Hatch Chile Smash Burgers

Ingredients:

4 Hatch chiles, from 1 large can, chopped

1 large white onion, chopped

Kosher salt for seasoning

4 burger buns

1/2 cup mayo

1 pound ground beef, we’re using Piedmontese Certified beef

2 teaspoons Salt Pepper + Three Chiles, our spice blend from Spiceology

8 ounces Hatch Chile cheese, thinly sliced or grated

Shredded iceberg lettuce, optional for serving

Instructions:

Step 1:

Heat a large pan or griddle over medium high heat.

Add the Hatch chiles and onion, season with kosher salt and cook until the onions are soft about 10 minutes.

Remove from the pan and set aside.

Coat each burger bun side with mayo and lightly toast the buns on the hot pan until golden, about 2 minutes.

Step 2:

Divide the beef into four equal parts and roll them into meatballs.

Season with Salt Pepper + Three Chiles.

Step 3:

Lightly oil the pan and place the burgers on the pan.

Once juices start to pool at the bottom of the burger use a smash burger press or large metal spatula to smash the burger until it is SUPER THIN!

Once you see juices pooling on the meat flip the burger.

Spoon some of the chiles and peppers onto each burger patty and add the cheese.

Cover the burgers and cook for just 1 minute more or until the cheese is melted.

Step 4:

Build the burgers with layer of lettuce on each bun, one burger patty with all its Hatch chiles goodness and another bun for topping.

Nutrition Information:

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use fresh Hatch chiles instead of canned ones?

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Yes, you can use fresh Hatch chiles if they are in season.

Roast and peel them before chopping for the recipe.

Canned chiles are a convenient option when fresh ones aren’t available.

What can I substitute for Hatch Chile cheese?

If you can’t find Hatch Chile cheese, you can use any cheese you prefer, such as cheddar, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack.

The choice of cheese will affect the flavor of your burger.

Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?

You can make a vegetarian version by using plant-based ground meat or a homemade veggie patty instead of beef.

The rest of the ingredients can remain the same for a delicious veggie smash burger.

Can I adjust the spice level of the burger?

Yes, you can adjust the spice level by adding more or fewer Hatch chiles and adjusting the spice blend to your taste.

Be cautious with the spice blend, as it can significantly impact the heat of the burger.

What are some side dishes that go well with Hatch Chile Smash Burgers?

Common sides for burgers include fries, coleslaw, potato salad, or a simple green salad.

You can also serve them with corn on the cob or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

What is the significance of Hatch chiles, and can I use other types of chiles?

Hatch chiles are known for their unique flavor and are often used in Southwestern cuisine.

While you can use other chiles, Hatch chiles have a distinctive taste.

If you use different chiles, it will alter the flavor profile of the burgers.

What is a smash burger, and why is it important to smash the meat thin?

A smash burger is a burger that is made by smashing a meatball onto a hot cooking surface to create a thin patty with a crispy exterior.

Smashing the meat thin allows for quick cooking, caramelization, and a desirable texture.

Can I prepare the Hatch chiles and onions in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the chiles and onions ahead of time to save time during cooking.

Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator until you’re ready to use them.

Are there any alternatives to mayonnaise for toasting the buns?

If you prefer not to use mayo, you can use butter or oil to toast the buns.

Brushing them lightly with either before toasting will achieve a similar golden and crispy result.

Can I make this recipe on an outdoor grill instead of a pan?

Absolutely! You can adapt this recipe for an outdoor grill.

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat and follow the same steps for seasoning and smashing the burgers.

Grill them for about 2-3 minutes per side, then add the chiles and cheese to melt before assembling the burgers.