Tired of the same old burgers? Craving something hearty, flavorful, and surprisingly easy to make? Then get ready to fall in love with these juicy meatloaf burgers! They combine the comforting goodness of classic meatloaf with the fun and ease of a burger, creating a delicious and satisfying meal the whole family will adore. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a casual weekend gathering. Get ready to elevate your burger game!
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend recommended)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (panko recommended for extra crispness)
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 large egg, lightly beaten
- 1/2 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Burger buns
- Your favorite burger toppings (lettuce, tomato, onion, cheese, pickles, etc.)
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Meatloaf Mixture
In a large bowl, gently combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, onion, garlic, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, oregano, salt, and pepper. Avoid overmixing, as this can result in tough burgers. Mix just until the ingredients are evenly distributed.
Step 2: Form the Patties
Shape the meat mixture into 4 equal-sized patties, slightly larger than your burger buns. Make a small indentation in the center of each patty to prevent them from bulging during cooking.
Step 3: Cook the Burgers
Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat. Add a little oil to prevent sticking. Cook the burgers for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until they are cooked through and nicely browned. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
Step 4: Assemble Your Burgers
Toast your burger buns lightly if desired. Place the cooked patties on the bottom buns and top with your favorite fixings. Add the top buns and enjoy!
Cooking Tips for Perfect Meatloaf Burgers:
- Don't overmix the meat: Overmixing develops the gluten in the breadcrumbs, resulting in tough burgers. Gentle mixing is key!
- Adjust seasoning to your taste: Feel free to add more or less of any spice to suit your preference. A dash of hot sauce adds a nice kick!
- Use a meat thermometer: This is the best way to ensure your burgers are cooked to a safe internal temperature.
- Let the patties rest: Allow the cooked burgers to rest for a few minutes before assembling them. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful burger.
Variations:
- Add cheese: Sprinkle shredded cheddar, Monterey Jack, or your favorite cheese on top of the patties during the last few minutes of cooking.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce to the meat mixture for a spicy kick.
- Use different breadcrumbs: Experiment with different types of breadcrumbs, such as Italian-seasoned breadcrumbs or gluten-free breadcrumbs.
- Add vegetables: Incorporate finely chopped mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini into the meat mixture for added flavor and nutrients.
Nutritional Information (per burger, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: Approximately 25-30g
- Fat: Approximately 20-25g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 15-20g
These meatloaf burgers are a fantastic example of delicious and easy food recipes, perfect for healthy meals and quick dinner ideas. Homemade cooking doesn't get much simpler or more satisfying than this! Enjoy!