Introduction

The Grilled Horseshoe Sandwich is an Illinois classic packed with flavor. With a perfectly seared burger, crispy grilled fries, and a rich cheese sauce, this open-faced sandwich is a delicious, indulgent delight. Using the Arteflame grill, we achieve a steakhouse-quality sear at 1,000°F, ensuring the juiciest, most flavorful burger. Plus, grilling everything on the flat cooktop locks in flavors and delivers a beautifully golden finish. Get ready to experience the best Horseshoe Sandwich, all cooked to perfection on the Arteflame grill!

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef (divided into two thick patties)
• 2 thick slices of sturdy bread (Texas toast or sourdough)
• 2 cups frozen crinkle-cut fries
• 1/2 cup cheddar cheese (shredded)
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 2 tbsp butter
• 1 tsp mustard
• 1/2 tsp Worcestershire sauce
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Vegetable oil (for lighting the grill)

Instructions

Step 1: Fire up the Arteflame grill

1. Pour vegetable oil on three paper napkins and place them in the center of the grill.
2. Stack firewood on top of the napkins and light them.
3. Let the fire burn for about 20 minutes until the grill reaches cooking temperature.

Step 2: Grill the burger patties

1. Form the ground beef into thick patties and season with salt and pepper.
2. Sear the patties on the center grill grate at 1,000°F for 2 minutes per side to lock in juices.
3. Move the patties to the flat cooktop griddle to finish cooking to your desired doneness.
4. Remove when the internal temperature is 15°F below your target as they will continue cooking off the grill.

Step 3: Grill the fries

1. Place frozen fries on the flat griddle cooktop near the center for a crispy golden finish.
2. Turn occasionally to cook evenly until crispy, about 10 minutes.

Step 4: Grill the bread

1. Spread butter on both sides of the bread slices.
2. Place on the flat cooktop and grill until golden brown, about 2 minutes per side.

Step 5: Prepare the cheese sauce

1. Melt butter on the flat cooktop.
2. Stir in heavy cream, cheddar cheese, mustard, and Worcestershire sauce.
3. Mix until smooth and melted.

Step 6: Assemble the sandwich

1. Place grilled bread on a plate.
2. Top with the grilled burger patty.
3. Add a generous portion of crispy grilled fries.
4. Drizzle with creamy cheese sauce.

Tips

• Always remove meat from the grill when it is 15°F below the desired temperature.
• Use butter instead of oil for a richer flavor.
• Utilize different heat zones on the flat cooktop for precise cooking.
• For extra smokiness, grill with hardwood like oak or hickory.

Variations

1. BBQ Horseshoe: Replace cheddar cheese sauce with smoky BBQ cheese sauce and top with crispy onion straws.
2. Spicy Southwest: Add jalapeños to the burger and use pepper jack cheese for the sauce.
3. Bacon Lover's: Add crispy grilled bacon between the burger and fries.
4. Buffalo Style: Toss the fries in buffalo sauce and drizzle with blue cheese dressing.
5. Garlic Butter: Brush the bread with garlic butter before grilling and top with garlic aioli.

Conclusion

The Illinois Grilled Horseshoe Sandwich is an indulgent and delicious dish best made on the Arteflame grill. A perfectly seared burger, crispy grilled fries, and melted cheese sauce combine to create an unforgettable flavor. With the unique heat zones of the Arteflame grill, every element is cooked to perfection. Whether you go classic or try one of the variations, this recipe is sure to become a favorite!

Best Pairings

• Crisp coleslaw for a fresh contrast
• A cold craft beer to complement the smoky flavors
• Sweet potato fries for a unique twist
• Grilled corn on the cob for a summer BBQ feel