Grilled Burger with Traditional Chili Sauce

Introduction

This Burger with Traditional Chili Sauce features a juicy beef patty topped with a flavorful, hearty chili sauce. The chili sauce adds richness and spice, making it the star of this burger. Grilling the burger on the Arteflame grill gives the beef a perfect sear, locking in the juices and enhancing the smoky flavors.

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend)
• 4 burger buns
• 4 slices cheddar cheese (optional)
• 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
• Lettuce leaves
• 2 tbsp butter (for grilling)
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Traditional Chili Sauce:

• ½ lb ground beef
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 cup tomato sauce
• 1 tbsp chili powder
• 1 tsp cumin
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp sugar
• Salt and pepper to taste
• ½ cup beef broth
• 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce

Instructions

Step 1: Fire up the Arteflame Grill

Start by lighting the Arteflame grill using vegetable oil-soaked napkins placed under stacked firewood. Allow it to heat for about 20 minutes. Use the center grate to sear the burgers, and the outer flat top for toasting buns and grilling onions.

Step 2: Prepare the Chili Sauce

In a skillet on the flat top griddle, cook the diced onions and minced garlic until softened. Add the ground beef and cook until browned. Stir in the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, and sugar, cooking for a couple more minutes. Add the tomato sauce, beef broth, and Worcestershire sauce, and simmer until the sauce thickens, about 10-15 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Set aside to keep warm.

Step 3: Shape the Burger Patties

Divide the ground beef into four equal portions and shape them into patties, about ¾ inch thick. Season both sides with salt and pepper.

Step 4: Grill the Burger Patties

Sear the burger patties on the hot center grate for about 3-4 minutes per side to develop a nice crust. Move them to the outer flat top to finish cooking to your desired doneness. If you’re adding cheddar cheese, place a slice on each patty during the last minute of grilling to melt.

Step 5: Toast the Buns

Butter the burger buns and place them on the outer flat top for 1-2 minutes until golden and crispy.

Step 6: Assemble the Burgers

Spread a little chili sauce on the bottom bun, followed by a lettuce leaf and the grilled burger patty. Spoon more chili sauce over the patty, top with sliced onions, and place the upper bun.

Step 7: Serve

Serve the burger hot with your favorite side, like fries or chips, and enjoy the richness of the chili sauce in every bite.

Grilling Tips

• Simmer the chili sauce: Allow the chili sauce to reduce and thicken for maximum flavor.
• Cheddar cheese: The creamy cheddar adds richness and complements the spicy chili sauce.

Variations

1. Chili Cheese Burger: Add shredded cheddar and sliced jalapeños for an extra cheesy and spicy kick.
2. Bacon Chili Burger: Top with crispy bacon to add a smoky, salty flavor to the rich chili sauce.
3. BBQ Chili Burger: Mix some BBQ sauce into the chili for a smoky-sweet twist.
4. Vegetarian Chili Burger: Use a veggie patty and a bean-based chili sauce for a plant-based version.
5. Spicy Chili Burger: Add diced habanero peppers to the chili for an extra fiery kick.

Best Pairings

• French fries: A classic side dish that pairs perfectly with a hearty burger.
• Coleslaw: The tangy crunch of coleslaw balances the richness of the chili sauce.
• Onion rings: Crispy onion rings add texture and complement the savory flavors of the burger.

Conclusion

This Grilled Burger with Traditional Chili Sauce brings the best of both worlds—juicy beef patties and a rich, flavorful chili sauce. Grilled on the Arteflame for a perfect sear, this burger is a comforting, savory meal that will satisfy your taste buds.