Smoky Chipotle Burger Patties

Are you tired of the same old grilled burgers every summer? Traditional methods often yield quick, but predictable results, lacking the depth of flavor that can elevate a simple burger to a gourmet experience.

Imagine sinking your teeth into a burger that’s been slowly smoked, allowing the rich, smoky flavors to meld perfectly with a spicy chipotle kick. This method not only infuses your burgers with a unique taste but also ensures they remain tender and juicy.

Smoked Chipotle Burgers are the solution to your grilling routine rut. With just a few extra steps, you can transform your burgers into a flavorful feast that impresses and satisfies.

Ingredients

For the Burgers

• 2 pounds ground beef (80/20 blend for better flavor and juiciness)
• 2 tablespoons McCormick’s Montreal steak seasoning
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
• 2-3 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, finely diced
• 2 tablespoons adobo sauce
• 1/2 onion, grated

For the Guacamole

• 2 jumbo avocados (or 3 regular-sized avocados)
• 1/2 red onion, finely diced
• 1 roma tomato, diced and seeds removed
• 1 jalapeño, seeded and finely diced (optional)
• 1 bunch cilantro, chopped
• Juice of 1/2 lime
• Hickory smoked salt, to taste
• 1 teaspoon Cattleman’s 8 Second Carne Asada seasoning (optional)
• 2 garlic cloves, pressed (optional)

Instructions

Preparing the Burgers

1. Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, Montreal steak seasoning, Worcestershire sauce, diced chipotle peppers, adobo sauce, and grated onion. Mix gently to incorporate the ingredients without overworking the meat.
2. Form Patties: Divide the mixture into half-pound portions and shape them into patties. Make them slightly larger than your burger buns to account for shrinkage during cooking.
3. Chill Patties: Place the formed patties in the freezer for 30 minutes. This helps them firm up and prevents sticking to the grill grates during the smoking process.

Making the Guacamole

1. Prepare Avocados: Cut the avocados in half, remove the pits, and scoop out the flesh. Dice the flesh and place it in a mixing bowl.
2. Add Ingredients: To the bowl, add diced red onion, roma tomato, jalapeño (if using), chopped cilantro, lime juice, and seasonings. Mash the mixture to your preferred consistency, and adjust the seasoning as needed.
3. Chill: Cover the guacamole with plastic wrap and refrigerate until ready to use. This allows the flavors to meld together.

Smoking the Burgers

1. Preheat the Grill: Set your smoker or grill to 275°F (135°C). Arrange the patties on the grill, ensuring they are not overcrowded.
2. Cook: Smoke the burgers until they reach an internal temperature of 140°F (60°C) for medium doneness. This process may take approximately 1 hour, but monitor the burgers closely as cooking times can vary.
3. Add Cheese (optional): In the last few minutes of cooking, you may add cheese to the burgers if desired.

Assembling the Burgers

1. Toast the Buns: Lightly toast the burger buns on the grill.
2. Build the Burgers: Layer each bun with a burger patty, followed by your choice of toppings, including fresh lettuce, tomato slices, and a generous amount of guacamole.
3. Serve: Assemble the burger and serve immediately.

Tips

• Use Fatty Beef: Opt for an 80/20 beef blend to ensure juicy, flavorful burgers.
• Adjust Spices: Feel free to modify the amount of chipotle peppers and seasoning to suit your taste preferences.
• Monitor Cooking: Always use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the burgers.

Enjoy your smoked chipotle burgers with your favorite side dishes or on their own for a satisfying meal.

Conclusion

Smoked Chipotle Burgers offer a delightful departure from the traditional quick-cooking burger, combining the rich flavors of chipotle peppers with the slow-cooked tenderness achieved through smoking. This method not only infuses the meat with a deep, smoky essence but also ensures a juicy, flavorful patty with every bite. Topped with a fresh, homemade guacamole, these burgers are both satisfying and flavorful.

Whether you’re a grilling enthusiast or a novice cook looking to try something new, this recipe provides a straightforward approach to creating a gourmet burger experience at home. The combination of chipotle heat and creamy guacamole makes for a memorable meal that’s perfect for any occasion.

Enjoy the process of crafting these burgers and savor the results of your efforts. The attention to detail in smoking and seasoning will elevate your burger game and offer a taste of smoky, spicy perfection.