Nani Burger: A Classic Family Favorite
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Servings: 4
Description: Even if you’re not usually a burger enthusiast, prepare to be pleasantly surprised by this incredible recipe! Known fondly as the “Nani Burger,” named after me by my husband and friends, this burger has become a beloved staple in our household. Its delightful mix of flavors and hearty stuffing ensures it’s always a hit, though it does require a bit of patience. While the occasional leak of stuffing might occur, don’t be discouraged—I’ve been making these for years and still experience the occasional mishap. But rest assured, the majority of the delicious filling stays put, creating a mouthwatering burger experience every time!
Ingredients:
- 1 to 2 pounds ground beef – The hearty base of our burger, providing that rich, meaty flavor.
- 1 to 2 pounds Italian sausage – Adds a savory, spiced kick.
- 3 large eggs – Helps bind the meat mixture together for a perfect consistency.
- 1 cup finely chopped mushrooms – For an earthy, umami boost.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese – Melts beautifully and adds a sharp, tangy flavor.
- 1/2 cup shredded Swiss cheese – Offers a smooth, nutty contrast.
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese – Provides a creamy texture and mild flavor.
- 1/4 cup shredded jalapeño jack cheese – Adds a delightful, spicy kick.
- 1/4 cup barbecue sauce – A sweet and tangy layer of flavor to complement the meats and cheeses.
- 4 French rolls – The perfect vessel for our decadent burgers.
Instructions:
-
Prepare the Bacon:
- Cook the bacon until crisp, or to your preferred level of doneness. Once cooked, drain and set aside. This will be crumbled and used in the burger stuffing for extra flavor.
-
Mix the Meat:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef and Italian sausage until thoroughly blended. This mixture forms the hearty base of your burger patties.
-
Form the Burger Patties:
- On a sheet of wax paper, divide the meat mixture into approximately 1/2 to 1-pound balls. Flatten each ball into an even, 1/4-inch thick circle. Be cautious not to flatten too thin, as this may cause the filling to leak out during cooking.
-
Assemble the Filling:
- On one half of each meat circle, layer the cheeses starting with cheddar, Swiss, Monterey Jack, and jalapeño jack, placing them from the center towards the edges. This ensures that each bite has a mix of melty, flavorful cheeses.
- Top the cheese with the finely chopped mushrooms and crumbled bacon.
- Spoon 2 tablespoons of barbecue sauce over the cheese, mushrooms, and bacon, adding a tangy and sweet layer to the filling.
-
Shape the Burger:
- Carefully fold the meat circle in half, using the empty side of the meat to cover the filling. Pinch and fold the edges to seal the burger, ensuring no filling escapes during cooking.
- Shape the burger to match the size of the French roll, using any excess meat from the edges to patch up holes or gaps.
-
Cook the Burger:
- Grill Method: Preheat the grill to medium heat. Place the burgers over medium coals and cook with the grill covered for approximately 30 minutes. Turn the burgers every 5-7 minutes to ensure even cooking and melting of the cheese.
- Pan Fry Method: Heat a skillet over medium-low heat. Place the burgers in the skillet, cover, and cook for approximately 20 minutes on each side, or until the juices run clear.
-
Serve:
- Serve the burgers on the French rolls with honey mustard and any other condiments you desire. Avocado slices make a fantastic addition!
Note: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses and stuffing variations. I’ve tried variations including just ground beef, grilled red and yellow bell peppers, chili, and even ground turkey. Adjust according to your taste preferences!
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: 1197.3
- Fat Content: 77.7 grams
- Saturated Fat Content: 33 grams
- Cholesterol Content: 266.1 milligrams
- Sodium Content: 2838.1 milligrams
- Carbohydrate Content: 48.3 grams
- Fiber Content: 2.5 grams
- Sugar Content: 11.2 grams
- Protein Content: 72.6 grams
Enjoy creating this indulgent burger that will surely become a favorite in your household as well! 🍔🎉
