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Flavorful Hatch Green Chile Smash Burgers with Cheddar and Fresh Toppings

Hatch green chile smash burgers - featured image
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These smoky, slightly spicy Hatch green chile smash burgers with melty cheddar and fresh toppings offer a quick, easy, and flavorful twist on classic burgers, perfect for casual gatherings or weeknight dinners.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb (450 g) ground beef (80/20 blend)
  • 2–3 tablespoons roasted Hatch green chiles, chopped
  • 4 slices sharp cheddar cheese
  • 4 burger buns (preferably brioche or potato)
  • Thinly sliced red onion
  • Sliced ripe tomato
  • 4 crisp lettuce leaves (Romaine or Iceberg)
  • 2 tablespoons mayonnaise (optional)
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 1 tablespoon vegetable or neutral oil

Instructions

  1. In a mixing bowl, gently combine ground beef with chopped roasted Hatch green chiles. Season lightly with salt and pepper, being careful not to overwork the meat.
  2. Heat vegetable oil in a flat griddle or cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering but not smoking.
  3. Divide the beef mixture into 4 equal portions (about 4 oz / 113 g each) and loosely roll into balls without compressing.
  4. Place one ball on the hot pan and press down immediately with a spatula, applying firm, even pressure to form a thin patty about 1/4 inch thick. Hold for 10-15 seconds to maintain shape.
  5. Cook the patties undisturbed for 2-3 minutes until edges are brown and crisp.
  6. Flip each patty carefully, place a slice of sharp cheddar on top, and cook another 1-2 minutes until cheese melts and patties are cooked through (medium doneness recommended).
  7. Toast the burger buns cut-side down on the pan until golden and slightly crispy.
  8. Spread mayonnaise on the bottom bun (optional), add the patty with melted cheddar, then layer on lettuce, tomato slices, and red onion. Top with the other bun half.
  9. Serve immediately while the cheese is melty and the bun is warm.

Notes

Do not overmix the beef to keep patties tender. Use a hot pan for a crispy crust and avoid pressing the patties after the initial smash to retain juiciness. Toast buns to prevent sogginess. If burgers stick, wait a few seconds before flipping. Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 2 days and reheated gently in a skillet to preserve crust and melty cheese.

Nutrition

Keywords: Hatch green chile, smash burgers, cheddar cheese, quick dinner, smoky burgers, easy recipe, backyard barbecue, comfort food

Find it online: https://nanarecipes.info/flavorful-hatch-green-chile-smash-burgers-recipe-with-cheddar-and-fresh-toppings-made-easy/