Peanut Butter Burger Recipe

Mix and form patties

In a large bowl combine 1 lb ground beef, 2 tbsp breadcrumbs, 1 egg, 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce, 1 tsp kosher salt and 1/2 tsp black pepper. Gently mix with your hands or a fork until just combined — avoid overmixing to keep patties tender. Divide mixture into 4 equal portions and shape each into a 3/4-inch thick patty, slightly wider than the buns. Make a shallow dimple in the center of each patty with your thumb to reduce puffing during cooking.

Cook patties

Heat 1 tbsp vegetable oil in a large skillet or cast-iron pan over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add patties (work in batches if needed) and cook 3-4 minutes without moving until a brown crust forms. Flip and cook another 3-4 minutes for medium doneness (internal temperature about 160°F / 71°C for ground beef). During the last minute of cooking, place a slice of cheddar cheese on each patty and cover the pan to melt the cheese. Transfer cooked patties to a plate and tent with foil to rest for 3-5 minutes.

Make the sauce

While the patties cook, whisk together 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter, 1 tbsp soy sauce, 1 tsp rice vinegar, 1 tsp honey, 1/2 tsp sriracha (if using), 2 tbsp warm water, 1/2 tsp grated fresh ginger and 1/2 tbsp fresh lime juice in a small bowl. Whisk until smooth and thin enough to drizzle; add an extra teaspoon of warm water if needed. Taste and adjust: add more soy for saltiness, honey for sweetness, or sriracha for heat.

Toast buns

Spread 2 tsp butter evenly across the cut sides of 4 burger buns. Toast buns cut-side down in a clean skillet over medium heat 1-2 minutes until golden and fragrant.

Assemble burgers

Place a lettuce leaf on the bottom half of each bun, then a cheesy beef patty. Spoon about 1 to 2 tbsp of the peanut butter sauce over each patty (adjust to taste). Top with tomato slices, a few red onion rings, and 2 pickle slices per burger. Add optional chopped cilantro and a sprinkle of crushed roasted peanuts for texture. Place the bun top and press gently.

Serve the peanut butter burgers immediately with extra peanut sauce on the side. Recommend serving with fries, a simple salad, or sweet potato wedges.