Jalapeño Smash Burgers on the Arteflame Grill

Introduction

Grilling jalapeño smash burgers on an Arteflame grill brings out the best flavors and textures. This recipe uses the unique searing and griddle features of the Arteflame grill to create juicy, flavorful burgers. By searing on the center grate and finishing on the flat cooktop, you achieve the perfect doneness and sear without burning.

Ingredients

• 2 lbs ground beef (80/20 blend)
• 4 brioche buns
• 4 slices cheddar cheese
• 1 large onion (thinly sliced)
• 2 fresh jalapeños (sliced)
• 1/4 cup butter (melted)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Butter for grilling

Optional Toppings:

• Lettuce
• Tomato slices
• Pickles
• Ketchup
• Mustard
• Mayonnaise

Instructions

1. Preheat the Arteflame Grill: Fire up your Arteflame grill to get it ready for grilling. Ensure the center grill grate reaches over 1,000F for the perfect sear.
2. Form the Patties: Divide the ground beef into 8 equal portions. Roll each portion into a ball and set aside.
3. Sear the Onions and Jalapeños: Place the sliced onions and jalapeños on the flat cooktop, add a bit of butter, and cook until caramelized. Move them to the cooler side of the grill to keep warm.
4. Sear the Burgers: Place the beef balls on the center grill grate and press down with a spatula to flatten into patties. Sear for 1-2 minutes until a crust forms, then flip.  If the beff balls are too soft, quickly sear them on the flat griddle cooktop to firm them up before searing the on the grill grate.
5. Finish on Flat Cooktop: Move the patties to the flat cooktop to finish cooking. Add cheese slices to the patties and cover with a dome to melt.
6. Toast the Buns: Butter the brioche buns and place them on the flat cooktop until golden brown.
7. Assemble the Burgers: Place the patties on the bottom buns, add caramelized onions, jalapeños, and your choice of optional toppings. Top with the other half of the bun.
8. Serve: Serve the burgers hot with your favorite sides.

Tips

• Use Butter: Butter adds a rich flavor to the burgers and buns.
• Temperature Zones: Utilize the different heat zones on the Arteflame cooktop for optimal grilling.
• Resting: Let the patties rest for a minute before assembling to keep them juicy.

Variations

1. Bacon Jalapeño Smash Burger: Add crispy bacon slices to the burger.
2. Mushroom Swiss Jalapeño Burger: Top with sautéed mushrooms and Swiss cheese instead of cheddar.
3. BBQ Jalapeño Smash Burger: Add barbecue sauce and grilled onions.
4. Avocado Jalapeño Smash Burger: Top with sliced avocado and a squeeze of lime.
5. Blue Cheese Jalapeño Burger: Add crumbled blue cheese and caramelized onions.  Note: put the blue cheese on last; if it melts it becomes runny.

Drink Pairings

• Craft Beer: A hoppy IPA or a malty amber ale pairs well with the rich flavors.
• Iced Tea: A refreshing glass of iced tea complements the spicy burgers.
• Red Wine: A bold red wine like a Zinfandel or Cabernet Sauvignon balances the flavors.

Suggested Appetizer

• Grilled Corn on the Cob: Brush corn with butter, sprinkle with salt, and grill on the Arteflame flat cooktop.

Suggested Dessert

• Grilled Peaches: Halve and pit peaches, brush with honey, and grill on the flat cooktop until caramelized.