Typically, when we think of grilling burgers, beef patties, American cheese, and ketchup comes to mind. Sure, this classic combo is great, but there are so many more options than that! From turkey burgers to grilled chicken – topped with various gourmet and specialty cheeses, we’re giving you the perfect opportunity to step outside of your comfort zone. Try these 5 unique combinations to create a restaurant quality meal at home!
Before you do anything, prepare the grill. Turn the heat up to medium-high, but before it gets too hot, grab a stiff bristled wire brush and clear off any residue from the grates. Let the grill pre-heat for 15-20 minutes. When it’s hot and right before you’re ready to cook, take a paper towel that has been soaked in oil (olive or canola) and use tongs to oil the grates. Don’t skip this simple step – it will make a big difference helping your food not to stick!
The Ultimate American Burger
Beef Patty + Cheddar Cheese + BBQ sauce + Red Onion + Bacon
Start this steakhouse inspired favorite by cooking the bacon. For a no-mess method, make it in the oven. Arrange 1lb. of bacon in a single layer on a lined baking sheet and place into a 400° oven for 15-20 minutes. Remove the bacon from the oven and transfer to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any extra grease. Grab your beef patties and head to the grill. For a medium-rare burger, cook for 3 minutes on the first side, flip, and cook for another 4 minutes or until an internal temperature of 160° is reached. When finished, top with cooked bacon, sliced red onion, barbeque sauce and cheddar cheese. Smoked with apple and hardwood, we chose Red Apple cheddar cheese to pair perfectly with the bacon.
The Philly Cheesesteak Burger
Blended Burger Patty + Provolone Cheese + Sautéed Peppers and Onion
For this burger, try the “Trend to Blend.” This method substitutes finely chopped, umami-rich mushrooms for some of the meat in your favorite recipes such as tacos, chilis, and you guessed it – burgers. It’s easy to do and will save on cost and calories! Chop up an 8 oz. container of your favorite mushroom variety to match the consistency of the ground beef. Cook the chopped mushrooms in 1 Tb. of olive oil until they release their juices – about 5 minutes. Incorporate the cooked mushrooms into the ground beef and season with salt and pepper. Form into ¾” thick patties and grill for 3 minutes on the first side, flip, and then grill another 4 minutes. For true Philly flavor, sautéed sliced red pepper, green pepper and yellow onion in olive oil until tender. Place on the burger patty and top with a slice of smoked provolone cheese.
The Grilled Caprese Chicken Sandwich
Chicken Breast + Fresh Mozzarella Cheese + Tomato + Basil + Balsamic Glaze
This one tastes best if you start the night before! Place 1 lb. of chicken breasts or thighs in a plastic bag. Add 4 Tbs. balsamic vinegar, 4 Tbs. olive oil, ½ tsp. salt and ½ tsp. pepper into the bag, tossing to coat. Place in the fridge and let marinate for at least 3, or up to 24 hours. Grill for 5-6 minutes per side, until an internal temperature of 165° is reached. For authentic Italian quality, top the chicken with fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced tomato, basil leaves and drizzle with a balsamic glaze.
The Green Goodness Turkey Burger
Turkey Burger + Gruyere Cheese + Arugula + Pesto
This light and fresh turkey burger will soon become a family favorite. Form and season ground turkey into ¾” thick patties, or use pre-formed ones. Cook for 5 minutes on the first side, flip, and cook for another 5 minutes or until an internal temperature of 165° is reached. Unlike with a traditional beef patty, you don’t have options on how to cook your turkey burger. Well-done is the only way to go, so make sure there is no pink and the burger is completely cooked through when you’re done grilling. Dress this burger up with a heaping spoonful of pesto, a handful of fresh arugula and a hearty slice of Gruyere cheese. You might not be familiar with this funny sounding, hard to pronounce variety, but give it a try! With it’s mild flavor and ability to melt easily, Gruyere is a great cheese to use on burgers.
The Southwestern Black Bean Burger
Black Bean Burger + Pepper Jack Cheese + Guacamole + Corn Salsa
Vegetarians rejoice, we didn’t forget about you in our burger-cooking craze! Start this recipe by making the corn salsa – it tastes better when the flavors have some time to combine. Mix together canned corn, diced red onion, tomato, and minced jalapeno with lime juice and a little salt and pepper. Let chill in the fridge while you cook the burgers. For a patty that can hold up to the high heat of a grill, using a pre-made, frozen patty is your best bet. Grill according to the instructions on the package. For a southwestern twist, top with the previously made corn salsa and guacamole. To make the guacamole, mash 1 avocado and combine with diced tomato, red onion, chopped cilantro, lime juice, salt and pepper. Finally, for a touch of heat, top with a slice of pepper jack cheese.
Have fun trying these tasty new sandwiches and happy grilling!
