Wanda's Stuffed Hamburger

4 servings Prep: 15 m Cook: 10 m Total: 25 m Beginner
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Wanda's Stuffed Hamburger
These are the best burgers I’ve ever eaten. My sister Wanda has been making these ground beef or turkey burgers stuffed with onions and bell peppers for as long as I can remember. My 12 year old recently had one of hers and suggested that I make them at home. I did; and we’ve agreed that Wanda’s are better.

Ingredients

4 servings
  • 1 pound ground beef or turkey
  • 1 large onion, chopped into small pieces
  • 1 bell pepper, chopped into small pieces
  • 1/2 cup bread crumbs
  • 1 tablespoon McCormick Season-all or any Cajun seasonings you prefer
  • 4 hamburger buns

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Chop onions and bell pepper into small pieces.
  2. In a large bowl, add bread crumbs and seasonings to ground meat. Add the chopped onions and bell pepper. Mix together gently using hands until well combined.
  3. Shape into 4 burger patties, about 3/4-inch thick.
  4. Grill over medium-high heat for 4-5 minutes per side, or cook in a skillet over medium heat for 5-6 minutes per side, until internal temperature reaches 160°F for beef or 165°F for turkey.
  5. Serve on hamburger buns with or without condiments. Great garnishments as pictured - spinach, grilled red onions, tomato, and avocado slices.

Common Problems and Solutions

Q: Why are my burgers falling apart?

A: Don't overmix the meat - mix just until combined. Also, let the shaped patties rest for at least an hour before cooking so the flavors meld and the patties firm up. The bread crumbs help bind everything together.

Q: Can I cook these burgers from frozen?

A: Yes, but add a few extra minutes to the cooking time. It's best to thaw them in the refrigerator overnight for even cooking.

Tips and Techniques

For best results, let the shaped patties rest in the refrigerator for at least one hour before cooking. This allows the flavors to come together and helps the burgers hold their shape on the grill or in the skillet. Don’t press down on the burgers while cooking - this squeezes out all the flavorful juices.

Ingredient Substitutions

  • ground beef: ground turkey or ground chicken
  • bread crumbs: crushed crackers or panko breadcrumbs
  • McCormick Season-all: Tony Chachere's, Slap Ya Mama, or homemade Cajun seasoning

Equipment Needed

  • Grill or large skillet
  • Mixing bowl
  • Meat thermometer