Smoked Cajun Cheese Burgers Recipe
Smoked Cajun Cheese Burgers are a flavorful and juicy twist on classic cheeseburgers, featuring ground beef seasoned with bold Cajun spices, topped with melted smoked cheese, and served on toasted buns with fresh toppings and spicy mayo. These burgers deliver a smoky, spicy, and melty cheese experience perfect for grilling or skillet cooking.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 22 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
Beef & Seasonings
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend for juiciness)
- 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Cheese & Buns
- 4 slices smoked cheddar, pepper jack, or American cheese
- 4 burger buns (brioche, sesame, or your favorite)
- 1 tbsp butter or oil for grilling
Toppings & Sauces
- Lettuce
- Tomato slices
- Pickles
- Red onion slices
- Spicy mayo, remoulade, chipotle aioli, or your favorite sauce
- Optional: jalapeños or hot sauce for extra heat
Instructions
- Season the Beef: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef with Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, and a light sprinkle of salt and pepper. Mix gently to combine, being careful not to overwork the meat. Divide into 4 equal portions and shape into burger patties, pressing a slight indentation in the center of each to help them cook evenly.
- Heat the Grill or Pan: Preheat your grill to medium-high or heat a cast iron skillet over medium heat. Add a bit of oil or butter to prevent sticking and enhance browning.
- Cook the Patties: Place the patties on the grill or skillet. Cook for about 4–5 minutes on the first side, without pressing down, to allow a good crust to form. Flip the patties and cook another 3–4 minutes on the other side, or until desired doneness is reached (160°F/71°C for well-done). During the last minute of cooking, top each patty with a slice of cheese and cover loosely to help it melt.
- Toast the Buns: While the patties are cooking, lightly butter the buns and toast them on the grill or skillet until golden brown. This adds flavor and prevents sogginess from sauces or toppings.
- Assemble Your Burger: Spread your choice of spicy mayo or remoulade on the bottom bun. Place the cheesy Cajun patty on top, followed by crisp lettuce, juicy tomato slices, pickles, red onions, and optional jalapeños. Add a few dashes of hot sauce if you like it extra spicy. Cap it with the top bun and press gently.
Notes
- Do not overwork the meat when mixing seasonings to keep burgers tender and juicy.
- Pressing an indentation in the center of each patty helps them cook evenly and prevents puffing up.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure burgers reach 160°F (71°C) for safe consumption.
- Choosing smoked cheese enhances the smoky flavor.
- Customize toppings and sauces to your preference for added spice or sweetness.
Keywords: smoked Cajun burgers, spicy cheeseburgers, grilled burgers, smoky burgers, Cajun seasoning, beef burgers
