Description
Juicy Traeger smoked burgers blend smoky mesquite flavors with perfectly grilled beef patties. Backyard grill masters will savor this mouthwatering American classic that elevates summer cookouts with robust, wood-fired goodness.
Ingredients
Scale
Proteins:
- 2 lbs (907 grams) ground beef
Spices and Seasonings:
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
Additional Ingredients:
- 4 slices cheddar cheese
- 4 brioche or hamburger buns
- 1 tablespoon butter
- Lettuce
- Tomato
- Pickles
- Onion
Condiments:
- Ketchup
- Mustard
- Mayonnaise
- BBQ sauce
Instructions
- Gently combine ground beef with Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika in a spacious mixing bowl, ensuring even distribution of seasonings without overworking the meat.
- Divide the seasoned meat mixture into four equal portions, carefully shaping each into a uniform 12-inch thick patty with a subtle indentation at the center to maintain a flat surface during smoking.
- Prepare the Traeger smoker by preheating to 225°F, selecting a mild wood like hickory or apple for a delicate smoky essence.
- Place the seasoned patties directly on the smoker grates, allowing ample space between each burger for consistent heat circulation.
- Smoke the burgers for approximately 60-75 minutes, monitoring the internal temperature until it reaches 110°F for a perfect medium-rare finish.
- Increase the smoker temperature to 450°F for the final stage of cooking, creating a delectable crust and elevating the burger’s exterior to a rich, golden-brown color.
- Continue cooking until the internal temperature reaches 135°F for medium doneness, ensuring juicy and flavorful results.
- Remove the burgers from the smoker and let them rest for 5-7 minutes, allowing the juices to redistribute throughout the meat.
- Serve on toasted buns with preferred condiments and toppings, complementing the rich, smoky flavor profile of the Traeger-smoked burgers.
Notes
- Create a small indentation in the center of each patty to ensure even cooking and prevent the burger from becoming dome-shaped on the grill.
- Mix seasonings gently to avoid overworking the meat, which can make burgers tough and dense instead of juicy and tender.
- Opt for ground beef with a slightly higher fat content (80/20 blend) to guarantee maximum flavor and moisture during smoking.
- Experiment with different wood pellets like hickory or mesquite to add unique smoky undertones that complement the meat’s natural richness.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Category: Lunch, Dinner, Snacks
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 550
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 800 mg
- Fat: 36 g
- Saturated Fat: 15 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 20 g
- Trans Fat: 1 g
- Carbohydrates: 30 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 35 g
- Cholesterol: 100 mg