
Yes, you can cook these in a skillet or grill pan over medium heat if an outdoor grill is unavailable.
How do I know when the patties are done?
The burgers are done when the juices run clear and the internal temperature reaches 160 degrees Fahrenheit.
Should I let the burgers rest?
Yes, letting the burgers rest for about a minute after grilling allows the juices to redistribute for a better bite.
Are these burgers kid-friendly?
Yes, the sweet and savory profile is very popular with children and makes for a great family meal.
Can I prepare the patties in advance?
Yes, you can shape the patties ahead of time and keep them refrigerated until you are ready to grill.
Can I freeze the raw patties?
Yes, you can freeze the prepared patties with parchment paper between them for later use.
What type of buns should I use?
Soft hamburger buns are recommended to complement the juicy texture of the cola-glazed patties.
Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes, ground turkey is a viable substitute, though the flavor profile will be leaner.
Is this recipe easy for beginners?
Yes, with only 8 ingredients and simple instructions, it is an easy recipe for any skill level.
How should I store leftover burgers?
Store leftover cooked burgers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Can I add other toppings?
Absolutely! Lettuce, onions, pickles, and tomatoes all pair well with the sweet and savory glaze.
Why is some cola mixed into the meat?
Mixing a small amount of cola into the meat helps tenderize the beef and adds moisture from the inside out.
Does the burger taste like soda?
It doesn't taste like soda specifically; the cola reduces into a sweet, rich caramel-like flavor that enhances the beef.
Can I use a charcoal grill?
Yes, a charcoal grill will add a nice smoky element that pairs perfectly with the cola glaze.
How thick should the patties be?
Shape them evenly, but leave the center slightly thicker to prevent the burgers from bulging in the middle as they cook.
What side dishes go well with these burgers?
These burgers pair perfectly with potato salad, coleslaw, corn on the cob, or French fries.