Tex-Mex Burger with Guacamole recipe

Now, let’s write the article.Let me tell you, I’ve always been a burger enthusiast. There’s something undeniably satisfying about sinking your teeth into a juicy, flavorful patty nestled between soft buns, loaded with your favorite toppings. But sometimes, you crave a burger with a little more… oomph. Enter the Tex-Mex Burger with Guacamole. This isn’t your average backyard BBQ burger. We’re talking about a flavor explosion that transports you straight to the heart of the Southwest. Imagine a perfectly seasoned, slightly spicy burger patty, grilled to perfection, then crowned with creamy, vibrant, freshly made guacamole. The cool, refreshing guacamole is the perfect counterpoint to the savory burger and the subtle heat from the Tex-Mex spices. The first time I made these for a weekend get-together, they were an absolute sensation. My friends, who are usually quite reserved with their compliments, were raving about the “incredible flavor” and “perfect balance.” Even the kids, who can sometimes be picky eaters, devoured them. This Tex-Mex Burger with Guacamole has become a staple in our house, a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that brings a fiesta of flavors to every bite. Get ready to elevate your burger game and experience a taste of Tex-Mex deliciousness!

Ingredients

To craft these mouthwatering Tex-Mex Burgers with Guacamole, you’ll need a vibrant array of ingredients, each contributing to the burger’s bold and refreshing flavor profile. Let’s break down what you’ll need for the burger patties, the star guacamole, and all the delicious toppings:

For the Tex-Mex Burger Patties:

• 1.5 lbs Ground Beef (80/20 blend recommended): The foundation of our burger. An 80/20 blend of ground beef (80% lean, 20% fat) is ideal for burgers as it provides the perfect balance of flavor and juiciness. The fat content keeps the patties moist during grilling or cooking. You can also use ground chuck for a richer beef flavor.
• 1 Small Onion, finely diced: Onion adds a subtle sweetness and savory depth to the burger patties. Finely dicing it ensures it cooks through evenly and blends seamlessly into the ground beef mixture. Yellow or white onions work well for this recipe.
• 2 Cloves Garlic, minced: Garlic is a flavor powerhouse that enhances the overall savory profile of the burger. Freshly minced garlic is always preferred for the best flavor, but you can use pre-minced garlic for convenience.
• 1 tablespoon Chili Powder: Chili powder is a key Tex-Mex spice blend that provides warmth, depth, and a hint of smoky flavor. It’s essential for achieving that authentic Tex-Mex taste in our burgers.
• 1 teaspoon Cumin: Cumin is another cornerstone of Tex-Mex cuisine, adding an earthy, warm, and slightly citrusy note. It complements the chili powder beautifully and enhances the overall spice blend.
• 1 teaspoon Smoked Paprika: Smoked paprika brings a delicious smoky depth that elevates the burger’s flavor complexity. It adds a subtle barbecue-like note that pairs wonderfully with the guacamole. If you only have sweet paprika, you can use that, but smoked paprika is highly recommended.
• ½ teaspoon Dried Oregano: Oregano adds a slightly pungent and peppery flavor that is characteristic of Tex-Mex and Southwestern cooking. Dried oregano is more potent than fresh, so a half teaspoon is usually sufficient.
• ½ teaspoon Salt: Salt is crucial for seasoning the burger patties and enhancing all the other flavors. Use kosher salt or sea salt for the best flavor. Adjust the amount to your taste preference.
• ½ teaspoon Black Pepper: Freshly ground black pepper adds a touch of spice and complexity. It complements the other spices and enhances the overall flavor profile of the burger.
• Optional: 1 tablespoon Worcestershire Sauce: Worcestershire sauce adds a savory umami depth to the burger patties. It enhances the beefy flavor and adds a subtle tang.
• Optional: 1 tablespoon Chopped Cilantro: Fresh cilantro adds a bright, herbaceous note that complements the Tex-Mex flavors. If you love cilantro, adding a tablespoon to the burger patty mixture can enhance the freshness of the burger.

For the Fresh Guacamole:

• 3 Ripe Avocados: Ripe avocados are the heart of guacamole, providing its creamy texture and rich, buttery flavor. Choose avocados that yield slightly to gentle pressure but are not mushy. Hass avocados are a popular choice for guacamole due to their creamy texture and rich flavor.
• ½ Red Onion, finely diced: Red onion adds a sharper, slightly pungent bite to the guacamole, providing a nice contrast to the creamy avocado. Finely dicing it ensures it blends well and doesn’t overpower the other flavors.
• 2 Roma Tomatoes, seeded and diced: Roma tomatoes add a juicy freshness and a touch of acidity to the guacamole. Seeding them helps prevent the guacamole from becoming too watery. Dicing them into small pieces ensures they mix evenly throughout the guacamole.
• 1-2 Jalapeños, seeded and minced (adjust to taste): Jalapeños bring the heat to our Tex-Mex guacamole. Start with one jalapeño and add more to taste, depending on your spice preference. Seeding them reduces some of the heat, but you can leave some seeds in for extra spiciness. Remember to handle jalapeños with care and wash your hands thoroughly after handling them.
• ¼ cup Fresh Cilantro, chopped: Fresh cilantro is essential for authentic guacamole flavor. It adds a bright, herbaceous, and slightly citrusy note that complements the avocado and other ingredients perfectly.
• Juice of 2 Limes: Fresh lime juice is crucial for guacamole. It provides acidity that brightens the flavors, prevents the avocado from browning, and adds a signature tangy zing. Freshly squeezed lime juice is always preferred over bottled for the best flavor.
• ½ teaspoon Salt (or to taste): Salt is essential for seasoning the guacamole and bringing out all the flavors. Start with ½ teaspoon and add more to taste, adjusting until the guacamole is perfectly seasoned.

For Assembly and Toppings (Customize to your liking!):

• 6 Burger Buns: Choose your favorite burger buns. Brioche buns, sesame seed buns, or even pretzel buns would work wonderfully. Make sure they are sturdy enough to hold all the burger components.
• 6 slices Pepper Jack Cheese (or Monterey Jack, Cheddar): Pepper Jack cheese adds a melty, spicy kick that complements the Tex-Mex flavors. Monterey Jack is a milder option that melts beautifully, and cheddar provides a classic cheeseburger flavor. You can also mix cheeses for a more complex flavor.
• Optional Toppings: Get creative and customize your Tex-Mex burger with your favorite toppings! Some excellent options include:
  • Shredded Lettuce (Iceberg or Romaine): Adds a crisp, cool texture and freshness.
  • Sliced Tomato: Provides juicy sweetness and acidity.
  • Sliced Red Onion: Adds a sharp, pungent bite.
  • Pickled Jalapeños: For extra heat and tang.
  • Sour Cream or Mexican Crema: Adds a creamy, cooling element.
  • Salsa (Pico de Gallo, Roasted Tomato Salsa): For extra layers of Tex-Mex flavor.
  • Tortilla Strips (for crunch): Adds a fun textural element.

Instructions

Let’s get cooking! Follow these step-by-step instructions to create your delicious Tex-Mex Burgers with Guacamole:

Step 1: Prepare the Guacamole (Make this first so the flavors meld!)

• Halve and Scoop Avocados: Cut the avocados in half lengthwise, remove the pits, and scoop the avocado flesh into a medium-sized bowl.
• Mash the Avocado: Using a fork, mash the avocado to your desired consistency. Some people prefer chunky guacamole, while others like it smoother. Leave it slightly chunky for a more rustic texture.
• Add Remaining Guacamole Ingredients: Add the finely diced red onion, diced Roma tomatoes, minced jalapeño (start with 1 and add more to taste), chopped cilantro, lime juice, and salt to the mashed avocado.
• Gently Mix: Gently stir all the ingredients together until they are well combined. Be careful not to overmix, as you want to maintain some texture in the guacamole.
• Taste and Adjust Seasoning: Taste the guacamole and adjust the seasoning as needed. You may want to add more lime juice for extra tang, more salt for flavor, or more jalapeño for heat.
• Refrigerate (Optional): If you’re not serving the guacamole immediately, cover it tightly with plastic wrap, pressing the wrap directly onto the surface of the guacamole to prevent browning. Refrigerate for up to 2-3 hours. The lime juice will help prevent oxidation, but guacamole is best served fresh.

Step 2: Prepare the Tex-Mex Burger Patties

• Combine Burger Ingredients: In a large bowl, gently combine the ground beef, finely diced onion, minced garlic, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, dried oregano, salt, black pepper, and optional Worcestershire sauce and chopped cilantro (if using).
• Gently Mix (Don’t Overmix!): Use your hands to gently mix the ingredients until just combined. Be careful not to overmix the meat, as this can result in tough burgers. You want to incorporate the spices and vegetables evenly without compacting the meat too much.
• Form Patties: Divide the meat mixture into 6 equal portions. Gently shape each portion into a patty about ¾ inch thick and slightly wider than your burger buns. Make a slight indentation in the center of each patty with your thumb. This helps prevent the burgers from puffing up in the middle while cooking.
• Chill (Optional): If you have time, you can chill the patties in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. This helps them firm up and hold their shape better during cooking.

Step 3: Cook the Tex-Mex Burgers

• Prepare Grill or Skillet: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat or heat a large skillet (cast iron is ideal) over medium-high heat. If using a skillet, add a tablespoon of oil (vegetable or canola oil works well).
• Cook the Burgers: Grill or pan-fry the burger patties for about 4-5 minutes per side for medium-rare, 5-6 minutes per side for medium, or 6-7 minutes per side for medium-well, or until cooked to your desired level of doneness. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature: 145°F for medium-rare, 160°F for medium, and 165°F for well-done.
• Add Cheese (Last Minute): In the last minute of cooking, place a slice of Pepper Jack cheese (or your cheese of choice) on top of each burger patty and let it melt slightly. You can cover the grill or skillet briefly to help the cheese melt faster.

Step 4: Toast the Burger Buns (Optional but Recommended)

• Toast Buns: While the burgers are cooking or resting, lightly toast the burger buns. You can toast them on the grill, in the skillet (cut-side down), or in a toaster oven. Toasting the buns adds a nice texture and prevents them from becoming soggy.

Step 5: Assemble the Tex-Mex Burgers with Guacamole

• Assemble Burgers: Place the toasted bottom buns on plates. Top each bun with a cheesy Tex-Mex burger patty.
• Generously Top with Guacamole: Spoon a generous amount of fresh guacamole on top of each burger patty.
• Add Desired Toppings: Add any other toppings you desire, such as shredded lettuce, sliced tomato, sliced red onion, pickled jalapeños, sour cream, or salsa.
• Top with Bun Tops: Place the top buns on the burgers.

Step 6: Serve Immediately and Enjoy!

• Serve your Tex-Mex Burgers with Guacamole immediately while they are hot and juicy. Enjoy the explosion of Tex-Mex flavors!

Nutrition Facts

(Approximate values per serving, assuming 1 Tex-Mex Burger with Guacamole per serving – recipe makes 6 servings)

• Servings: 6
• Calories per Serving: Approximately 650-750 calories (depending on bun type, cheese, and toppings)
  • Fat: 40-50g (mostly healthy fats from avocado and olive oil)
  • Saturated Fat: 15-20g (from ground beef and cheese)
  • Cholesterol: 150-180mg
  • Sodium: 600-800mg (can vary based on salt added and toppings)
  • Carbohydrates: 40-50g (from buns, vegetables)
  • Fiber: 10-12g (from avocado and vegetables)
  • Sugar: 5-7g (naturally occurring sugars in vegetables and bun)
  • Protein: 30-40g

Note: Nutritional values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredient brands, portion sizes, bun type, cheese, and additional toppings. For more precise nutritional information, use a nutrition calculator with the specific brands you use. Consider using leaner ground beef and whole wheat buns to reduce calories and increase fiber.

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 30 minutes (includes making guacamole, prepping burger patties, chopping vegetables)
• Cook Time: 15-20 minutes (grilling or pan-frying burgers, toasting buns)
• Total Time: Approximately 45-50 minutes

This Tex-Mex Burger with Guacamole recipe is relatively quick to prepare, making it perfect for a flavorful weeknight meal or a fun weekend cookout. The guacamole can be made ahead of time to save time on the day of cooking.

How to Serve Tex-Mex Burgers with Guacamole

These Tex-Mex Burgers with Guacamole are a complete meal in themselves, but serving them with complementary sides and in a festive way can elevate the dining experience. Here are some ideas on how to serve them:

• Classic Burger Sides:
  • French Fries or Potato Wedges: Crispy fries or seasoned potato wedges are always a crowd-pleasing burger side. Consider making sweet potato fries for a slightly healthier and flavorful option.
  • Onion Rings: Homemade or high-quality frozen onion rings add a satisfying crunch and classic burger accompaniment.
  • Coleslaw: A creamy or vinegar-based coleslaw provides a refreshing contrast to the rich burger.
  • Potato Salad: A classic potato salad, especially a Tex-Mex inspired version with corn and black beans, would pair well.
• Tex-Mex Inspired Sides:
  • Mexican Rice: Serve with a side of flavorful Mexican rice, cooked with tomatoes, onions, and spices.
  • Black Beans and Corn Salad: A refreshing salad with black beans, corn, red onion, cilantro, and a lime vinaigrette is a perfect light side.
  • Tortilla Chips and Salsa: Offer tortilla chips and a variety of salsas (mild, medium, and hot) for snacking while waiting for the burgers.
  • Elote (Mexican Street Corn): Grilled or roasted corn on the cob, coated with mayonnaise, cotija cheese, chili powder, and lime juice, is a fantastic Tex-Mex side.
• Presentation and Occasions:
  • Casual Backyard BBQ: Serve these burgers at your next backyard barbecue or cookout. They are perfect for casual gatherings with friends and family.
  • Game Day Feast: These burgers are a winning choice for game day parties. Set up a burger bar with all the toppings and let guests customize their own burgers.
  • Weeknight Family Dinner: Elevate your weeknight dinner routine with these flavorful and satisfying burgers.
  • Plating: Serve the burgers on plates with the sides arranged attractively. Garnish the plates with fresh cilantro sprigs or lime wedges for a pop of color.
  • Drinks: Pair these Tex-Mex burgers with refreshing drinks like:
    • Iced Tea: Classic and always refreshing.
    • Lemonade: Homemade lemonade or limeade complements the flavors.
    • Mexican Sodas: Jarritos or Mexican Coke add an authentic touch.
    • Beer: A cold Mexican lager or a hoppy IPA would pair well with the spicy and flavorful burger.
    • Margaritas (for adults): For a truly festive Tex-Mex experience, serve margaritas (classic lime or flavored).

Additional Tips for Perfect Tex-Mex Burgers with Guacamole

To take your Tex-Mex Burgers with Guacamole from good to absolutely amazing, here are five essential tips:

1. Don’t Overwork the Burger Meat: When mixing the burger patty ingredients, handle the ground beef gently and mix just until everything is combined. Overmixing can make the burgers tough and dense. Treat the ground beef like you would a delicate dough.
2. Make Guacamole Fresh (or Almost Fresh): Guacamole is always best when made fresh, or at least within a few hours of serving. The flavors are brightest and the texture is creamiest when freshly made. If you must make it ahead, follow the tip about pressing plastic wrap directly onto the surface and adding extra lime juice to minimize browning.
3. Toast the Buns for Better Texture: Toasting the burger buns, even lightly, makes a significant difference in the overall burger experience. Toasted buns hold up better to the juicy burger and toppings, preventing sogginess and adding a pleasant textural contrast.
4. Preheat Grill or Skillet Properly: Ensure your grill or skillet is properly preheated before cooking the burgers. This helps create a nice sear on the outside of the patties, locking in the juices and flavor. A hot surface also prevents the burgers from sticking.
5. Let Burgers Rest Before Serving: After grilling or pan-frying the burgers, let them rest for 5-10 minutes before assembling. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the patty, resulting in a more tender and flavorful burger. Tent the burgers loosely with foil while they rest to keep them warm.

FAQ About Tex-Mex Burgers with Guacamole

Here are some frequently asked questions about making and serving Tex-Mex Burgers with Guacamole:

Q1: Can I make the burger patties ahead of time?

A: Yes, you can prepare the burger patties ahead of time. Form the patties, place them on a plate or baking sheet lined with parchment paper, cover them tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Chilling the patties can actually help them firm up and hold their shape better during cooking. Just be sure to cook them thoroughly when you’re ready to serve.

Q2: Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of ground beef?

A: Absolutely! If you prefer a leaner option, you can substitute ground turkey or ground chicken for ground beef. However, ground turkey and chicken tend to be drier than ground beef, so you may want to add a tablespoon of olive oil or an egg to the mixture to help keep the patties moist. Also, ground turkey and chicken burgers generally benefit from being cooked a little longer to ensure they are fully cooked to a safe internal temperature (165°F).

Q3: How do I prevent my guacamole from turning brown?

A: Avocado naturally oxidizes and turns brown when exposed to air. To prevent guacamole from browning:
* Lime Juice: The acidity of lime juice is your best friend! Use plenty of fresh lime juice in your guacamole, as it slows down oxidation.
* Plastic Wrap: Press plastic wrap directly onto the surface of the guacamole, ensuring there are no air pockets. This creates a barrier and prevents air from reaching the guacamole.
* Refrigeration: Store guacamole in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
* Water (Less Recommended): Some people recommend placing a thin layer of water on top of the guacamole before refrigerating, but this can slightly dilute the flavor and texture. It’s generally better to rely on lime juice and plastic wrap.

Q4: Can I make the guacamole spicier?

A: Yes, you can easily adjust the spice level of the guacamole to your liking. To make it spicier:
* Increase Jalapeños: Add more jalapeños or use serrano peppers for even more heat. Remember to adjust the amount gradually and taste as you go.
* Leave Seeds In: Leave some of the jalapeño seeds in the guacamole for extra heat.
* Add Cayenne Pepper: Mix a pinch of cayenne pepper into the guacamole for a more intense heat.
* Hot Sauce: Add a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce to the guacamole.

Q5: What are some vegetarian alternatives for the burger patty?

A: For a vegetarian Tex-Mex Burger option, you can substitute the beef patty with:
* Black Bean Burgers: Homemade or store-bought black bean burgers are a great vegetarian option that fits the Tex-Mex theme perfectly.
* Portobello Mushroom Caps: Grilled portobello mushroom caps marinated in Tex-Mex spices can be a delicious and hearty vegetarian burger alternative.
* Sweet Potato and Corn Burgers: Vegetarian burgers made with sweet potato, corn, and black beans would also complement the Tex-Mex flavors.
* Lentil Burgers: Lentil burgers seasoned with Tex-Mex spices offer a protein-rich vegetarian option.

Enjoy creating these flavorful Tex-Mex Burgers with Guacamole! They are a guaranteed way to spice up your burger routine and impress your family and friends with a taste of the Southwest.

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