Southern BBQ Burger

If you’re looking for a burger that embodies the essence of Southern comfort food, then look no further than the Southern BBQ Burger. This mouthwatering creation combines the rich flavors of ground chuck, melty American cheese, and the smoky goodness of pastrami, all topped off with crispy onion rings and a side of baked beans. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or just looking to elevate your weeknight dinner, this burger will have everyone coming back for seconds.

Why This Southern BBQ Burger Stands Out

The Southern BBQ Burger is not your average burger. What sets it apart is the harmonious blend of flavors and textures that come together in each bite. The juicy ground chuck, seasoned simply with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, provides a robust base. The addition of American cheese gives it that classic, creamy richness, while the pastrami adds a delightful smoky flavor that is hard to resist. And let’s not forget the crispy onion rings which provide the perfect crunch, all layered on a toasted bun. When paired with a side of BUSHS Southern Style Baked Beans, this burger becomes an indulgent experience that captures the spirit of Southern cooking.

What to Buy

To create the perfect Southern BBQ Burger, make sure you gather the following ingredients:

• 1 ½ pounds ground chuck (80 percent lean)
• Kosher salt
• Freshly ground black pepper
• 1 ½ tablespoons canola oil
• 4 slices American cheese
• 4 hamburger buns, split and toasted
• Lettuce and tomato for topping
• 12 slices pastrami
• 1 cup BUSHS Southern Style Baked Beans
• 6-8 onion rings

Equipment at a Glance

• Grill or stovetop skillet: For cooking the burgers to perfection.
• Spatula: To flip the burgers and manage the cooking process.
• Meat thermometer: To ensure your burgers are cooked to the right temperature.
• Serving platter: For an impressive presentation.
• Small saucepan: For heating the baked beans.

Method: Southern BBQ Burger

Step 1: Prepare the Burger Patties

Start by placing the ground chuck in a large bowl. Season it generously with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. Use your hands to gently mix the meat and seasoning, being careful not to overwork it. Divide the mixture into four equal portions and shape them into patties, making a slight indentation in the center of each patty to help them cook evenly.

Step 2: Heat the Grill or Skillet

Preheat your grill or skillet over medium-high heat. Add the canola oil to the skillet if you’re using one, allowing it to heat up until shimmering. If you’re grilling, don’t add oil; the natural fat from the chuck will keep the burgers from sticking.

Step 3: Cook the Burgers

Place the burger patties on the grill or skillet. Cook for about 4-5 minutes on one side without moving them. This helps to create a beautiful sear. Flip the burgers and place a slice of American cheese on each patty. Cook for an additional 4-5 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F for medium doneness.

Step 4: Toast the Buns

During the last minute of cooking, place the split hamburger buns on the grill or in the skillet to toast them lightly. This adds a wonderful crunch and prevents them from becoming soggy once the burger is assembled.

Step 5: Assemble the Burger

Once the burgers are cooked and the cheese is melted, it’s time to assemble. Start with the bottom bun, add a generous layer of lettuce, followed by the burger patty with melted cheese. Top with slices of pastrami, fresh tomato, and crispy onion rings. Finish with the top bun.

Step 6: Serve with Southern Style Baked Beans

Heat the BUSHS Southern Style Baked Beans in a small saucepan over medium heat until warmed through. Serve alongside your Southern BBQ Burger for a classic Southern experience.

Seasonal Flavor Boosts

To elevate your Southern BBQ Burger even further, consider adding one or more of these seasonal flavor boosts:

• Grilled Pineapple: Add a slice of grilled pineapple for a sweet and tangy contrast.
• Spicy BBQ Sauce: Drizzle some spicy BBQ sauce on top for an extra kick.
• Pickled Jalapeños: For those who love heat, add pickled jalapeños for a spicy crunch.
• Avocado: Creamy avocado slices can add a rich texture to the burger.

Don’t Do This

When making your Southern BBQ Burger, avoid these common pitfalls:

• Don’t overwork the meat: Mixing too much can lead to tough burgers.
• Don’t skip the indentation: This helps the burgers cook evenly and prevents them from puffing up.
• Don’t rush the cooking process: Let the burgers develop a good sear; flipping them too soon can cause sticking and loss of juices.
• Don’t forget to toast the buns: A toasted bun adds important texture and flavor to your burger.

Cooling, Storing & Rewarming

If you have leftovers, here’s how to properly cool, store, and rewarm your Southern BBQ Burger:

• Cooling: Allow the burgers to cool to room temperature before storing.
• Storing: Place the burgers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
• Rewarming: Reheat burgers in a skillet over medium heat for 3-4 minutes per side, or until heated through. You can also use the microwave, but this may change the texture.

Your Questions, Answered

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Absolutely! While American cheese adds a classic touch, feel free to experiment with cheddar, pepper jack, or even blue cheese for a different flavor profile.

What can I substitute for pastrami?

If you prefer a different meat, smoked turkey or even crispy bacon can work wonderfully as a substitute for pastrami.

How can I make this burger more healthy?

Consider using leaner ground turkey or chicken, adding more veggies like avocado or grilled peppers, or serving the burger in a lettuce wrap instead of a bun.

Can I grill these burgers ahead of time?

Yes! You can grill the burgers ahead of time and store them in the fridge. Just reheat before serving, and they’ll still be delicious!

Explore More

If you love this Southern BBQ Burger, consider trying these delicious recipes:

• Sally’s Baking Addiction for dessert ideas.
• Pinch of Yum for more hearty meals.
• Minimalist Baker for quick and easy recipes.
• Food Network for a variety of cooking tips and tricks.

The Last Word

Creating the perfect Southern BBQ Burger is all about balancing flavors and textures. With juicy ground chuck, smoky pastrami, and the delightful crunch of onion rings, this burger is sure to impress. Don’t forget to pair it with BUSHS Southern Style Baked Beans for that ultimate Southern flair. Whether it’s a sunny day outside or a cozy evening indoors, this burger is a timeless classic that everyone will love. So fire up that grill, gather your ingredients, and get ready to savor every bite of this delicious Southern BBQ Burger!