Nebraska Grilled Runza Burgers on the Arteflame

Introduction

This Nebraska-inspired Grilled Runza Burger combines seasoned ground beef, caramelized onions, and cabbage, all perfectly seared on the Arteflame grill for a juicy, flavorful bite. By using high heat to sear the meat first, then finishing it on the flat cooktop, you achieve the perfect texture and taste. Let's fire up the grill and get started!

Ingredients

• 1.5 lbs ground beef
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1 cup shredded cabbage
• 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
• 2 tbsp butter
• 4 hamburger buns
• 4 slices Swiss cheese
• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 1/4 cup pickles, sliced

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Arteflame Grill

1. Pour some vegetable oil on three paper napkins and place them in the grill.
2. Stack firewood over the oiled napkins.
3. Light the paper and let the firewood catch. Wait about 20 minutes until the grill is hot and the center grill grate reaches 1,000°F.

Step 2: Prepare the Burger Patties

1. In a mixing bowl, combine ground beef, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
2. Form into 4 equal patties, slightly larger than the buns (they will shrink during cooking).

Step 3: Caramelize the Onions & Cabbage

1. Add butter to the outer flat cooktop on the grill.
2. Add sliced onions and shredded cabbage to the buttered cooktop.
3. Cook, stirring occasionally, until caramelized, about 8-10 minutes.

Step 4: Sear the Burger Patties

1. Place the patties on the center grill grate to sear at 1,000°F for 1-2 minutes per side.
2. Once a deep crust forms, move them to the flat top griddle to finish cooking to desired doneness.
3. Remove when the internal temperature is 15°F below your target temp.

Step 5: Assemble the Burgers

1. Toast the buns on the flat top griddle for about 30 seconds.
2. Spread Dijon mustard on the bottom buns.
3. Place the burgers on the buns and top with Swiss cheese.
4. Add caramelized cabbage and onions.
5. Top with pickles and the top bun.

Tips

• Use high-quality beef for the juiciest burgers.
• Let the burgers rest for a few minutes before serving.
• Ensure the grill is properly preheated for best searing results.

Variations

1. Spicy Runza Burger: Add sliced jalapeños and pepper jack cheese.
2. Bacon Runza Burger: Add crispy bacon and cheddar cheese.
3. Mushroom Swiss Runza Burger: Sauté mushrooms with the onions and use Swiss cheese.
4. BBQ Runza Burger: Swap the mustard for barbecue sauce and add crispy onion strings.
5. Blue Cheese Runza Burger: Add blue cheese crumbles and caramelized onions.

Best Pairings

• Grilled sweet corn
• Homemade steak fries
• Classic coleslaw
• Ice-cold craft beer
• Fresh lemonade

Conclusion

Cooking Nebraska-style Runza Burgers on the Arteflame grill creates a rich, deep flavor with the perfect sear and tenderness. With simple ingredients and the right technique, you get a juicy, flavorful burger that embodies the best of Nebraska cuisine. Enjoy your grilled masterpiece!