Nothing beats the mouthwatering aroma of a sizzling burger fresh off the grill. But have you ever considered taking your burger game to the next level by introducing the tantalizing flavors of smoke? Smoked hamburgers are a true delight for any BBQ enthusiast or food lover.
In this how-to, we’ll guide you through a simple yet scrumptious recipe for making perfectly smoked hamburgers using 85/15 fresh ground beef. Plus, we’ll explore a few ingredient variations, including chorizo and ground pork, to add some exciting twists to your smoked burger experience.
Smoked Hamburger Recipe
Ingredients:
- 1 ½ pounds (680g) 85/15 fresh ground beef
- 2 teaspoon salt
- 2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 4 hamburger buns
- Cheese slices (optional, for topping)
- Lettuce, tomatoes, onions, pickles (optional, for garnish)
If you want to take your burgers to the next level, grind your beef yourself. Head to the store or your local butcher and buy equal parts chuck and sirloin to get the perfect blend of lean to fat. You’ll be blown away at how delicious fresh ground burgers are compared to store bought.
Instructions:
- Prepare the smoker: Preheat your smoker to a temperature of 225°F to 250°F (107°C to 121°C). Use hardwood chunks or chips, such as hickory or oak, to add that smoky goodness to your burgers.
- Form the patties: Divide the seasoned ground beef into four equal portions and shape them into round patties, ensuring they are slightly larger in diameter than the hamburger buns, as they will shrink during cooking.
- Season the ground beef: Using a shaker, evenly season your patties with the salt, pepper and garlic powder. For an added kick, add 1/2 teaspoon of cayenne pepper.
- Smoke the burgers: Place the patties on the smoker grates and close the lid. Let them smoke for approximately 15 to 20 minutes per side or until they reach an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C). The low and slow smoking process infuses the burgers with a delectable smoky flavor while keeping them juicy and tender.
- Sear the burgers: In the last 2-3 minutes of cooking, increase the heat in the smoker or transfer the burgers to a hot grill or cast iron. This searing step adds a delightful crust to the burgers, enhancing both taste and texture.
- Assemble the burgers: Toast the hamburger buns lightly and, if desired, melt a cheese slice on each patty during the last minute of searing. Build your burgers with the garnishes of your choice.
- Enjoy your smoky creation: Serve your smoked hamburgers with a side of coleslaw, potato salad, or sweet potato fries for a truly satisfying meal!
Ingredient Variations and Substitutions
- Chorizo-Infused Burgers: For a spicy and bold twist, replace half of the fresh ground beef with chorizo sausage. Remove the chorizo from its casing and mix it thoroughly with the ground beef and seasonings before forming the patties. The result will be a fusion of rich flavors that will leave your taste buds dancing with joy.
- Ground Pork Burgers: Swap out the beef entirely for ground pork to create a tender and succulent alternative to traditional beef burgers. Season the ground pork with your favorite spices and herbs, and follow the same smoking and searing steps to achieve that signature smoky taste.
- Turkey or Chicken Burgers: Want a leaner option? Utilize ground turkey or chicken instead of beef. While these meats have lower fat content, smoking will still impart a delectable flavor to the burgers, making them an excellent choice for health-conscious burger lovers.
Conclusion
With this simple yet exceptional smoked hamburger recipe and a few creative ingredient variations, you can elevate your grilling prowess and delight your family and friends with a memorable dining experience. Whether you stick with the classic 85/15 fresh ground beef or venture into the world of chorizo or ground pork, your smoked hamburgers are sure to become a star attraction at any barbecue gathering. So, fire up that smoker, gather your ingredients, and get ready to embark on a journey of smoky perfection! Happy grilling!
Note: Always ensure that ground meats, especially poultry, reach a safe internal temperature before consumption to prevent food-borne illnesses. Use a meat thermometer to check the doneness of your burgers.
