Burger with Blue Cheese Spread Recipe

It was a weekend barbecue, the sun was shining, and the aroma of grilling meat filled the air. We were tired of the same old burgers, so I decided to spice things up. That’s when I stumbled upon this recipe for Burgers with Blue Cheese Spread. Honestly, I was a little hesitant at first; blue cheese can be quite polarizing. But let me tell you, the gamble paid off big time! From the first bite, we were hooked. The creamy, tangy blue cheese spread perfectly complemented the juicy, savory burger patty, creating a flavor explosion that was both sophisticated and utterly satisfying. Even the kids, who are usually picky eaters, devoured them. My husband declared it the best burger he’d ever had, and I have to admit, I was right there with him. This recipe has become a new family favorite, and I’m so excited to share it with you. Get ready to elevate your burger game to a whole new level!

Ingredients

To craft these sensational Burgers with Blue Cheese Spread, you’ll need a selection of fresh, high-quality ingredients. Let’s break down everything you’ll need for both the juicy burger patties and the decadent blue cheese spread. Using the right ingredients is crucial for achieving that perfect balance of flavors and textures that make this burger truly exceptional. Don’t skimp on quality here; it makes all the difference!

For the Burger Patties:

• 2 lbs Ground Beef (80/20 blend recommended): The foundation of any great burger is, of course, the beef. An 80/20 blend of ground beef is ideal because it provides the perfect ratio of lean meat to fat. The fat is essential for keeping the burgers juicy and flavorful during cooking. Too lean, and your burgers will be dry and tough. Too fatty, and they might shrink excessively and become greasy. If you prefer a slightly leaner burger, you can use 85/15, but be extra careful not to overcook them. For the best flavor, opt for ground chuck, which is known for its rich beefy taste. You can also ask your butcher to grind a custom blend for you, perhaps combining chuck with a bit of brisket for added depth of flavor.
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire Sauce: This umami-rich sauce is a secret weapon for enhancing the savory notes in your burger patties. Worcestershire sauce adds a complex depth of flavor that you can’t quite put your finger on, but it makes a significant difference. It’s a blend of vinegar, molasses, anchovies, tamarind, garlic, and other seasonings, which work together to create a savory and slightly tangy profile. Don’t skip this ingredient – it really elevates the burger’s taste!
• 1 tbsp Dijon Mustard: Dijon mustard brings a tangy kick and a subtle sharpness to the burger patties. It helps to balance the richness of the beef and adds a layer of complexity to the overall flavor profile. Dijon mustard is also a great emulsifier, helping to bind the ingredients together and keep the patties moist. Use a good quality Dijon mustard for the best flavor.
• 1 tsp Garlic Powder: Garlic powder provides a consistent and convenient way to infuse the burger patties with a savory garlic flavor. Fresh garlic can be used, but garlic powder disperses more evenly throughout the meat mixture, ensuring every bite is garlicky. If you prefer fresh garlic, you can use 2-3 cloves of minced garlic, but be sure to mince them very finely so they incorporate well into the patties.
• 1 tsp Onion Powder: Similar to garlic powder, onion powder adds a foundational savory note to the burgers. It complements the garlic and enhances the overall umami flavor. Onion powder is less pungent than fresh onion and provides a more subtle and evenly distributed onion flavor throughout the patty. If you’re a big onion fan, you could also add finely diced caramelized onions to the patties for a sweeter, more intense onion flavor, but this is optional and not part of the core recipe.
• 1 tsp Smoked Paprika: Smoked paprika adds a subtle smoky depth and a beautiful reddish hue to the burger patties. It’s not overpowering, but it contributes a layer of complexity that makes these burgers taste like they were grilled over an open flame, even if you’re cooking them on a stovetop grill pan. If you don’t have smoked paprika, you can use regular paprika, but the smoky flavor really enhances the overall burger experience.
• Salt and Freshly Ground Black Pepper to taste: Seasoning is paramount! Salt enhances all the flavors in the burger and is crucial for bringing out the best in the beef. Freshly ground black pepper adds a pungent bite and complements the savory notes. Don’t be shy with the seasoning; generously salt and pepper the meat mixture to ensure flavorful patties. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
• 4-6 Burger Buns: The bun is just as important as the patty! Choose high-quality burger buns that can stand up to the juicy patty and the generous blue cheese spread without becoming soggy. Brioche buns are a fantastic choice – they are soft, slightly sweet, and sturdy. Sesame seed buns are another classic option. Potato buns are also wonderfully soft and flavorful. Consider toasting the buns lightly before assembling the burgers for added texture and to prevent sogginess.

For the Blue Cheese Spread:

• 4 oz Blue Cheese (such as Roquefort, Gorgonzola, or Stilton), crumbled: Blue cheese is the star of this spread! The type of blue cheese you choose will significantly impact the flavor profile. Roquefort is a sheep’s milk blue cheese from France with a strong, pungent, and salty flavor. Gorgonzola is an Italian cow’s milk blue cheese that can range from mild and creamy (dolce) to sharp and crumbly (piccante). Stilton is an English cow’s milk blue cheese known for its rich, creamy texture and complex, nutty flavor. For this recipe, a medium-strength blue cheese like Gorgonzola or Stilton is a good starting point. If you love a bold blue cheese flavor, go for Roquefort. Make sure the blue cheese is good quality for the best taste.
• 1/2 cup Mayonnaise: Mayonnaise forms the creamy base of the blue cheese spread. Use a good quality, full-fat mayonnaise for the richest flavor and texture. Mayonnaise adds moisture and helps to bind the crumbled blue cheese and other ingredients together. You can use homemade mayonnaise or a store-bought brand you trust.
• 1/4 cup Sour Cream: Sour cream adds a tangy counterpoint to the rich blue cheese and mayonnaise, balancing the flavors and adding a pleasant slight acidity. Full-fat sour cream is recommended for the best texture and flavor. If you don’t have sour cream, you can substitute Greek yogurt for a slightly tangier and healthier option, but sour cream provides a classic flavor that complements blue cheese perfectly.
• 2 tbsp Milk (or more, to adjust consistency): Milk is used to adjust the consistency of the blue cheese spread, making it smoother and easier to spread on the burger buns. Start with 2 tablespoons and add more, one tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency. You want the spread to be creamy and spreadable, but not too runny.
• 1 tbsp Lemon Juice, freshly squeezed: Fresh lemon juice brightens up the blue cheese spread, adding a zesty note that cuts through the richness and enhances the overall flavor. Freshly squeezed lemon juice is always preferred over bottled for its brighter, cleaner taste. The acidity of the lemon juice also helps to balance the strong flavor of the blue cheese.
• 1 tbsp Fresh Parsley, finely chopped: Fresh parsley adds a touch of herbaceousness and freshness to the blue cheese spread. It also provides a nice visual contrast and a pop of green color. Finely chopped parsley blends well into the spread and adds a subtle, clean flavor that complements the other ingredients. Flat-leaf parsley (Italian parsley) is generally preferred for its stronger flavor compared to curly parsley.
• 1/2 tsp Garlic Powder: A touch more garlic powder in the spread reinforces the garlic notes in the burger patty and adds another layer of savory flavor to the overall burger. It enhances the savory profile of the blue cheese and mayonnaise.
• 1/4 tsp Black Pepper, freshly ground: Freshly ground black pepper adds a touch of spice and depth to the blue cheese spread, complementing the blue cheese and other flavors. Just a pinch is enough to add a little warmth and complexity to the spread.

Instructions

Now, let’s get to the exciting part – putting it all together! Follow these step-by-step instructions to create mouthwatering Burgers with Blue Cheese Spread. We’ll start by making the flavorful blue cheese spread, then move on to preparing the juicy burger patties, grilling them to perfection, and finally assembling these gourmet burgers. Each step is designed to ensure maximum flavor and a satisfying burger experience.

Preparing the Blue Cheese Spread:

1. Combine Blue Cheese and Mayonnaise: In a medium-sized bowl, add the crumbled blue cheese and mayonnaise. Use a fork to gently mash the blue cheese into the mayonnaise. You don’t want to completely smooth it out; leaving some small crumbles of blue cheese will add texture and bursts of flavor to the spread. The goal is to incorporate the blue cheese into the mayonnaise base.
2. Incorporate Sour Cream and Milk: Add the sour cream and 2 tablespoons of milk to the bowl. Stir to combine all the ingredients. The sour cream will add tanginess and creaminess, while the milk will help to thin out the spread to a more spreadable consistency.
3. Add Lemon Juice, Parsley, Garlic Powder, and Pepper: Stir in the freshly squeezed lemon juice, finely chopped fresh parsley, garlic powder, and freshly ground black pepper. These ingredients will add brightness, freshness, and depth of flavor to the spread. The lemon juice will cut through the richness of the blue cheese and mayonnaise, while the parsley adds a fresh, herbaceous note.
4. Adjust Consistency and Seasoning: Check the consistency of the spread. If it’s too thick, add more milk, one tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired spreadable consistency. Taste the spread and adjust seasoning as needed. You may want to add a pinch more salt or pepper, or even a bit more lemon juice if you prefer a tangier spread. Remember that the flavors will meld and intensify as the spread sits, so don’t over-season initially.
5. Chill for Flavors to Meld: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the blue cheese spread for at least 30 minutes, or preferably for an hour or two. Chilling allows the flavors to meld together beautifully and the spread to thicken slightly. You can make the blue cheese spread ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

Making the Burger Patties:

1. Combine Ground Beef and Seasonings: In a large bowl, gently break up the ground beef with your hands. Add the Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and freshly ground black pepper to the beef.
2. Gently Mix Ingredients: Using your hands, gently mix all the ingredients together until just combined. Be careful not to overmix the meat. Overmixing can result in tough burgers. You want to distribute the seasonings evenly throughout the beef, but avoid compacting the meat too much.
3. Form Patties: Divide the meat mixture into 4-6 equal portions, depending on your desired burger size. Gently shape each portion into a patty, about ¾ inch thick. Make a slight indentation in the center of each patty with your thumb. This helps prevent the burgers from bulging in the center as they cook. The indentation allows the patty to cook more evenly and remain flat.
4. Chill Patties (Optional but Recommended): Place the formed patties on a plate lined with parchment paper. Cover loosely with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to an hour. Chilling the patties helps them hold their shape better during grilling and prevents them from shrinking excessively. It also allows the flavors to further meld together.

Grilling the Burgers:

1. Preheat Grill (or Grill Pan): Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If using a charcoal grill, wait until the coals are covered with white ash. If using a gas grill, preheat it to around 375-400°F (190-200°C). Alternatively, you can use a stovetop grill pan or a heavy-bottomed skillet over medium-high heat. Make sure the grill grates or pan are clean and lightly oiled to prevent sticking.
2. Grill the Patties: Place the burger patties on the preheated grill grates or grill pan. Grill for 4-5 minutes per side for medium-rare, 5-6 minutes per side for medium, or 6-7 minutes per side for medium-well, or until the internal temperature reaches your desired level of doneness. Use a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the patty to check the internal temperature. For medium-rare, aim for 130-135°F (54-57°C), for medium 135-140°F (57-60°C), and for medium-well 140-145°F (60-63°C). Avoid pressing down on the patties with a spatula while grilling, as this will squeeze out the juices and result in drier burgers.
3. Toast Burger Buns (Optional): While the burgers are grilling, lightly toast the burger buns. You can toast them on the grill grates for a minute or two, cut-side down, or in a toaster or oven. Toasting the buns adds a nice texture and prevents them from becoming soggy when you add the blue cheese spread and juicy patty.

Assembling the Burgers:

1. Spread Blue Cheese Spread on Buns: Spread a generous amount of the prepared blue cheese spread on both the top and bottom halves of each toasted burger bun. Don’t be shy with the spread – it’s the star of the show!
2. Place Burger Patties on Bottom Buns: Place the grilled burger patties on the blue cheese spread-covered bottom buns.
3. Add Desired Toppings (Optional): While these burgers are fantastic on their own with just the blue cheese spread, you can add other toppings if desired. Some great options include:
   • Caramelized Onions: Adds sweetness and depth.
   • Crispy Bacon: Adds smoky flavor and crunch.
   • Arugula or Baby Spinach: Adds freshness and a peppery bite.
   • Sliced Tomato: Adds juiciness and acidity.
   • Pickled Red Onions: Adds tanginess and crunch.
4. Top with Bun Tops and Serve: Place the blue cheese spread-covered top buns on top of the patties and any additional toppings. Serve immediately and enjoy these incredibly flavorful Burgers with Blue Cheese Spread!

Nutrition Facts

(Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.)

Servings: 4-6 burgers

Approximate Calories per Serving (per burger, with blue cheese spread and bun, no additional toppings): 650-800 calories

• Protein: 35-45g
• Fat: 45-60g
• Saturated Fat: 20-30g
• Cholesterol: 150-200mg
• Sodium: 800-1200mg
• Carbohydrates: 30-40g
• Fiber: 2-4g
• Sugar: 5-8g

Disclaimer: These nutritional values are estimates only and should be considered as a general guideline. Actual values may vary depending on the specific brands and types of ingredients used, as well as portion sizes. For precise nutritional information, it is recommended to use a nutrition calculator and input the exact ingredients and quantities you are using.

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 25 minutes (for spread and patty preparation)
• Chill Time (Optional but Recommended): 30 minutes – 1 hour (for patties and spread)
• Cook Time: 10-15 minutes (for grilling burgers)
• Total Time: Approximately 1 hour – 1 hour 30 minutes (including chill time)

How to Serve

These Burgers with Blue Cheese Spread are a meal in themselves, but pairing them with the right sides and accompaniments can elevate the dining experience even further. Here are some delicious ways to serve these gourmet burgers:

• Classic Sides:
  • Crispy French Fries: A timeless pairing that never disappoints. Consider oven-baked fries for a healthier option or truffle fries for a gourmet touch.
  • Sweet Potato Fries: A slightly sweeter and healthier alternative to regular fries, offering a nice contrast to the savory burger.
  • Onion Rings: Crunchy, golden onion rings provide a satisfyingly indulgent side.
  • Potato Salad: Creamy or tangy potato salad complements the richness of the burger.
  • Coleslaw: A refreshing coleslaw, either creamy or vinegar-based, provides a crisp and cool contrast.
• Fresh and Healthy Sides:
  • Green Salad: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette offers a refreshing and healthy counterpoint.
  • Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad adds a touch of elegance and complements the burger’s richness.
  • Grilled Vegetables: Grilled asparagus, zucchini, bell peppers, or corn on the cob are healthy and flavorful sides.
  • Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze provide a light and vibrant side.
  • Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad can cleanse the palate and offer a sweet ending to the meal.
• Drink Pairings:
  • Craft Beer: A hoppy IPA or a rich stout pairs wonderfully with the bold flavors of blue cheese and beef.
  • Red Wine: A medium-bodied red wine like Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon complements the savory burger.
  • Iced Tea or Lemonade: Refreshing non-alcoholic options that cut through the richness of the burger.
  • Sparkling Water with Lemon or Lime: A light and bubbly option to cleanse the palate.
  • Milkshakes: For a classic burger joint experience, pair with a thick and creamy milkshake (vanilla, chocolate, or even a coffee milkshake would be delicious).
• Toppings and Condiments (Optional, but consider offering a small selection for customization):
  • Extra Blue Cheese Crumbles: For those who want an even bolder blue cheese flavor.
  • Caramelized Onions: Sweet and savory addition.
  • Crispy Bacon Strips: Adds smoky flavor and crunch.
  • Pickles: Classic burger accompaniment for tang and crunch.
  • Different Types of Lettuce: Butter lettuce, romaine lettuce, or red leaf lettuce for added texture and freshness.

Additional Tips for Burger Perfection

Want to take your Burgers with Blue Cheese Spread to the next level? Here are five essential tips to ensure burger perfection every time:

1. Choose High-Quality Ground Beef: The quality of your ground beef is paramount. Opt for fresh, high-quality ground chuck with an 80/20 lean-to-fat ratio for optimal juiciness and flavor. If possible, ask your butcher to grind the beef fresh for you. Better quality beef will result in a more flavorful and tender burger. Don’t be afraid to splurge a little on good beef; it makes a significant difference.
2. Don’t Overmix the Burger Patties: Overmixing the ground beef will develop the gluten in the meat, resulting in tough and dense burgers. Mix the ingredients gently with your hands until just combined. The less you handle the meat, the more tender your burgers will be. Think of it like a delicate dough – you want to incorporate the ingredients without working the meat too much.
3. Make an Indentation in the Center of Patties: As mentioned in the instructions, making a slight indentation in the center of each patty with your thumb before grilling is crucial. This simple step prevents the burgers from bulging in the center as they cook and ensures they cook more evenly and remain flat, perfect for fitting nicely in the bun.
4. Control the Grill Temperature and Don’t Overcook: Grilling at the right temperature is key to juicy burgers. Medium-high heat is generally ideal. Avoid grilling over excessively high heat, which can char the outside of the burgers before the inside is cooked through. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature and avoid overcooking. Overcooked burgers are dry and tough. Aim for your desired level of doneness (medium-rare, medium, medium-well) and take the burgers off the grill as soon as they reach that temperature.
5. Let the Burgers Rest Before Serving: Just like a good steak, burgers benefit from a short resting period after grilling. Once you take the burgers off the grill, let them rest for 5-10 minutes loosely covered with foil before assembling. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the patty, resulting in a more tender and flavorful burger. Don’t skip this step – it’s a game-changer for burger juiciness!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Have questions about making these incredible Burgers with Blue Cheese Spread? Here are answers to some common queries to help you succeed:

Q1: Can I use a different type of cheese instead of blue cheese?

A: While blue cheese is the star of this recipe and provides a unique flavor profile, you can certainly experiment with other cheeses if you’re not a fan of blue cheese. Good alternatives include:

• Sharp Cheddar Cheese: Offers a classic burger flavor with a sharp bite.
• Gorgonzola Dolce (Sweet Gorgonzola): A milder and creamier blue cheese option for those who find strong blue cheese overpowering.
• Brie or Camembert: For a creamy and milder flavor with a slightly nutty note.
• Goat Cheese: Provides a tangy and creamy alternative with a distinct flavor.
• Pepper Jack Cheese: For a spicy kick and a creamy texture.

If you substitute, adjust the name of the recipe accordingly to reflect the cheese you’ve used!

Q2: Can I make the blue cheese spread ahead of time?

A: Absolutely! In fact, making the blue cheese spread ahead of time is highly recommended. The flavors meld and deepen as the spread sits in the refrigerator. You can prepare the blue cheese spread up to 2 days in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This makes assembling the burgers on grilling day much quicker and easier.

Q3: What if I don’t have a grill? Can I cook these burgers indoors?

A: Yes, you can definitely cook these burgers indoors! A stovetop grill pan or a heavy-bottomed skillet works perfectly. Preheat the grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat and cook the burgers as instructed in the grilling section. You can also broil the burgers in your oven. Place the patties on a baking sheet and broil on high heat, flipping halfway through, until cooked to your desired doneness. Indoor cooking methods are great alternatives when grilling outdoors isn’t possible or convenient.

Q4: Can I freeze the burger patties?

A: Yes, you can freeze the burger patties, either cooked or uncooked.

• Uncooked Patties: Place formed patties on a parchment-lined baking sheet and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. Thaw in the refrigerator before grilling.
• Cooked Patties: Allow cooked patties to cool completely. Wrap each patty individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator or microwave until heated through.

Freezing burger patties is a great way to meal prep or have burgers ready to go whenever you crave them.

Q5: What are some variations I can try with this recipe?

A: There are many ways to customize these Burgers with Blue Cheese Spread to your liking! Here are a few ideas:

• Spicy Blue Cheese Spread: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the blue cheese spread for a spicy kick.
• Caramelized Onion Blue Cheese Burgers: Incorporate caramelized onions into the burger patties or use them as a topping for added sweetness and depth.
• Mushroom and Blue Cheese Burgers: Sautéed mushrooms pair beautifully with blue cheese. Add sautéed mushrooms to the patties or use them as a topping.
• Blue Cheese and Bacon Burgers: Crispy bacon and blue cheese are a classic combination. Add crispy bacon bits to the patties or use bacon strips as a topping.
• Lamb Burgers with Blue Cheese: Substitute ground lamb for ground beef for a richer and more flavorful burger. Lamb and blue cheese are a fantastic pairing.

Don’t be afraid to get creative and experiment with different variations to find your perfect Burger with Blue Cheese Spread!

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