Spicy Burger Recipe

Mix and form patties

Place the ground beef in a bowl. Sprinkle kosher salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika over the meat. Gently combine with your hands until just mixed (do not overwork). Divide into two equal portions and form each into a patty about 3/4-inch thick and slightly wider than the bun. Press a shallow dimple in the center of each patty to reduce puffing while cooking.

Cook patties

Heat a large skillet or cast-iron pan over medium-high heat and add 1 tablespoon neutral oil. When the oil is shimmering and just smoking, add the patties. Cook without moving for 3-4 minutes until a brown crust forms. Flip and cook 2-3 minutes more for medium (adjust 1-2 minutes for doneness preference). During the last 1 minute of cooking, place a slice of pepper jack cheese on each patty and cover the pan for 30-60 seconds to melt the cheese. Remove patties to a plate and tent with foil to rest.

Prepare fresh jalapeño

Slice the fresh jalapeño thinly on the bias. If you prefer milder heat, remove seeds and membranes before slicing. Set aside several slices for raw topping and use the remainder to chop finely if you want to incorporate into the sauce.

Make spicy mayo

In a small bowl combine 2 tablespoons mayonnaise, 1 teaspoon sriracha, 1/2 tablespoon lime juice, and 1/8 teaspoon salt. Stir until smooth. Add a teaspoon of the finely chopped fresh jalapeño (optional) for extra heat, then taste and adjust sriracha or lime as desired. Stir in pickled jalapeño slices if you like more vinegary heat.

Toast buns

Spread the softened butter evenly on the cut sides of the buns. In a clean skillet over medium heat, toast the buns cut-side down 1-2 minutes until golden and aromatic. Alternatively, toast under a broiler for 30-60 seconds—watch closely to avoid burning.

Assemble burgers

Spread about 1 tablespoon of the spicy mayo on the bottom bun. Place a lettuce leaf (if using) and a cheese-topped patty on the bun. Top the patty with 1-2 fresh jalapeño slices, a couple of pickled jalapeño slices if desired, a couple of tomato slices, and thin red onion rings. Spread a little spicy mayo on the top bun and close the burger. Serve immediately while hot.