Black & Blue Burger Recipe

Mix and shape

Place ground beef in a bowl. Sprinkle Cajun seasoning, Worcestershire sauce, 2 tsp kosher salt, and 1 tsp freshly ground black pepper over the meat. Gently mix with your hands or a fork just until combined — avoid overworking. Divide mixture into two equal portions and form into patties about 3/4 inch thick, making a slight indentation in the center of each patty to prevent doming during cooking.

Season before cooking

Just before cooking, sprinkle the outsides of the patties with the remaining 1 tsp kosher salt.

Cook

Heat a cast-iron skillet or grill over medium-high heat and add 1 tsp vegetable oil if using a skillet. When very hot, add the patties. Cook for 3-4 minutes on the first side without moving, until a deep brown crust forms. Flip and cook another 3 minutes for medium-rare to medium. If you prefer more well done, cook 1-2 minutes longer. During the last 60-90 seconds of cooking, top each patty with half of the blue cheese topping (see next section) so it melts slightly.

Make the blue cheese spread

In a small bowl, combine crumbled blue cheese, softened cream cheese, mayonnaise, lemon juice, and 1 tsp freshly ground black pepper (and the remaining 1 tsp kosher salt from the patties list is already used; adjust salt to taste). Mash together with a fork until mostly combined but still a little chunky for texture. Taste and adjust seasoning. Refrigerate until ready to use, or use immediately to top the patties while hot so it softens.

Toast buns

Butter the cut sides of the burger buns with the softened butter. Place cut-side down in a separate skillet or on the grill over medium heat for 1-2 minutes until golden and toasted. Keep warm.

Prepare toppings

Toss the arugula or lettuce with a light pinch of salt and a tiny drizzle of oil if desired. Have thinly sliced red onion ready.

Assemble burgers

Place a toasted bottom bun on each plate. Add a small handful of arugula, then set a hot burger patty on top (with melted blue cheese topping). Spoon an additional dollop (about 1 tbsp) of the blue cheese spread on top of the patty if desired for extra creaminess. Add red onion slices, then crown with the top bun.

Serve

Serve immediately while hot with fries or a simple salad. Provide extra blue cheese spread on the side for anyone who wants more.