Grilled Red Hot Chili Burger with Spicy Chili Sauce

Introduction

This Red Hot Chili Burger brings the heat with spicy ingredients like fresh jalapeños, pepper jack cheese, and a fiery chili-infused sauce. Grilling the burger on the Arteflame adds a smoky flavor to the beef, while the spicy toppings pack a punch. This burger is perfect for those who love bold, spicy flavors!

Ingredients

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

For the Spicy Chili Sauce:

• ½ cup mayonnaise
• 2 tbsp Sriracha or hot sauce
• 1 tbsp chili powder
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp lime juice
• Salt to taste

Instructions

Step 1: Fire up the Arteflame Grill

Light the Arteflame grill by stacking firewood over vegetable oil-soaked napkins. Let it burn for about 20 minutes. The center grate will sear the burgers, while the outer flat top is perfect for grilling the buns and jalapeños.

Step 2: 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 3: Grill the Jalapeños and Onions

Melt butter on the flat top and add the sliced jalapeños and onions. Grill for about 5 minutes until softened and slightly charred. Move them to the side to keep warm.

Step 4: Grill the Red Hot Chili Burgers

Place the burger patties on the hot center grate and sear each side for about 3-4 minutes, creating a nice crust. Move the patties to the outer flat top and top each one with a slice of pepper jack cheese. Let the cheese melt as the burgers finish cooking to your desired doneness.

Step 5: Toast the Buns

Butter the brioche buns and place them on the outer flat top for 1-2 minutes, until lightly toasted and golden.

Step 6: Make the Spicy Chili Sauce

In a small bowl, mix together mayonnaise, Sriracha (or your preferred hot sauce), chili powder, smoked paprika, lime juice, and a pinch of salt until smooth.

Step 7: Assemble the Red Hot Chili Burgers

Spread the spicy chili sauce on both sides of the toasted buns. Place a lettuce leaf on the bottom bun, followed by the grilled burger patty with melted pepper jack cheese. Top with grilled jalapeños, onions, and cap with the upper bun.

Step 8: Serve

Serve the Red Hot Chili Burger hot, with a side of fries or chips, and enjoy the heat!

Tips

• High heat for searing: Use the center grate to create a flavorful crust on the burger patties without overcooking.
• Adjust the heat: For extra spice, add more hot sauce to the chili sauce or use habanero peppers instead of jalapeños.

Variations

1. BBQ Chili Burger: Swap the chili sauce for spicy BBQ sauce and add crispy onion rings for a smoky, sweet twist.
2. Habanero Chili Burger: Replace the jalapeños with habaneros for an extra kick of heat.
3. Cheesy Chili Burger: Double up on the cheese with both cheddar and pepper jack for a creamy, spicy combo.
4. Bacon Chili Burger: Add crispy bacon for a salty contrast to the spicy toppings.
5. Vegetarian Chili Burger: Use a spicy black bean or veggie patty instead of beef for a meat-free option.

Best Pairings

• Spicy sweet potato fries: The sweetness of the fries balances the heat of the burger.
• Grilled corn on the cob: A smoky side that complements the spicy flavors of the burger.
• Chili-lime coleslaw: A tangy, crunchy side dish that adds a refreshing contrast.

Conclusion

This Grilled Red Hot Chili Burger combines spicy, smoky, and savory elements for an unforgettable bite. The melted pepper jack cheese, grilled jalapeños, and fiery chili sauce turn this burger into a spicy flavor bomb that’s perfect for heat lovers.