Caramelized Apple Burgers Recipe
Prep Time:
15 minutes
Cook Time:
20 minutes
Servings:
4 Servings
Ingredients
  • 1½ pounds ground chuck (80/20)
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 2 Honeycrisp or Gala apples, cored and thinly sliced
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • ¼ cup mayonnaise
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 4 slices smoked Gouda
  • 4 brioche buns, split
  • 2 cups arugula
Directions
  1. Divide the ground chuck into 4 portions and shape them into patties slightly wider than the buns. Season both sides with salt and pepper.
  2. Press a shallow indent in the center of each to prevent puffing during cooking. Set aside at room temperature while you make the caramelized apples.
  3. In a skillet over medium heat, combine the brown sugar and 1 tablespoon of water.
  4. Swirl the pan occasionally (do not stir) until the mixture turns deep amber, about 3 minutes.
  5. Remove the skillet from the heat and add the apple slices. Whisk in 2 tablespoons of the butter until smooth.
  6. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the apples are softened and coated in the caramel, about 6 minutes.
  7. Add the apple cider vinegar and cook for 1 minute more. Remove from the heat and set aside.
  8. In a blender, combine 2 tablespoons of the caramelized apples and the mayonnaise, and blend until smooth. Set aside.
  9. Heat a grill or cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Season with olive oil.
  10. Cook the patties for 4 to 5 minutes per side for medium, topping each with a slice of smoked Gouda during the last minute of cooking so it melts.
  11. While the patties rest, melt the remaining 1 tablespoon butter in a skillet over medium heat.
  12. Place the cut sides of the buns in the skillet and toast until golden brown, about 1 minute.
  13. Spread the apple mayonnaise on the bottom bun, then layer with arugula
  14. Top with the burger patty, and the remaining caramelized apples.
  15. Top with the bun lid. Serve immediately.