Chicago-Style Fillet Burger: Illinois Gourmet Grilling

Introduction

This Chicago-style fillet burger is the ultimate gourmet burger experience, combining a perfectly seared filet mignon patty with caramelized mushrooms and onions. Cooked entirely on the Arteflame grill, this burger delivers unbeatable texture and flavor with a mouthwatering steakhouse sear.

Ingredients

• 2 filet mignon steaks (6oz each), finely chopped
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 1 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1 cup sliced mushrooms
• 1 small onion, thinly sliced
• 2 brioche burger buns
• 1 tbsp mayonnaise
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 2 slices of Swiss or cheddar cheese (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Fire Up the Arteflame Grill

1. Pour vegetable oil on three paper napkins and place them in the grill.
2. Stack firewood on top of the napkins and light them.
3. Allow the fire to build for about 20 minutes until the cooktop reaches grilling temperature.

Step 2: Prepare the Filet Mignon Patty

1. Finely chop the filet mignon steaks and form them into burger patties.
2. Season both sides generously with salt and black pepper.

Step 3: Sear and Cook the Pattys

1. Place the patties on the center grill grate at 1,000F and sear for 1 minute per side.
2. Move the patties to the flat cooktop griddle and cook to preferred doneness (about 3-4 minutes per side for medium-rare).

Step 4: Cook the Mushrooms and Onions

1. Place butter on the flat cooktop griddle.
2. Once melted, add the mushrooms and onions.
3. Cook until golden brown and caramelized, about 5-6 minutes.

Step 5: Assemble the Burger

1. Toast the brioche buns on the flat cooktop for 1-2 minutes until golden.
2. Mix mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and garlic powder to create a flavorful sauce.
3. Spread the sauce onto the bottom bun.
4. Place the filet mignon patty on the bun.
5. Top with caramelized mushrooms and onions, followed by cheese if using.
6. Cover with the top bun and serve immediately.

Tips

• Remove the patties from the grill when they are 15°F below the target temperature to allow for carryover cooking.
• Use high-quality firewood for a rich, smokey flavor.
• For an extra buttery taste, brush the buns with melted butter before toasting.

Variations

1. Spicy Chicago Burger: Add sliced jalapeños and a spicy aioli for a fiery kick.
2. Garlic Butter Fillet Burger: Baste the patty with garlic butter while grilling.
3. Blue Cheese and Bacon Burger: Top with blue cheese crumbles and crispy bacon.
4. Mushroom Swiss Burger: Use Swiss cheese and an extra mushroom layer for a creamy texture.
5. BBQ Bacon Fillet Burger: Add crispy bacon and BBQ sauce for a smoky-sweet finish.

Conclusion

Grilling a Chicago-style fillet burger on the Arteflame grill unlocks deep, rich flavors with a tender, juicy texture. With a perfect sear and mouthwatering toppings, this burger will be the star of your next cookout.

Best Pairings

• Sweet potato fries
• Grilled asparagus
• Classic coleslaw
• Spicy pickles
• Cold craft beer or a bold red wine