Name: Beef Chorizo Burger: The Ultimate Flavor Explosion
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4 Burgers
Ingredients: 1.5 lbs Ground Beef (80/20 blend); 0.5 lb Fresh Chorizo Sausage, casings removed; 1 small Onion, finely diced; 2 cloves Garlic, minced; 1 Jalapeño, seeded and finely minced (optional); 1 tbsp Chili Powder; 1 tsp Smoked Paprika; 1/2 tsp Cumin; 1/4 tsp Cayenne Pepper (optional); 1 tbsp Worcestershire Sauce; 1 tbsp Fresh Cilantro, chopped; Salt and Black Pepper to taste; 4 Burger Buns (Brioche or your favorite); 4 slices Pepper Jack Cheese; 1 Avocado, sliced; 1/4 cup Chipotle Mayo (store-bought or homemade); 1/4 cup Pickled Red Onions (recipe follows); Fresh Cilantro sprigs, for garnish (optional); 1 Red Onion, thinly sliced; 1/2 cup White Vinegar; 1/4 cup Water; 2 tbsp Sugar; 1 tsp Salt; 1/2 cup Mayonnaise; 1-2 Chipotle Peppers in Adobo Sauce, finely minced; 1 tbsp Adobo Sauce (from the can of chipotle peppers); 1 tsp Lime Juice; 1/4 tsp Garlic Powder

Beef Chorizo Burger: Prepare to embark on a culinary adventure that will redefine your burger expectations! Forget everything you thought you knew about this classic American staple because we're about to infuse it with the vibrant flavors of Spain and Mexico. Imagine sinking your teeth into a juicy, perfectly cooked patty, bursting with smoky paprika, savory garlic, and just the right amount of spice. This isn't just a burger; it's a fiesta in your mouth!

The beauty of the Beef Chorizo Burger lies in its harmonious blend of cultures. While the burger itself is undeniably American, the addition of chorizo, a spicy pork sausage with roots in the Iberian Peninsula, adds a layer of complexity and depth that is simply irresistible. Chorizo has been a beloved ingredient in Spanish and Mexican cuisine for centuries, prized for its rich, smoky flavor and versatility. It's no wonder it pairs so well with the hearty goodness of ground beef.

People adore this dish for its incredible taste and satisfying texture. The combination of the juicy beef and the slightly crumbly chorizo creates a delightful contrast that keeps you coming back for more. Plus, it's incredibly easy to customize to your liking. Whether you prefer a mild heat or a fiery kick, you can adjust the amount of chorizo and spices to create your perfect burger masterpiece. Get ready to experience a burger that's anything but ordinary!

Ingredients:

For the Beef Chorizo Patties:

1.5 lbs Ground Beef (80/20 blend for flavor and moisture)
0.5 lb Fresh Chorizo Sausage, casings removed
1 small Onion, finely diced
2 cloves Garlic, minced
1 Jalapeño, seeded and finely minced (optional, for extra heat)
1 tbsp Chili Powder
1 tsp Smoked Paprika
1/2 tsp Cumin
1/4 tsp Cayenne Pepper (optional, for extra heat)
1 tbsp Worcestershire Sauce
1 tbsp Fresh Cilantro, chopped
Salt and Black Pepper to taste

For the Burger Assembly:

4 Burger Buns (Brioche or your favorite)
4 slices Pepper Jack Cheese
1 Avocado, sliced
1/4 cup Chipotle Mayo (store-bought or homemade)
1/4 cup Pickled Red Onions (recipe follows)
Fresh Cilantro sprigs, for garnish (optional)

For the Pickled Red Onions:

1 Red Onion, thinly sliced
1/2 cup White Vinegar
1/4 cup Water
2 tbsp Sugar
1 tsp Salt

For the Chipotle Mayo (Optional):

1/2 cup Mayonnaise
1-2 Chipotle Peppers in Adobo Sauce, finely minced (depending on desired heat)
1 tbsp Adobo Sauce (from the can of chipotle peppers)
1 tsp Lime Juice
1/4 tsp Garlic Powder

Preparing the Pickled Red Onions:

I always like to start with the pickled red onions because they taste even better after they've had some time to sit and meld together. Plus, it's a super easy step!

Slice the Red Onion: Thinly slice the red onion. I prefer using a mandoline for even slices, but a sharp knife works just fine.
Combine Pickling Liquid: In a small saucepan, combine the white vinegar, water, sugar, and salt.
Heat and Dissolve: Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, stirring until the sugar and salt are completely dissolved.
Pour over Onions: Place the sliced red onions in a heat-safe jar or bowl. Pour the hot pickling liquid over the onions, making sure they are submerged.
Cool and Refrigerate: Let the onions cool to room temperature, then cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. They'll taste even better after a few hours! These can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Making the Chipotle Mayo (Optional):

If you're feeling fancy (and I always am!), homemade chipotle mayo takes this burger to the next level. It's incredibly simple to whip up.

Mince the Chipotle Peppers: Finely mince the chipotle peppers in adobo sauce. Remember, the more you add, the spicier it will be! Start with one pepper and add more to taste.
Combine Ingredients: In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, minced chipotle peppers, adobo sauce, lime juice, and garlic powder.
Mix Well: Stir everything together until well combined.
Taste and Adjust: Taste the mayo and adjust the seasoning as needed. Add more chipotle pepper for heat, lime juice for tang, or garlic powder for extra flavor.
Refrigerate: Cover and refrigerate the chipotle mayo for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. This will also help it thicken slightly.

Preparing the Beef Chorizo Patties:

Now for the star of the show! The key to a great burger patty is to not overwork the meat. We want them to be tender and juicy, not tough.

Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, gently combine the ground beef, chorizo sausage (casings removed), diced onion, minced garlic, minced jalapeño (if using), chili powder, smoked paprika, cumin, cayenne pepper (if using), Worcestershire sauce, and chopped cilantro.
Season: Season the mixture generously with salt and black pepper. Remember that the chorizo will already be seasoned, so taste as you go.
Gently Mix: Using your hands, gently mix all the ingredients together until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this will result in tough patties.
Form Patties: Divide the mixture into 4 equal portions. Gently form each portion into a patty, about 3/4 inch thick. I like to make a slight indentation in the center of each patty to prevent them from bulging during cooking.
Chill (Optional): For best results, cover the patties and refrigerate them for at least 30 minutes. This will help them hold their shape during cooking.

Cooking the Beef Chorizo Patties:

There are a few ways you can cook these patties – grilling, pan-frying, or even broiling. I personally prefer pan-frying for a nice crust and even cooking.

Prepare Cooking Surface: Heat a large cast-iron skillet or frying pan over medium-high heat. Add a tablespoon of oil (vegetable or canola oil works well).
Sear the Patties: Once the pan is hot, carefully place the patties in the skillet, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Sear the patties for about 3-4 minutes per side, until they are nicely browned and have a good crust.
Cook to Desired Doneness: Reduce the heat to medium and continue cooking the patties for another 3-5 minutes per side, or until they reach your desired level of doneness. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. For medium-rare, aim for 130-135°F; for medium, 135-140°F; and for medium-well, 140-145°F.
Add Cheese: In the last minute of cooking, place a slice of pepper jack cheese on top of each patty and cover the pan to allow the cheese to melt.
Rest: Remove the patties from the pan and let them rest for a few minutes before assembling the burgers. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a juicier burger.

Assembling the Beef Chorizo Burgers:

Now for the fun part! Let's build these delicious burgers.

Toast the Buns: Lightly toast the burger buns. This will prevent them from getting soggy. You can toast them in a toaster, in the oven, or on a grill pan.
Spread Chipotle Mayo: Spread a generous amount of chipotle mayo on both the top and bottom buns.
Add the Patty: Place a cheesy beef chorizo patty on the bottom bun.
Top with Avocado: Top the patty with slices of fresh avocado.
Add Pickled Red Onions: Add a generous amount of pickled red onions on top of the avocado.
Garnish (Optional): Garnish with fresh cilantro sprigs, if desired.
Top with Bun: Place the top bun on the burger.
Serve Immediately: Serve the burgers immediately and enjoy! These are best enjoyed hot and fresh.

Conclusion:

This Beef Chorizo Burger isn't just another burger recipe; it's a flavor explosion waiting to happen, and trust me, you absolutely need to experience it! The combination of rich, savory beef and the spicy, smoky kick of chorizo creates a symphony of tastes that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving more. It's the perfect way to elevate your next backyard barbecue or simply treat yourself to a restaurant-quality burger in the comfort of your own home. But what truly makes this burger a must-try? It's the sheer versatility! While the recipe as written is already a winner, feel free to experiment and customize it to your liking. For a truly decadent experience, try topping it with a fried egg and some crispy fried onions. The runny yolk adds a creamy richness that complements the spicy chorizo beautifully, while the fried onions provide a satisfying crunch. If you're looking for a lighter option, consider swapping out the traditional burger bun for a lettuce wrap or a whole-wheat bun. You can also add a vibrant slaw made with shredded cabbage, carrots, and a light vinaigrette to cut through the richness of the burger. Another fantastic variation is to add a dollop of guacamole or a spicy chipotle mayo for an extra layer of flavor and creaminess. Serving suggestions are endless! Pair this Beef Chorizo Burger with classic sides like crispy french fries, sweet potato fries, or a refreshing coleslaw. For a healthier option, try serving it with a side salad or grilled vegetables. And don't forget the drinks! A cold beer, a refreshing lemonade, or even a spicy margarita would be the perfect accompaniment to this flavorful burger. I've personally made this burger countless times, and it's always a crowd-pleaser. The secret, I believe, lies in the quality of the ingredients. Use high-quality ground beef and chorizo for the best flavor. Don't be afraid to experiment with different types of chorizo to find your favorite. Some are spicier than others, so choose one that suits your taste. The beauty of this recipe is that it's incredibly easy to make, even for beginner cooks. The instructions are straightforward, and the ingredients are readily available. You can easily whip up a batch of these burgers in under 30 minutes, making them perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a weekend gathering.

Ready to take your burger game to the next level?

I wholeheartedly encourage you to try this Beef Chorizo Burger recipe. I'm confident that you'll love it as much as I do. Once you've made it, I'd love to hear about your experience! Did you make any variations? What were your favorite toppings? What did you serve it with?

Share your creations!

Please share your photos and comments on social media using #BeefChorizoBurgerRecipe. I can't wait to see what you come up with! Your feedback is invaluable, and it helps me to continue creating delicious and easy-to-follow recipes for you. So go ahead, fire up the grill, gather your ingredients, and get ready to enjoy the best burger you've ever tasted! Happy cooking!