These Sizzling Southwest Burgers are a flavor-packed twist on the classic burger, bringing the bold and vibrant tastes of the Southwest to your table. Infused with a blend of spices, these burgers are juicy and full of zest, topped with creamy avocado, spicy pepper jack cheese, and a kick of chipotle mayo. Perfect for grilling, they offer a delightful balance of heat and freshness, making them an ideal choice for a backyard barbecue or a casual weeknight dinner. Serve them on toasted buns with a side of sweet potato fries for a complete Southwest-inspired meal.
Ingredients:
- For the Burgers:
- 1 lb ground beef (preferably 80/20 blend)
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional for extra heat)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 slices pepper jack cheese
- 1 avocado, sliced
- 4 hamburger buns, toasted
- For the Chipotle Mayo:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tbsp chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, finely chopped
- 1 tsp lime juice
- Salt to taste
- Optional Toppings:
- Sliced red onion
- Sliced jalapeños
- Fresh cilantro leaves
- Tomato slices
- Lettuce
Instructions:
- Prepare the Burgers:
- In a large bowl, combine the ground beef with chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. Mix gently to combine, being careful not to overwork the meat.
- Divide the mixture into four equal portions and shape each into a patty about 1/2-inch thick.
- Cook the Burgers:
- Preheat your grill or a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the burger patties for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until they reach your desired level of doneness.
- During the last minute of cooking, place a slice of pepper jack cheese on each patty to melt.
- Make the Chipotle Mayo:
- In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, chipotle peppers, lime juice, and a pinch of salt. Stir until smooth and well combined.
- Assemble the Burgers:
- Spread a generous amount of chipotle mayo on the bottom half of each toasted bun.
- Place the cooked burger patty on top, followed by slices of avocado and any additional toppings you like.
- Add the top half of the bun and serve immediately.
Enjoy your Sizzling Southwest Burgers with your favorite sides and a refreshing beverage!
