Get ready to transform your ordinary burger night into an epic culinary adventure! These Cowboy Burgers topped with crispy onion rings aren't just a meal - they're a flavor-packed journey that combines the rugged spirit of the American West with mouthwatering, juicy goodness. Imagine sinking your teeth into a perfectly grilled beef patty, glazed with tangy barbecue sauce, crowned with melted cheddar and crispy onion rings - this is comfort food that tells a delicious story with every bite!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1/2 cup barbecue sauce
- 4 slices cheddar cheese
- 4 hamburger buns
- 1 cup onion rings
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the grill or large skillet to medium-high heat, around 375-400°F.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef with salt and pepper. Gently mix without overworking the meat to maintain tenderness.
- Divide the ground beef into 4 equal portions and shape into patties approximately 3/4 inch thick. Create a small indentation in the center of each patty to prevent bulging during cooking.
- Place patties on the hot grill or skillet. Cook for 4-5 minutes on the first side, allowing a nice sear and caramelization.
- Flip the burgers and brush generously with barbecue sauce. Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes.
- During the last minute of cooking, place a slice of cheddar cheese on each patty and allow it to melt slightly.
- While burgers are cooking, prepare the onion rings by heating them in a preheated oven according to package instructions until golden and crispy.
- Toast the hamburger buns lightly on the grill or in a separate skillet for added flavor and texture.
- Remove burgers from heat and let rest for 2-3 minutes to allow juices to redistribute.
- Assemble burgers by placing each patty on a toasted bun, and top with crispy onion rings.
- Serve immediately while hot, with extra barbecue sauce on the side if desired.
Tips
- Meat Matters: Use ground beef with a fat content around 80/20 for the juiciest burgers. The fat helps keep the meat moist and flavorful.
- Don't Overwork the Meat: Mix ingredients gently and form patties with a light touch to keep the burger tender.
- The Indentation Trick: Create a small dimple in the center of each patty to prevent it from puffing up and ensure even cooking.
- Temperature is Key: Use a meat thermometer to ensure your burger reaches 160°F for food safety while maintaining maximum juiciness.
- Let It Rest: Always allow burgers to rest 2-3 minutes after cooking to redistribute those delicious internal juices.
- Crispy Onion Ring Hack: For extra crunch, try briefly broiling store-bought onion rings for that perfect golden finish.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 631kcal
Carbohydrates: 41g
Protein: 34g
Fat: 35g
Saturated Fat: 14g
Cholesterol: 100mg
