Goat Cheese Burger Recipe

Mix and form patties

Place ground beef in a bowl. Sprinkle salt, black pepper, and garlic powder over the meat. Gently mix with your hands until just combined — do not overwork. Divide into two equal portions and form into patties about 3/4-inch thick and slightly wider than the buns. Press a shallow dimple in the center of each patty to prevent puffing while cooking.

Cook patties

Heat a large skillet or cast-iron pan over medium-high heat and add 1 tablespoon olive oil. When oil is shimmering, add the patties. Cook for 3-4 minutes on the first side without moving them, until a brown crust forms. Flip and cook 3-4 minutes more for medium (adjust time for desired doneness). If using a thermometer, target 160°F (71°C) for well-done ground beef. Remove patties to a plate and tent loosely with foil to rest.

Sautéed spinach

While patties rest (or in a separate small skillet), melt 1 tablespoon unsalted butter over medium heat. Add the 2 cups baby spinach and sauté for 1-2 minutes, stirring, until wilted. Season with 1/4 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper. Remove from heat and set aside.

Caramelize or quick-pickle red onion (optional quick step)

Thinly slice the 1/2 red onion. For quick-pickled onion: place slices in a small bowl with 1 tablespoon lemon juice and a pinch of salt, let sit 10 minutes. For a milder raw bite, simply slice and reserve. (Either method works; pickled will be ready during the rest period.)

Prepare avocado spread

Halve and pit the avocado. Scoop flesh into a small bowl and mash with a fork to a chunky puree. Stir in 1/2 tablespoon lemon juice, a pinch of salt (part of the 1/4 tsp listed earlier), and a pinch of black pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning.

Make Dijon mayo

In a small bowl combine 2 tablespoons mayonnaise and 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard. Stir until smooth — this will be spread on the buns.

Crumble goat cheese

Crumble or slice the 4 ounces of goat cheese into small pieces so it will soften quickly when placed on the hot patties.

Toast buns

Heat a clean skillet or griddle over medium heat. Brush the cut sides of the 2 buns with 1 tablespoon olive oil or melted butter. Toast cut sides down for 1-2 minutes until golden and crisp. Remove from heat.

Assemble burgers

Spread Dijon mayo on both toasted bun halves. Place one patty on each bottom bun. Immediately top each hot patty with half the crumbled goat cheese so it softens slightly. Add a layer of sautéed spinach, a spoonful of mashed avocado, and a few slices (or a small mound) of the red onion (pickled or raw). Crown with the top bun.

Serve

Serve the goat cheese burgers hot with your choice of side (fries, salad, or chips). Leftover mashed avocado can be served on the side.