New Mexico Green Chile Cheeseburger
A beloved regional specialty featuring a juicy beef patty smothered in roasted New Mexico green chiles and melted cheese, often served on a toasted bun.
🧂 Ingredients
- 1.5 lb Ground beef(80/20 lean-to-fat ratio)
- 1 cup New Mexico green chiles(roasted, peeled, and chopped)
- 4 slices Cheddar cheese(or Monterey Jack)
- 4 each Hamburger buns
- 1 tsp Salt
- 1/2 tsp Black pepper
- 1 tbsp Butter or oil(for cooking)
- as needed Optional toppings(lettuce, tomato, onion, mayonnaise)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Gently form the ground beef into four equal patties, about 3/4-inch thick. Season generously with salt and pepper. Do not overwork the meat.
💡 Tip: Make a slight indentation in the center of each patty to prevent them from puffing up. - 2
If your green chiles are not already roasted, roast them over an open flame (gas stove or grill) until the skin is blackened and blistered. Place in a bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let steam for 10-15 minutes. Peel, remove seeds and membranes, then chop.
💡 Tip: Wear gloves when handling chiles to avoid irritation. - 3
Heat butter or oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook patties for 3-4 minutes per side for medium-rare, or to your desired doneness.
💡 Tip: Avoid pressing down on the patties while cooking, as this squeezes out the juices. - 4
During the last minute of cooking, top each patty with a generous amount of roasted green chiles and a slice of cheese. Cover the skillet briefly to melt the cheese.
- 5
While the burgers are cooking, lightly toast the hamburger buns in the same skillet or on a griddle.
- 6
Assemble the burgers: place a cheesy, chile-topped patty on the bottom half of each toasted bun. Add any desired optional toppings.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Use fresh, roasted New Mexico green chiles for the most authentic flavor.
- ✓Don't overcook the burgers; a juicy patty is essential.
- ✓The quality of the cheese matters; a good melting cheese like Monterey Jack or a sharp cheddar works well.
🔄 Variations
- Add a dollop of sour cream or a drizzle of crema on top.
- Incorporate a pinch of cumin into the burger mixture.