Juicy homemade burgers with smoky thyme, arugula, fresh veggies, and a touch of spice. A flavorful twist on the classic sandwich, perfect for quick dinners or weekend grilling.
Ingredients:
- 7 oz ground beef (or turkey)
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 2 tbsp plain breadcrumbs
- 1 green onion, finely chopped
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp fresh thyme leaves (or a pinch dried thyme)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Sunflower oil (or olive oil) for grilling
- 2 small burger buns
- 4 thin slices cucumber
- 1 medium tomato, sliced
- 1 handful baby arugula
- 1 tbsp mayo
- 1 tbsp ketchup
- Optional: dash of hot sauce for a kick
Directions:
- In a bowl, combine ground meat, egg, mustard, breadcrumbs, green onion, thyme, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well by hand until everything binds together. Let the mixture rest for 30 minutes in the fridge.
- Heat a lightly oiled grill pan over medium-high heat. Shape the meat into two burger patties, about ¾ inch thick.
- Sear each side for 2–3 minutes until browned, then lower the heat and cook for another 6–8 minutes per side, or until fully cooked through. Total cooking time is about 20 minutes.
- While the burgers rest, slice the buns and toast the insides on the same pan until lightly golden.
- Spread mayo on the bottom bun and ketchup on the top. Layer the burger with arugula, cucumber slices, and tomato.
- Top with the second bun and serve immediately with your favorite side.
