This Cheesy Poblano Popper Burger is a fun twist on a classic! It features a juicy beef patty topped with creamy cheese, roasted poblano peppers, and a spicy kick that you’ll love.
Who knew burgers could get so cheesy? I always add a little extra cheese on top because, let’s face it, more cheese is never a bad idea! 🧀
Making this burger is easy and a great way to impress friends. Just grill, assemble, and enjoy a bite of deliciousness that’s bursting with flavor! Perfect for a cookout!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I recommend using an 80/20 blend. It gives a juicy burger that’s flavorful. Feel free to substitute with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. You could even use plant-based ground meat for a vegetarian version!
Poblano Peppers: These peppers add a delicious smoky flavor. If you can’t find them, try using bell peppers for a milder taste or jalapeños for extra heat. Roasting can enhance any pepper’s flavor.
Cream Cheese: This makes the burger extra creamy! If you’re dairy-free, you can use a vegan cream cheese instead. You can also mix in some Greek yogurt for a tangy flavor if you’re looking for a lighter option.
Cheddar Cheese: Shredded cheddar provides a nice sharpness. Feel free to swap it with Monterey Jack or pepper jack for a bit of spice. You might try blue cheese for a bold flavor twist!
How Do You Roast Poblano Peppers Perfectly?
Roasting poblanos enhances their flavor and gives them a smoky taste. Here’s how to do it right:
- Whole poblanos can be roasted directly on the grill or under a broiler. Turn them every few minutes.
- Look for blistered, charred skin which means they’re ready. This usually takes about 8-10 minutes.
- After roasting, place them in a bowl and cover with plastic wrap. This steams them, making it easier to peel off the skin.
- Once they’re cool, peel off the skin, remove the seeds and stems, and they’re ready to go!
This simple technique makes all the difference in your burger’s flavor!
How to Make Cheesy Poblano Popper Burger
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend for juiciness)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 4 soft burger buns, toasted
- 4 poblano peppers
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh cilantro
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- Olive oil, for roasting poblanos
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time and around 20-25 minutes for cooking. You’ll spend just a few minutes roasting the poblanos, mixing the cheesy filling, and grilling the beef patties. Total time: about 40-45 minutes to enjoy a delicious burger!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Roast the Poblano Peppers:
Start by preheating your grill or broiler. Place the whole poblano peppers on the grill or under the broiler. Turn them occasionally until their skins become blistered and blackened, which takes about 8-10 minutes. This is perfect for flavorful smokiness!
2. Steam and Prepare the Peppers:
Once roasted, transfer the poblanos to a bowl and cover it tightly with plastic wrap. Let them steam for about 10 minutes. This helps loosen the skin. Once they’re cool enough to handle, peel off the charred skins, remove the seeds, and set them aside.
3. Make the Cheesy Filling:
In a small mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, chopped cilantro, minced garlic, smoked paprika, and optional cayenne pepper. Mix everything together until well blended. This creamy filling will take your burger to the next level!
4. Shape and Cook the Patties:
Now, form the ground beef into 4 equal patties. Don’t forget to season both sides with salt and pepper for flavor! Grill these patties over medium-high heat for about 4-5 minutes on each side, adjusting the time based on how you like your burgers cooked.
5. Add the Cheese Filling:
During the last minute of cooking, spread the cheesy mixture generously over each patty. Close the grill lid to let the cheese melt slightly over the burgers. The cheesy goodness will just ooze out—yum!
6. Assemble Your Burgers:
To put everything together, place a cheesy burger patty on the bottom half of a toasted bun. Top it with a roasted poblano pepper, and then finish with the other half of the bun. You’ve just created a delightful masterpiece!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve these burgers hot and enjoy the creamy, cheesy, smoky flavor with every bite! Share with friends or savor them all by yourself—either way, you won’t be disappointed!
FAQ for Cheesy Poblano Popper Burger
Can I Use a Different Type of Meat?
Absolutely! While ground beef is recommended for its juiciness, you can also use ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based ground meat options for a vegetarian version. Just adjust the cooking time as needed based on the meat you choose.
How Do I Store Leftover Burgers?
Leftover burgers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the burger on a microwave-safe plate and heat for about 30-60 seconds, or until warmed through. Avoid reheating in the oven as it can dry out the patty.
Can I Make the Cheesy Filling Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the cheesy filling up to 2 days in advance. Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge. When you’re ready to make the burgers, simply spread it over the patties as directed.
What Can I Serve with These Burgers?
These burgers pair wonderfully with a side of crispy fries, a fresh salad, or coleslaw for a refreshing crunch. You can also serve with a side of spicy dipping sauce or salsa for an extra kick!
