Smoky Chipotle Burger with Melted Cheese

Prep Time 15 mins

Cook Time 25 mins

Total Time 40 mins

Cooking Method: Broiling, Grilling

Cuisine: American, Mexican

Courses: Breakfast, Brunch, Dinner, Lunch

Difficulty: Intermediate

Servings: 4

Calories: 650

Description

Experience a taste sensation with our smoky chipotle burger with melted cheese, a burger that masterfully blends smoky chipotle peppers, savory spices, and a generous layer of melted cheddar.

Ingredients

1.5 lbs (680g) of ground beef (80/20 fat ratio)
1/2 teaspoon of salt
1/2 teaspoon of smoked paprika
1/4 teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper
1 teaspoon of garlic powder
1 teaspoon of onion powder
3 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce (finely chopped)
2 tablespoons of adobo sauce (from the chipotle can)
1/4 cup of mayonnaise
1 tablespoon of ketchup
1 teaspoon of honey
1 teaspoon of lime juice
1 clove of garlic
1/4 teaspoon of cumin
4 brioche burger buns (toasted lightly on the grill)
4 slices of sharp cheddar cheese
1 cup of baby arugula or lettuce
4 slices of sliced tomatoes
1/2 cup of thinly sliced red onions
1 cup of avocado slices (Optional)

Cooking Instructions

Prepare the Chipotle Sauce

1
Gather Ingredients
- In a medium bowl, combine 3 chipotle peppers, 2 tablespoons of adobo sauce, 1/4 cup mayonnaise, 1 tablespoon ketchup, 1 teaspoon honey, the juice of one lime, 1 minced garlic clove, and 1/4 teaspoon cumin.
2
Blend or Whisk
- Use a blender or a fork to mix the ingredients until smooth.
- Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning if necessary.
- If you prefer a milder sauce, reduce the number of chipotle peppers.
3
Refrigerate
- Cover the sauce and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

Prepare the Burger Patties

4
Mix the Meat
- In a large bowl, combine 1.5 pounds of ground beef with 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon onion powder, 1/2 teaspoon of chopped paprika, and a generous pinch of salt and black pepper. Mix gently by hand to avoid overworking the meat.
5
Shape the Patties
- Divide the meat into four equal portions (6 oz each).
- Roll each portion gently into a ball and then flatten into a patty about 1 inch thick.
- Create a slight dimple in the center of each patty with your thumb to prevent bulging during cooking. Chill for 10 minutes.
6
Rest the Patties
- Let the patties rest at room temperature for about 10 minutes before cooking.
- This step ensures they cook evenly and stay juicy.

Cooking the Patties

7
Preheat the Grill
- Preheat your grill or skillet to medium-high heat (around 375°F).
- A well-heated grill ensures those lovely sear marks and locks in the burger’s juices.
8
Grill the Patties
- Place the patties on the grill. For medium doneness, cook each side for about 4-5 minutes.
- If you prefer your burger less or more cooked, adjust the time accordingly.
- During the last minute of cooking, place a slice of cheddar cheese on top of each patty, close the grill lid, and allow the cheese to melt perfectly over the meat.
9
Toast the Buns
- While the patties finish cooking, place the burger buns on the grill for about 1-2 minutes until they are lightly toasted.
- This step not only enhances flavor but also adds a delightful crunch.

Assembling the Burger

10
Spread the Chipotle Sauce
- Generously spread your homemade chipotle burger sauce on the bottom half of each toasted bun.
11
Layer the Ingredients
- Place a fresh lettuce leaf on the sauced bun, followed by the juicy patty with melted cheese.
- Add slices of tomato, red onion, and pickles if using.
- For an extra layer of indulgence, top with a few avocado slices (optional).
12
Finishing Touch
- Drizzle a little extra chipotle sauce on top of the assembled burger if you desire more heat and flavor.
- Cap it off with the top half of the bun.

Serving Suggestions

13
Plate Creatively
- Serve your smoky chipotle burgers alongside crispy sweet potato fries or a tangy coleslaw for a complete meal.
- A side of chipotle mayo for dipping can elevate the dining experience.

Nutrition Facts

Servings 4

Serving Size 1

Amount Per Serving
Calories 650kcal

% Daily Value *
Total Fat 40g62%
Saturated Fat 15g75%
Cholesterol 120mg40%
Sodium 900mg38%
Total Carbohydrate 45g15%
Dietary Fiber 4g16%
Sugars 6g
Protein 40g80%

Vitamin A 450 IU
Vitamin C 8 mg
Calcium 250 mg
Iron 3 mg

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Note

While sharp cheddar is a classic, feel free to experiment with pepper jack or a smoky gouda for a unique twist.
Resist the urge to flatten it with a spatula, you’ll lose precious juices.
Add cheddar in the last minute of cooking and tent the burger with foil to melt it evenly.
Brioche’s buttery sweetness contrasts with the smoky heat. Toast it to prevent sogginess.
Gently fold spices into the meat. Over-mixing causes toughness, think of it as coaxing flavors together, not forcing them.
Pair your burger with crispy sweet potato fries tossed in smoked paprika and sea salt or a cool corn salad with cotija cheese, lime, and cilantro.
For drinks, opt for an icy lager or a mango smoothie to tame the heat.

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Read it online: https://tinakitchen.com/recipe/smoky-chipotle-burger-with-melted-cheese/

Chef Tinah

Food and Lifestyle Blogger

Hi, I'm Chef Tina, a full time food blogger and travel enthusiast. My love for cooking started in my grandmother’s kitchen, where I learned that food is more than just a meal; it’s a story. Now, I share delicious and easy recipes to inspire your kitchen adventures.

We hope you enjoy making this recipe.

Happy cooking!