The Importance of the Coleslaw

The coleslaw on these BBQ burgers is not just a simple topping; it’s an essential component that adds both texture and flavor. The crispness of the grated carrots and finely shredded cabbage gives the burger an added crunch, balancing out the richness of the beef and the creamy coleslaw dressing. The addition of grated white onion provides a mild bite, while the apple cider vinegar adds a subtle tang that cuts through the heaviness of the other ingredients. The sweetened mayonnaise-based dressing, combined with olive oil, helps to bind the ingredients together, ensuring each bite is full of flavor. The coleslaw’s refreshing crunch perfectly contrasts with the warm, juicy burger, making it an indispensable part of this dish.

Creating the Perfect Spice Rub

The secret to the bold flavor of these BBQ burgers lies in the unique spice rub that coats the patties. The rub consists of a combination of ancho chile powder, paprika, ground coriander, ground cumin, dry mustard powder, dried oregano, and cayenne powder. Together, these spices deliver a smoky, earthy, and slightly spicy flavor profile that elevates the beef. Ancho chile powder gives the rub a rich, smoky base, while paprika adds a subtle sweetness and a hint of heat. The cumin and coriander bring depth and complexity, while the dry mustard and oregano introduce a touch of zest. The cayenne powder gives the rub a mild level of heat, which is balanced out by the other spices, making it perfect for anyone who enjoys a flavorful burger with a bit of spice without overwhelming the taste buds.

The Key to Grilled Perfection

Grilling the burgers is the best way to achieve that smoky, charred flavor that makes BBQ burgers so irresistible. By preheating the grill to high heat and brushing the grates with oil, you ensure that the patties cook evenly and don’t stick to the grill. The ground chuck used in these burgers is 80% lean, which gives the patty just the right amount of fat to keep it juicy and flavorful. When forming the patties, it’s essential to make a divot in the center of each patty with your thumb. This small indentation helps prevent the burgers from puffing up during cooking, ensuring they stay flat and cook evenly. Once on the grill, the spice rub side of the patty is placed down first, allowing the heat to caramelize the spices, creating a beautifully charred crust.

Cheese and BBQ Sauce: A Classic Combo

No BBQ burger is complete without a generous topping of cheese and a good slather of BBQ sauce. For these burgers, two slices of white American cheese are melted over the patties, creating a gooey, creamy layer that complements the smoky, spicy flavors of the burger. American cheese is a classic choice for burgers because of its smooth melt and mild flavor, making it an excellent partner to the bold seasoning in the spice rub. After the cheese melts, the burgers are topped with about two tablespoons of sweet BBQ sauce. The BBQ sauce adds a sticky, tangy finish that perfectly balances the heat from the jalapenos and the richness of the beef.

Pickled Jalapenos: Adding Heat and Flavor

Pickled jalapenos add a delightful, zesty punch to these BBQ burgers. The vinegar from the pickling process imparts a tangy brightness that contrasts beautifully with the richness of the beef, cheese, and coleslaw. The heat from the jalapenos also provides a welcome kick, but the pickling helps to mellow out the spice, making it manageable for all heat tolerances. The sliced pickled jalapenos also add a pop of color, making the burger visually appealing while providing a flavorful bite in every mouthful. They are the perfect topping for anyone who loves a little heat in their burger but doesn’t want to overpower the other flavors.

Brioche Buns: The Ideal Burger Vessel

When it comes to burgers, the bun is just as important as the filling. For this BBQ burger recipe, brioche buns are the perfect choice. Brioche buns are light, slightly sweet, and buttery, which makes them ideal for holding all of the ingredients together without overwhelming the flavors. The soft, pillowy texture of the brioche provides a perfect contrast to the crunchy coleslaw and the juicy beef patty. Additionally, brioche buns toast beautifully on the grill, creating a slightly crispy exterior that adds an extra layer of texture to the burger. Toasting the buns for 10-15 seconds ensures they don’t get soggy and helps to enhance their flavor and texture.

Grilling Tips for Success

To achieve the perfect BBQ burger, a few grilling tips can help ensure success. First, make sure your grill is preheated to high heat. This will help achieve the signature grill marks on the patties and allow them to cook quickly, locking in juices. Avoid pressing down on the patties with a spatula while grilling, as this can release the flavorful juices and result in a dry burger. Instead, let the grill do the work. To ensure your burgers are cooked to the perfect level of doneness, use a meat thermometer. For medium burgers, the internal temperature should reach 160°F. Once the burgers are cooked, allow them to rest for a few minutes before serving to ensure they remain juicy.

Serving Suggestions

These BBQ burgers can be served with a variety of sides to create a complete meal. For a classic BBQ experience, pair the burgers with crispy fries or sweet potato fries. A side of grilled vegetables, such as corn on the cob, asparagus, or bell peppers, complements the smoky flavors of the burgers and adds freshness to the meal. If you’re looking for something a little lighter, a crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette works well to balance the richness of the burgers. Additionally, baked beans or a potato salad would make great side dishes, adding to the hearty, satisfying nature of the meal.

Perfect for Summer Cookouts

These BBQ burgers are ideal for summer cookouts, as they offer a delicious, crowd-pleasing option that’s easy to prepare and cook on the grill. The combination of flavors—smoky, spicy, tangy, and creamy—makes them a great addition to any barbecue. They are also perfect for casual weeknight dinners when you want to enjoy a tasty, filling meal without spending too much time in the kitchen. With their bold flavors and satisfying texture, these BBQ burgers are guaranteed to be a hit with your family and friends.

Conclusion

In conclusion, these BBQ Burgers with Coleslaw and Pickled Jalapenos are a deliciously flavorful twist on the classic burger. The spice rub, combined with melted cheese, sweet BBQ sauce, tangy coleslaw, and pickled jalapenos, creates a burger that is full of bold, balanced flavors. The brioche buns add the perfect finishing touch, making each bite a satisfying experience. Whether you’re grilling them for a summer cookout or making them for a weeknight dinner, these burgers are sure to become a favorite. With their combination of smoky, spicy, creamy, and tangy elements, these BBQ burgers offer the perfect bite every time.