This Cheesy Poblano Popper Burger is a tasty treat! It features a juicy burger topped with creamy cheese, roasted poblano peppers, and crispy bacon. Yum!
You won’t just enjoy the burger; the toppings are where the magic happens! I love serving these with some chips on the side for a fun meal. Who can resist cheesy goodness? 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: Using 80/20 ground beef keeps the burger juicy due to the fat content. If you prefer leaner beef, go for 90/10, but expect a slightly drier burger. Turkey or plant-based substitutes can also work well!
Brioche Buns: Brioche adds a touch of sweetness and softness. If you can’t find brioche, regular hamburger buns or even whole wheat buns are great alternatives. Just toast them for added texture!
Poblano Peppers: These peppers give a nice smoky flavor. If you can’t find them, try using green bell peppers or jalapeños for a spicier kick, but be mindful of the heat level!
Cheeses: I love sharp cheddar for its strong flavor that pairs perfectly with the cream cheese. You can swap it with Monterey Jack or pepper jack for added spice and creaminess.
What’s the Best Way to Roast Poblano Peppers?
Roasting poblanos brings out their sweetness and smoky flavor. Here’s how to do it perfectly:
- Use an open flame on your stovetop or broil them in the oven. Turn the peppers until the skin is blackened (about 5-7 minutes).
- To steam them, place the hot peppers in a sealed bag for 10 minutes. This makes peeling easier.
- Once cool, carefully peel off the skin, remove the seeds and stems, and they’re ready for your burger!
Taking the time to roast adds amazing flavor to your burger and is super easy too! Enjoy the process!
Cheesy Poblano Popper Burger
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb ground beef (preferably 80/20 for juiciness)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 4 brioche or sandwich buns
- 3 tbsp cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 2 poblano peppers
- 1 tbsp olive oil or vegetable oil
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious burger recipe takes about 30 minutes from start to finish. You’ll spend around 10 minutes prepping and 20 minutes cooking, including roasting the peppers. It’s a quick and rewarding recipe that’s perfect for any occasion!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Roast the Poblanos:
First, roast your poblanos! Place the peppers over an open flame on your gas stove or under a broiler. Keep an eye on them and turn occasionally until the skin is all charred and blistered (this should take about 5-7 minutes). Once done, put them in a paper bag or cover a bowl with plastic wrap to steam for 10 minutes. This helps the skin come off easily. After they cool down a bit, peel off the charred skin, remove the stems and seeds, and set them aside.
2. Prepare the Cheese Topping:
In a small bowl, mix together the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, chopped cilantro (if using), and minced garlic until everything is well combined. This creamy mixture is what will make your burger extra special!
3. Form the Patties:
Now, let’s make the burger patties! Divide the ground beef into 4 equal portions. Gently shape each portion into a slightly flattened patty. Don’t forget to season both sides with salt and pepper to enhance the flavor!
4. Cook the Burgers:
Heat a grill or skillet over medium-high heat and add a little oil to prevent sticking. Cook the patties for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until they reach your preferred level of doneness. Juicy and flavorful!
5. Add Cheesy Topping:
In the last 2 minutes of cooking, generously spread your cheese mixture on top of each burger. Cover the grill or pan briefly to help the cheese melt and become a little golden. Mmm!
6. Toast the Buns:
While the cheese is melting, lightly toast your buns on the grill or in a pan until they are golden brown. This adds a nice crunch to each bite!
7. Assemble the Burgers:
Now it’s time to put everything together! Place each burger patty on the bottom half of a bun. Top it off with a roasted poblano pepper (feel free to fold it if it’s too big), and then cap it all with the top bun.
8. Serve Immediately:
Enjoy your delicious cheesy poblano popper burger while it’s warm! It pairs perfectly with some fries or a crisp salad for a complete meal. Dig in and savor the flavors!
This recipe creates a juicy beef burger topped with a creamy, cheesy jalapeño popper-style topping and smoky roasted poblanos, all nestled in a soft bun. Perfect for a flavorful and slightly spicy burger experience!
FAQ
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great lean alternative. Just keep in mind that turkey can dry out more easily than beef, so you might want to incorporate some additional fat, like olive oil, into the meat mixture for moisture.
What If I Can’t Find Poblano Peppers?
No worries! If you can’t find poblanos, you can use green bell peppers for a milder taste, or jalapeños if you’re looking for some extra heat. Just adjust based on your spice preference!
Can I Prepare the Burger Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can form the patties and prepare the cheese mixture up to a day in advance. Keep everything wrapped tightly in the fridge. Just cook them fresh when you’re ready to enjoy!
How Should I Store Leftover Burgers?
If you have leftovers, store the assembled burgers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat them in the oven or on the stovetop to warm and crisp up before serving again.
