Iron Pier Smoky Maple Burgers

Ingredients

Burgers

• 1 1/2 pounds ground beef
• 1 1/2 to 2 teaspoons Iron Pier No. 2
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tablespoon maple syrup
• 4 slices cheddar cheese
• 4 brioche or burger buns, toasted
• 1 large onion, thinly sliced
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Optional toppings: lettuce, tomato, pickles, crispy bacon, or extra caramelized onions

Smoky Maple Burger Sauce

• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon ketchup
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon maple syrup
• 1/2 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon Iron Pier No. 2
• Optional: 1 teaspoon pickle juice for tang

Directions

Make the Sauce

1. In a small bowl, stir together mayonnaise, ketchup, Dijon mustard, maple syrup, Worcestershire sauce, and Iron Pier No. 2.
2. Add pickle juice if you want a little extra tang.
3. Cover and refrigerate while you make the burgers so the flavor can settle.

Make the Burgers

1. In a bowl, gently mix ground beef, Iron Pier No. 2, Worcestershire sauce, and maple syrup.
2. Form into 4 evenly sized burger patties. Do not overwork the meat.
3. Heat butter and olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
4. Add sliced onions and cook until soft, golden, and caramelized, about 12–18 minutes. Remove and set aside.
5. Heat a grill, skillet, or cast iron pan over medium-high heat.
6. Cook burgers for about 4–5 minutes per side, or until they reach your preferred doneness.
7. Add cheddar during the last minute of cooking and cover briefly so it melts.
8. Toast the buns, spread smoky maple burger sauce on each side, then build burgers with melted cheddar, caramelized onions, and your favorite toppings.
9. Serve warm.

Serve With

Serve with roasted potatoes, fries, grilled corn, honey herb carrots, pasta salad, chips, or a simple side salad for an easy dinner that feels like a weekend cookout.