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Two Awesome Burger Recipes You Can Make In A Skillet

When you're craving a good burger, nothing quite hits the spot like a juicy one from your favorite burger restaurant. But have you ever wished you could make amazing, restaurant-quality burgers in your own kitchen? You can -- and you don't even need a grill. Here are two recipes to get you started.

Smoked Bacon Burger

Ingredients (for four burgers):

  • 1 pound ground beef (80% lean works best)
  • 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1 egg
  • 1 tablespoon liquid smoke
  • 4 slices bacon: cooked, cooled, and crumbled
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder

Combine all of the ingredients in a large bowl, and use your fingers to mix them together. Make sure the seasonings are evenly distributed throughout the meat. Then, divide the mixture into four even portions, and shape each into a patty. Aim to make your patties about 3/4 inch thick.

Heat a skillet over medium heat, and add a small drizzle of vegetable oil to the pan. Add your burgers, and cook for approximately 4 minutes per side for medium or 5 minutes per side for medium-well. Remove the burgers from the skillet and briefly place them on a paper towel to drain.

These burgers are excellent served in ciabatta rolls, topped with more bacon, smoked gouda cheese, and thinly sliced tomato. You can even wrap them in lettuce for a lower-carb option.

Ranch and Onion Burger

Ingredients (for four burgers):

  • 1 pound ground beef (80% lean works best)
  • 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1 egg
  • 1 packet ranch dressing mix
  • 1 medium onion, chopped finely
  • 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper

Heat a little canola or vegetable oil in a skillet, and add the onions. Saute over low heat until they are tender and beginning to brown. Let the onions cool.

Combine all of the ingredients, including the onions, in a mixing bowl. Use your hands to mix the ingredients together. Then, divide the meat into quarters. Shape each into a patty.

Drizzle a little more oil into the skillet. (You can use the same one from the onions). Add the burgers to the pan once the oil is hot, and then cook them over medium heat for 4 - 5 minutes per side, depending on desired doneness. 

These burgers are excellent when served on a soft, whole wheat bun with some havarti cheese, pickles, and a little more ranch dressing. For more information, contact companies like Balls Out Burger.


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