This Cheesy Poblano Popper Burger is a fun twist on your favorite burger! It’s juicy beef topped with roasted poblano peppers, cream cheese, and melty cheddar for a flavor explosion.
Who can resist the combo of creamy, spicy, and cheesy goodness? I love making these for weekend cookouts. Trust me, they disappear faster than you can say “yum!” 🍔
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I recommend using an 80/20 beef blend for the perfect balance of flavor and juiciness. If you prefer a leaner option, ground turkey or chicken can work, but they might be less juicy.
Poblano Peppers: These are mild but richly flavored. If you want more heat, try jalapeños instead! Roasting enhances their sweetness, so don’t skip that step.
Cream Cheese: This is key to that creamy texture. You can substitute with ricotta or goat cheese if you want something different; just note that the flavor will change slightly.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar adds great flavor. If you’re not a fan, feel free to use Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack for a spicy kick!
Buns: Brioche buns are soft and buttery, but you can use whole wheat or gluten-free buns if desired. They will still taste great!
How to Roast Poblano Peppers Perfectly?
Roasting poblanos intensifies their flavor and softens their skin. Here’s a simple way to do it:
- Preheat your broiler or grill to high heat.
- Coat the peppers with olive oil for even cooking and to prevent sticking.
- Place them under the broiler or on the grill, turning every few minutes until the skin is charred and blistered—this usually takes about 8-10 minutes.
- To peel easily, let them steam in a bowl covered in plastic wrap or in a sealed bag for about 10 minutes.
Peeling is important, as the charred skin can taste bitter if left on. Enjoy this step for the best flavor!
How to Ensure Your Burgers are Juicy and Tender?
Making stuffed burgers can be tricky, so here are some tips:
- Don’t overwork the meat when forming patties. Gently shape the beef into 4 balls and flatten them without squishing too much.
- Pinch the edges of the patties firmly to seal in the cheese. If any cheese leaks out while cooking, that’s okay, it adds flavor!
- Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness at 160°F for beef; this helps avoid overcooking.
With these tips, you’re sure to have perfect, juicy Cheesy Poblano Popper Burgers every time!
How to Make a Cheesy Poblano Popper Burger
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Burger:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend for juiciness)
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 4 burger buns, preferably brioche or soft sandwich buns
- 1 tbsp olive oil (for roasting peppers)
- Optional: mayonnaise or chipotle mayo for spreading
For the Poblano Peppers:
- 2 large poblano peppers
Time Needed:
This delicious recipe will take about 30 minutes total: around 10 minutes for prep (roasting and mixing) and 20 minutes for cooking. This means you’ll be enjoying these mouthwatering burgers in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Roast the Poblano Peppers:
Start by preheating your oven’s broiler or your grill. Lightly coat the poblano peppers with olive oil. Place them under the broiler or on the grill rack and roast, turning occasionally, until the skins are charred and blistered on all sides, which should take about 8-10 minutes. Once done, transfer to a bowl and cover with plastic wrap (or place them in a sealed plastic bag) to steam for 10 minutes. This makes peeling easier!
2. Peel and Seed Peppers:
Once the peppers are cool enough to handle, peel off the charred skins. Slice the peppers lengthwise, and remove the seeds and membranes if you prefer less heat. Set aside.
3. Make the Cheese Mixture:
In a separate bowl, mix the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar, chopped cilantro, minced garlic, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper until everything is well combined. This creamy mixture is what will make your burgers extra special!
4. Form the Burger Patties:
Divide the ground beef into 4 equal portions. Flatten each portion into a burger patty that’s about 3/4 inch thick. Remember to sprinkle a little salt and pepper on both sides for extra flavor!
5. Prepare Stuffed Patties:
Take a generous spoonful of the cheese mixture and place it in the center of two of the patties. Cover those with the other two patties, carefully sealing the edges by pinching them together. This will keep all that cheesy goodness inside while they cook!
6. Cook the Burgers:
Preheat your grill or skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the stuffed patties for about 5-6 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F. Cook them until they’re golden brown and the cheese is melted inside. Adjust cooking time as necessary to ensure they’re cooked properly.
7. Toast the Buns:
While the burgers are cooking, lightly toast the burger buns on the grill or in a toaster until they are golden brown. A toasty bun adds a nice crunch!
8. Assemble the Burgers:
Now it’s time to put everything together! Spread some mayonnaise or chipotle mayo (if you’re using it) on the toasted buns. Place a cooked burger patty on the bottom bun and top it with a roasted poblano pepper half. Finally, cover with the top bun.
9. Serve:
Enjoy your Cheesy Poblano Popper Burgers immediately! They pair perfectly with fries, coleslaw, or a fresh salad.
These burgers are a creamy, smoky, and spicy delight that truly combine the best elements of a classic burger with the kick of poblano peppers and ooey-gooey cheese!
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This Cheesy Poblano Popper Burger recipe is perfect for backyard cookouts or a fun dinner at home. Each bite offers a fantastic blend of flavors, ensuring everyone will be coming back for seconds!
FAQ for Cheesy Poblano Popper Burger
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Ground Beef?
Yes, you can! Ground turkey is a great lean alternative, but keep in mind it may not be as juicy as ground beef. To help with moisture, consider adding a bit of olive oil or extra seasoning.
How Can I Adjust the Spice Level?
If you want to tone down the heat, remove the seeds and membranes of the poblano peppers before roasting. Alternatively, for more heat, you can add chopped jalapeños to the cheese mixture or choose spicier peppers like serranos.
Can I Prepare the Cheese Mixture Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the cream cheese mixture a day in advance. Just store it in the fridge in an airtight container. When you’re ready to cook, it will be ready to use!
How Do I Store Leftover Burgers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm the burgers gently in a skillet or in the microwave, covering them to prevent drying out.
