Grilled Southwestern Burger with Chipotle Mayo

Introduction

The Southwestern Burger is packed with bold, smoky flavors inspired by the American Southwest. Juicy beef patties are topped with pepper jack cheese, grilled onions, avocado, and a spicy chipotle mayo. Grilling the burger on the Arteflame ensures a beautiful sear and a juicy center, while the toppings add layers of heat and freshness.

Ingredients

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

For the Chipotle Mayo:

• ½ cup mayonnaise
• 1 tbsp chipotle peppers in adobo, minced
• 1 tsp lime juice
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 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. You’ll use the center grate to sear the burgers and the outer flat top for grilling the onions and toasting the buns.

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 Onions

Melt butter on the flat top and add the sliced onions. Grill for about 5-7 minutes until soft and slightly caramelized. Set them aside on the outer edge to keep warm.

Step 4: Grill the Burgers

Place the burger patties on the hot center grate and sear for about 3-4 minutes per side, creating a nice crust. Move the patties to the cooler outer flat top and top with a slice of pepper jack cheese. Let the cheese melt while 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 brown.

Step 6: Make the Chipotle Mayo

In a small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, minced chipotle peppers, lime juice, smoked paprika, and salt until smooth.

Step 7: Assemble the Southwestern Burgers

Spread chipotle mayo on both sides of the toasted buns. Place a lettuce leaf on the bottom bun, followed by the grilled patty with melted cheese, grilled onions, and slices of avocado. Top with the upper bun.

Step 8: Serve

Serve the Southwestern burgers hot with your favorite sides like sweet potato fries or grilled corn on the cob.

Grilling Tips

• High heat for searing: The center grate of the Arteflame is perfect for creating a crust while keeping the burger juicy.
• Chipotle mayo: Adjust the amount of chipotle peppers for your desired level of heat.

5 Variations of Southwestern Burger

1. Bacon Southwestern Burger: Add crispy grilled bacon for an extra layer of smoky goodness.
2. BBQ Southwestern Burger: Swap the chipotle mayo for BBQ sauce and top with crispy onion rings.
3. Spicy Southwestern Burger: Add pickled jalapeños or extra chipotle peppers for a fiery kick.
4. Vegetarian Southwestern Burger: Substitute the beef patty with a grilled black bean patty for a veggie-friendly option.
5. Southwestern Turkey Burger: Use ground turkey instead of beef for a leaner option, and add a slice of sharp cheddar.

Best Pairings

• Sweet potato fries: The sweetness balances the spiciness of the chipotle mayo.
• Grilled corn on the cob: A smoky side that enhances the Southwestern flavors.
• Coleslaw: A creamy and refreshing contrast to the spicy burger.

Conclusion

This Grilled Southwestern Burger combines juicy beef with the smoky flavors of chipotle, pepper jack cheese, and grilled onions. Topped with creamy avocado and spicy chipotle mayo, this burger is a flavor-packed bite of the Southwest.