Ted's Pepper Jack Burgers!

4 servings Prep: 10 m Cook: 15 m Total: 25 m Beginner
5.0/5 (2)
Ted 's Pepper Jack Burgers!
Ted 's Pepper Jack Burgers!
Ted’s secret to these juicy Cajun-spiced pepper jack burgers? A splash of Coca-Cola in the meat mixture and poking a hole in the center of each patty with your pinky so they don’t puff up like flying saucers when cooked. Made with ground chuck, minced onion, celery seed, and a kick of Tabasco and Tony’s seasoning, these burgers are ready in about 25 minutes.

Ingredients

4 servings
  • 1 1/2 pound ground chuck sirloin
  • 1 small onion minced fine
  • 1/2 tsp celery seed (not salt)
  • 1/2 can Coca-cola
  • dash of Worcestershire
  • Tabasco to taste
  • Tony's seasoning or Cajun Seasoning to taste
  • 1 large egg
  • 1/4 cup Italian bread crumbs
  • 4 thick slices Pepper Jack cheese

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Combine all but cheese.
  2. Make into 4 patties and poke a hole with your pinky through center of patties so they don’t plump up in middle.
  3. Cook in a little olive oil to the degree of done that you like. Top with cheese slices, tomato, and ketchup or bar-b-que sauce.

Tips and Techniques

The pinky-hole technique is key—it prevents the burgers from puffing up into a dome shape during cooking, keeping them flat and even for better bun fit and more consistent cooking.

Ingredient Substitutions

  • ground chuck sirloin: ground beef (80/20) or ground turkey
  • Pepper Jack cheese: sharp cheddar, Monterey Jack, or American cheese
  • Coca-Cola: beer or beef broth

Equipment Needed

  • Large skillet or cast iron skillet
  • Mixing bowl