Cool Blue Burger Recipe

Prepare mixture

In a large bowl combine the ground chuck, 3 oz crumbled blue cheese, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce, 1 teaspoon kosher salt, and 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper. Gently mix with your hands or a fork until just combined — avoid overworking the meat to keep burgers tender.

Form patties

Divide the mixture into two equal portions (about 8 ounces each). Form each portion into a patty roughly 3/4-inch thick and about the diameter of the buns. Make a shallow dimple in the center of each patty with your thumb to help them cook evenly.

Cook

Heat a cast-iron skillet or grill over medium-high heat and add 1 tablespoon olive oil, swirling to coat. When the pan is hot and shimmering, add the patties. Cook for 3-4 minutes on the first side without moving, until a deep brown crust forms. Flip and cook an additional 3-4 minutes for medium (adjust time for desired doneness). If using an instant-read thermometer, aim for 160°F (71°C) for medium-well. Remove patties to a plate and tent loosely with foil to rest for 5 minutes.

While the patties rest, make the Cool Blue Sauce. In a small bowl combine 1/2 cup sour cream, 1/4 cup mayonnaise, 1 oz crumbled blue cheese, 1 teaspoon lemon juice, 1/2 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce, and 1 tablespoon finely chopped chives. Season with 1/4 teaspoon salt and 1/8 teaspoon black pepper. Stir until mostly smooth with visible blue cheese pieces. Taste and adjust salt, pepper, or lemon for brightness. Refrigerate until assembly if not using immediately.

Toast buns: Spread the softened butter on the cut sides of the 2 burger buns. Place buttered sides down in the hot skillet or on the grill for 30–60 seconds until golden and toasted. Remove and keep warm.

Assemble burgers: Spread a generous tablespoon (or to taste) of Cool Blue Sauce on the bottom bun. Place an iceberg lettuce leaf on the sauce, then a cooked blue cheese patty. Top each patty with two tomato slices and two red onion rounds, and pickles if using. Spoon an additional tablespoon of sauce on the top bun and close the burger.

Serve: Serve immediately with fries or a green salad. Leftover sauce will keep covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.