Rode Philly Cheeseburger Recipe
Make Rode Philly Cheeseburger Recipe in just 35m. Get the full recipe with step-by-step instructions at pekinthechef.com.
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Ingredients
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Burger Patties & Seasoning
Onion & Pepper Mixture (Rode Philly style)
Cheese & Finishing
Optional Garnishes
Method
Burger Patties & Seasoning
- 1
Form patties
Place the ground beef in a bowl. Add kosher salt, 1/2 tsp black pepper and Worcestershire sauce. Mix gently with your hands just until combined — do not overwork. Divide into two equal portions and form into slightly wider-than-bun patties about 3/4 inch thick. Make a shallow dimple in the center of each patty to help them keep shape while cooking.
- 2
Cook patties
Heat a heavy skillet or cast-iron pan over medium-high heat and add 1 tablespoon oil. When shimmering, add the patties. Cook without moving until a deep brown crust forms, about 3–4 minutes. Flip and cook the second side 2–3 minutes for medium; adjust to desired doneness. Reduce heat to low when done and keep warm in the pan or transfer to a plate tented with foil.
Onion & Pepper Mixture (Rode Philly style)
- 3
Sauté vegetables
While patties cook (or in a separate skillet), melt 1 tablespoon butter with 1 teaspoon olive oil over medium heat in a skillet. Add the thinly sliced yellow onion and red bell pepper. Stir to coat and cook, stirring occasionally, until the onion is translucent and edges begin to caramelize, about 6–8 minutes.
- 4
Add banana peppers and season
Add the sliced banana/pickled peppers and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook 1–2 minutes more until fragrant. Stir in smoked paprika, 1/2 tsp salt and 1/4 tsp black pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning — the banana peppers add tang and mild heat, contributing the 'rode' (rustic/spicy) variation on a Philly.
- 5
Finish mixture
If the mixture seems dry, add a splash (about 1 tbs) of water or beef drippings from the pan and cook 30 seconds to loosen. Remove from heat and keep warm.
Cheese & Assembly
- 6
Toast buns
Heat a separate small skillet or wipe out the burger pan and melt 1 tablespoon butter over medium. Split the burger buns and toast cut sides down until golden, about 1–2 minutes. Remove and set aside.
- 7
Melt cheese on patties
Return the cooked patties to low heat if needed. Place one provolone slice and one American slice (if using) on each patty. Cover the pan for about 30–45 seconds to a minute to melt the cheese thoroughly.
- 8
Build Rode Philly Cheeseburger
Spread 1 tablespoon mayonnaise and 1/2 teaspoon mustard on each bottom bun. Place the cheese-topped patty on the bottom bun, divide the warm onion & pepper mixture evenly over the patties, then top with shredded lettuce, tomato slices and pickles if using. Cap with the top bun and press gently.
- 9
Serve
Serve immediately while hot. Optionally pair with fries or kettle chips. Leftover onion mixture can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days.