Smoky Chipotle Burger Patties

Juicy, spicy, smoky – grill-ready in 20 mins

Prep: 10 min | Cook: 10 min | Total: 20 min | Serves: 4 patties Reading time: ~2 minutes

Ingredients

Patties

• 500g (1.1 lb) ground beef (80/20 fat ratio)
• 1–2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, finely chopped (use 1 for mild, 2 for 🔥)
• 1 Tbsp adobo sauce (from the can)
• 1 small onion, grated (squeeze out excess liquid)
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• ½ tsp ground cumin
• ½ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce (optional)

For cooking

• cooking oil (for grill/pan)

Optional toppings

• Cheese, buns, lettuce, tomato, avocado, mayo

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Instructions

1. Mix the flavor bomb (5 min) In a large bowl, combine ground beef, chopped chipotle, adobo sauce, grated onion, garlic, smoked paprika, cumin, salt, pepper, and Worcestershire. Mix gently with hands—don’t overwork (keeps patties tender).
2. Shape patties (3 min) Divide into 4 equal balls. Flatten to ¾-inch thick discs. Make a slight indent in the center with your thumb (prevents puffing).
3. Chill (optional) (5–30 min) Rest in fridge for firmer patties—skip if in a rush.
4. Heat the surface (2 min) Preheat grill or cast-iron skillet to medium-high. Brush with oil.
5. Cook to perfection (8–10 min) Grill 4–5 min per side for medium (160°F/71°C internal). Add cheese in last 1 min if using.
6. Rest & serve (2 min) Let patties rest 3 min. Serve on toasted buns with toppings.

Pro Tips

• No grill? Use a hot skillet—sear 4 min/side.
• Make ahead: Freeze raw patties (with parchment between) up to 3 months.
• Veggie twist: Swap beef for ground turkey + 1 Tbsp oil.
• Chipotle heat scale: Start with 1 pepper; taste a tiny bit of filling before shaping.

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