Can I substitute pepper jack cheese with another type?

Yes! While pepper jack adds a spicy kick, mild cheddar or Monterey Jack work well. Just note that swapping cheeses will slightly alter the overall flavor profile.

How long should I cook the patties for optimal texture?

I aim for 2-3 minutes per side on a scorching griddle. This creates a crispy crust while keeping the center juicy. Use a meat thermometer to ensure 160°F internal temperature.

What if I can’t find chipotle peppers for the drizzle?

Smoked paprika mixed with a dash of hot sauce mimics the smoky heat. Adjust ratios to balance the spice level while maintaining that signature depth.

Can I prepare components ahead of time?

Absolutely. The smoky chipotle drizzle stores well for 3 days refrigerated. Prep bacon and veggies in advance, but cook patties fresh for best texture.

Are there alternatives to bacon for topping?

Crispy fried onions or avocado slices add great texture. For a vegetarian twist, try meat-free bacon bits or roasted mushrooms.

How do I prevent the burger from becoming too greasy?

Use 80/20 ground beef for juiciness without excess fat. Press patties firmly during cooking to render fat efficiently, and blot with paper towels before assembling.

My Loaded Cowboy BBQ Brisket Smash Burger with Smoky Chipotle Drizzle

Description

Ultimate smash burger combining barbecue richness with quick-seared perfection. Features smoky chipotle drizzle, crispy bacon, and pepper jack cheese on golden-crusted beef patties.

Ingredients

Scale

1½ lbs 80/20 ground beef

6 thick-cut bacon strips

6 oz pepper jack cheese, sliced

4 brioche hamburger buns

2 large yellow onions, sliced ¼-inch thick

½ cup mayonnaise

1 tbsp hot honey

2 tsp smoked paprika

1 tsp garlic powder

2–3 chipotle peppers in adobo, chopped

1 tbsp lime juice

2 tbsp Wesson Corn Oil

Salt and black pepper to taste

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

1. Heat griddle to 375-400°F and brush with Wesson Corn Oil

2. Cook bacon strips until crispy, reserve fat for later use

3. Form ground beef into loose 4-ounce balls, keep refrigerated

4. Meanwhile, caramelize onion slices in reserved bacon fat until golden

5. Mix mayo, hot honey, smoked paprika, chopped chipotles, and lime juice for drizzle

6. Next, place beef balls on hot griddle 4 inches apart

7. Smash immediately with burger press for 5 seconds to create thin patties

8. Season with garlic powder, salt, and pepper after smashing

9. Cook 2.5 minutes without moving, then flip carefully

10. Top with pepper jack cheese slices and cook 2 more minutes

11. Subsequently, toast brioche buns cut-side down on griddle until golden

12. Assemble: bottom bun + chipotle drizzle + patty + bacon + onions + top bun

13. Finally, serve immediately while cheese is melted and buns are crispy

Notes

Use 80/20 ground beef for optimal fat content and juiciness

Never pack meat balls tightly – loose formation creates better smash texture

Keep surface temperature between 375-400°F for perfect crust formation

Sauce can be prepared 3 days ahead and refrigerated for enhanced flavors

For spicier version, add extra chipotle peppers to taste

Furthermore, wipe griddle between batches to prevent burnt residue buildup

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Grilling
Cuisine: American BBQ

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 burger
Calories: 650
Sugar: 8g
Sodium: 1100mg
Fat: 42g
Saturated Fat: 16g
Unsaturated Fat: 23g
Trans Fat: 1g
Carbohydrates: 35g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 38g
Cholesterol: 95mg