Juicy Applewood BBQ Burgers for Ultimate Satisfaction
Attention all burger lovers and BBQ enthusiasts! Do you crave a juicy and flavorful burger that will take your taste buds on a smoky, savory journey? Look no further than my Applewood BBQ Burgers Recipe!
As an assistant for a BBQ chef, I can confidently say that this recipe is a must-try for anyone who enjoys the mouthwatering taste of applewood smoked bacon, the subtle heat of chipotle peppers, and the tangy zing of barbecue sauce. You’ll get all of these flavors packed into every bite of these burgers.
The secret to making these burgers so irresistible is in the seasoning mix. McCormick Grill Mates Smoky Applewood Seasoning Mix brings out the best and boldest flavors from each ingredient. This smoky seasoning blend is made with natural spices like smoked salt, paprika, and garlic. It’s the perfect combination to complement lean ground beef, making every bite special.
So whether you’re in the mood for an amazing smoked applewood bacon burger or bbq pulled beef burger sliders, this recipe has got you covered. It’s perfect for any summer backyard grill session, family gatherings, or just a fun night with friends. Make sure to follow my instructions carefully to achieve perfect results every time.
Are you ready to take your burgers to the next level? Let’s jump in!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Have you been searching for a burger recipe that will blow your taste buds away? Look no further, my friend, because these Applewood BBQ Burgers are the answer to your cravings! Trust me when I say, this burger recipe will change the way you think about backyard barbeques forever.
Firstly, the key to any good burger is in the seasoning, and McCormick Grill Mates Smoky Applewood rub does not disappoint. This blend of spices gives the burgers a perfectly balanced smoky flavor with just a hint of sweetness from the applewood bacon and molasses barbecue sauce. You’ll want to savor every last bite!
Secondly, these burgers are made with lean ground beef and topped with fresh ingredients like red bell pepper, onion, and Merkts sharp cheddar cheese. The flavors and textures of these toppings perfectly complement the smoky applewood flavor of the burger.
Finally, these burgers are versatile enough to suit almost any dietary preference. Looking for a low-carb option? Simply ditch the bun and enjoy your burger on top of a bed of greens instead! Want to create bite-sized burger sliders for your next party? Just reduce the size of your patties and serve them up on a platter.
So whether you’re a seasoned grill master or just starting out in the world of outdoor cooking, these Applewood BBQ Burgers are an easy and delicious way to impress your friends and family at your next cookout. Don’t be shy – fire up the grill today!
Ingredient List
Ingredients for Your Smoky Applewood BBQ Burgers
To make the Applewood BBQ Burgers you need:
- 1 lb. of lean ground beef
- 4 slices of thick-cut applewood smoked bacon
- 2 tbsp. of McCormick Grill Mates Smoky Applewood seasoning mix
- 1 onion
- 1 red bell pepper
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup of barbecue sauce
Note: You can find these ingredients at your local grocery store or butcher.
Make sure you select lean ground beef to avoid having a greasy burger. Thick-cut applewood smoked bacon will give an excellent texture and flavor to the burgers, and McCormick Grill Mates Smoky Applewood seasoning mix brings extra smoky flavor. Onion and red pepper are essential ingredients that add a touch of natural sweetness and crunch to your burgers. Salt and pepper can enhance the taste of the burgers. Lastly, Don’t forget to get your favorite barbecue sauce; it will complement the burgers’ flavor impeccably!
The Recipe How-To
Now that you have all the ingredients ready, it’s time to get your hands dirty and start making these delicious Applewood BBQ Burgers.
Preparation
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Begin by mixing 1lb of ground beef and 1 tablespoon of McCormick Grill Mates Smoky Applewood Seasoning Mix in a large bowl until well blended. You can also use any other desired beef rub, but Smoky Applewood Seasoning Mix is highly recommended for this recipe.
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Shape the blended mixture into 4 patties, making sure they are not too thick or too thin.
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Sprinkle some smoked salt and black pepper on each side of the patties to add some extra flavor to your burgers.
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Place them on the grill over medium heat – approximately 350°F – for around 4-6 minutes per side.
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Once they are cooked to your preference, remove them from the grill and place them onto a plate.
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Allow to rest for a few minutes while you prepare the toppings and buns.
Toppings
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Fry up some crispy applewood smoked bacon in a pan, then use scissors or a knife to chop it into small pieces.
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Cut up half a red bell pepper and half an onion into thin slices.
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In a mixing bowl add 3 tablespoons of bbq sauce, 2 tablespoons of chopped applewood bacon, and 1 teaspoon of the leftover McCormick Grill Mates Smoky Applewood Seasoning Mix. Mix well until everything is combined into this bloody delicious sauce!
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Finally, shred 1/2 cup of Merkts sharp cheddar cheese using a grater.
Assembling
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Take a bun and spread a spoonful of the applewood barbecue sauce on the bottom layer
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Add some shredded cheddar cheese on top of the sauce
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Place one grilled applewood smoked burger patty on top
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Add some more barbecue sauce
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Sprinkle some chopped applewood smoked bacon on top
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Add some thinly sliced red bell pepper and onions
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Put the top layer of bun on top
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Stick in a toothpick through each burger slider to hold all this goodness together!
Serve hot with chips or fries!
With this recipe, you can create savory, juicy, smoky Applewood BBQ Burgers with minimum fuss and maximum flavor!
Substitutions and Variations
Are you a creative culinary explorer that likes to add your own touch to every recipe? Then you’ll enjoy our Substitutions and Variations section where we share different ways to tailor this recipe to suit your preferences.
If you don’t have applewood smoked bacon on hand, don’t panic. You can always substitute it with crispy regular bacon, or turkey bacon. If you prefer something meatless, you can swap the ground beef for Beyond Meat or any plant-based meat alternatives. You could also use lean ground turkey or chicken, which will give you a burger with a milder flavor but still plenty of umami goodness.
If you find that the McCormick Grill Mates Smoky Applewood seasoning mix is too smoky for your taste, try using half the amount in the recipe or just skip it entirely. You could also experiment with different flavors of seasoning mixes from McCormick Grill Mates, like Steakhouse Burgers Seasoning Mix, Beef Rub, or any other of their BBQ seasoning blends.
Do you crave more heat? Add chipotle peppers into the beef mixture or on top of the burger after grilling, and you will end up with a spicy and smoky treat. If smokiness and barbeque sauce are not enough to tantalize your taste buds, make a delicious BBQ Bacon Burger by adding barbecue sauce to the meat blend before shaping patties. You could also add some merkts sharp cheddar cheese or caramelized onions for a mouthwatering result.
Lastly, if you’re planning a backyard party and want finger food instead of full-sized burgers, try making mini-burger sliders by reducing the size of the patties and placing them on top of toasted brioche buns with some BBQ sauce on top.
Remember, cooking should be about exploration and creativity. Don’t be afraid to change things up!
Serving and Pairing
Once you’ve cooked up a batch of these applewood BBQ burgers, it’s time to dish them out and enjoy. There are plenty of delicious sides you can serve alongside your burgers – from crisp, tangy pickles to buttery brioche buns. Here are a few pairing suggestions to get you started:
First and foremost, make sure you’ve got a great bun on hand. I recommend a brioche or pretzel bun for added texture and flavor. Toast the bun lightly on the grill for an extra crispy touch.
Next, consider adding some toppings to your burger. My personal favorites include caramelized onions, crispy bacon, sharp cheddar cheese, and creamy avocado. If spice is your thing, try topping your burger with sliced jalapenos or a drizzle of hot sauce.
For sides, opt for classic BBQ staples like corn on the cob, potato salad, or grilled veggies. For something lighter, try serving your burger alongside a fresh green salad or a bowl of juicy watermelon.
As for drinks, nothing pairs better with a juicy burger than an ice-cold beer. Crack open a cold one and enjoy the refreshing taste alongside every savory bite.
Overall, the possibilities are endless when it comes to serving and pairing these applewood BBQ burgers. Don’t be afraid to get creative and customize your meal to your personal tastes – whether that means piling on extra toppings or switching up your sides altogether.
Make-Ahead, Storing and Reheating
Once you have cooked your Applewood BBQ Burgers to perfection, it is important to know how to store and reheat them properly.
If you want to make the burgers ahead of time, shape the patties and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours. If you need to refrigerate them for longer, wrap each patty individually in plastic wrap and place them in a resealable freezer bag. These patties can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months.
To reheat your burgers, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the burgers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 10-15 minutes, or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
You can also reheat your burgers on the grill or stovetop. To do this, heat a skillet over medium heat and add the burger patties. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side or until heated through. You could also use a grill pan or a sandwich press in place of a skillet.
If you have leftover burger patties, they make great ingredients for other dishes like salads, sandwiches or breakfast dishes. Just make sure you refrigerate or freeze them properly depending on when you plan on using them again.
Overall, it’s best to store any leftover meat in an airtight container or wrapped tightly in plastic wrap to prevent freezer burn or contamination. Properly stored applewood bbq burgers with bacon have a flavorful smokiness that holds up well during storage and reheating, maintaining their juicy taste and satisfying texture each time they’re consumed!
Tips for Perfect Results
One of the keys to making the perfect Applewood BBQ Burger is to ensure that each ingredient is used properly, and each patty is cooked correctly. These tips will help you create juicy, flavorful burgers that are sure to be a hit at your next backyard party.
First, use lean ground beef for your burgers. While it may be tempting to use fattier cuts of meat, lean beef will help your burgers hold their shape and cook evenly on the grill. I recommend using a mixture of 85% lean ground beef and 15% ground pork for optimal texture and flavor.
When mixing your ingredients, be sure to use a light hand and do not overwork the meat. Overmixing can lead to tough, dry burgers. Simply mix the ingredients until they are just blended and then shape them into patties.
To ensure even cooking, create an indentation in the center of each patty with your thumb. As the meat cooks, it will expand outward, ensuring that each burger cooks evenly. Using a meat thermometer is also recommended to ensure proper cooking temperature; cook the patties until they reach an internal temperature of 160 degrees Fahrenheit.
Another tip for incredible flavor is to mix in some Applewood smoked bacon with your beef before grilling. The smoky flavor adds depth and complexity to each bite. Additionally, try brushing your burgers with a thin layer of your favorite barbecue sauce during the final few minutes of cooking for an extra kick of flavor.
When serving your burgers, don’t skimp on delicious toppings! I highly recommend adding Merkts Sharp Cheddar Cheese, grilled red bell pepper slices, and sautéed onions for a tasty combination.
With these tips in mind, you’ll be able to enjoy perfectly cooked Applewood BBQ Burgers every time you fire up the grill.
FAQ
As you prepare to fire up the grill and cook these incredibly delicious Applewood BBQ Burgers, you may have some questions about the recipe. To help you get the most out of this delicious dish, I have put together a list of frequently asked questions and answers that address common concerns and inquiries that may arise while preparing or serving these burgers. Read on for more information!
What is the secret to juicy hamburgers?
When preparing your burgers, it’s important to keep the meat cold until it’s time to cook to avoid any potential health hazards. As you shape your patties, take care not to overwork the meat, as this can make the burgers dense and tough. One way to achieve uniform patties is by using a burger mold or a lid. Once the patties are on the grill, try to resist the urge to constantly move them around. This can result in uneven cooking and a less than desirable texture. Finally, don’t forget to add your favorite sauce to bring out the flavors and create a delicious final product.
How do you get the smoky flavor in burgers?
When it comes to using smoked salt, it’s best to save it for when you want a finishing touch. For instance, if you’re making hamburgers or pasta, sprinkle a little smoked salt on top. However, be cautious about adding it to large dishes, like whole pots of soup, as it can quickly oversalt the dish, masking the smoky aroma. Keep in mind that less is more when it comes to smoked salt.
How do you make the perfect BBQ burger?
One of the most important steps in preparing a burger patty for grilling is to generously season it with salt and pepper on both sides. Once seasoned, place the patties on the grill grates and cook them without covering the grill. The cooking time will depend on how well done you prefer your burgers, but generally it should take 3 to 5 minutes per side. If you plan to make cheeseburgers, wait until the last minute of cooking to add the cheese, and then cover the grill to help it melt. This will keep the cheese from running off the patty and create a delicious, gooey layer on top of your burger.
What is Applewood burger?
Prepare to savor the savory taste of juicy British beef burgers infused with the delectable blend of smoky applewood sauce. Enhance the flavor experience by pairing it with the slight sweetness of a fresh brioche bun.
Bottom Line
In conclusion, if you want to impress your friends and family with a delicious and smoky BBQ burger, look no further than this Applewood BBQ Burger recipe. With its combination of lean ground beef, McCormick Grill Mates seasoning, smoked applewood bacon and barbecue sauce, these burgers are sure to be a hit at your next backyard BBQ. And with the option to customize the recipe with your favorite toppings or substitutions, you can make these burgers truly your own.
So why settle for a plain old burger when you can elevate it with the bold flavor of applewood smoked goodness? Give this recipe a try and see for yourself why it’s quickly becoming one of my favorites. Happy grilling!
Applewood BBQ Burgers Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 1 (7/8 ounce) package McCormick® Grill Mates® Smoky Applewood Steakhouse Burgers Seasoning Mix
- 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
- 1 small red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 4 hamburger buns
- 1/4 cup barbecue sauce
Instructions
- MIX ground beef and Seasoning Mix until well blended. Shape into 4 patties.
- GRILL over medium heat 4 to 6 minutes per side or until burgers are cooked through (internal temperature of 160ºF). Grill onion and bell pepper in grill basket or grill rack 3 to 4 minutes or until tender and lightly browned, stirring frequently.
- SERVE burgers on rolls topped with grilled onions, bell peppers and barbecue sauce.
YOUR OWN NOTE
Nutrition
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Shara @The Bird BBQ
Shara loves to experiment with different flavors and techniques when it comes to BBQ. She has been perfecting her craft for years and loves hosting backyard BBQs with friends & family. She often comes up with creative recipes that her guests rave about.