Ready to elevate your burger and cocktail game? This recipe introduces the delicious fusion of the grilled smashed burger topped with a savory charred scallion aioli and pepper jack cheese, perfectly paired with a glass of refreshing spiced Cuba libre.
Photos of Grilled Smashed Burger And Cuba Libre Recipe
The ingredients in this recipe are mostly common kitchen items except for a few. Captain Morgan® Original Spiced Rum which adds a unique depth to the Cuba libre may not be readily available in your pantry. Boston bibb lettuce and pepper jack cheese, used in the burgers, can be found in the fresh produce and dairy sections of your local supermarket.
Grilled Smashed Burger and Spiced Cuba Libre Ingredients
Captain Morgan® Original Spiced Rum: A unique blend of Caribbean rum and spices that adds flavor and depth to cocktails.
Boston bibb lettuce: A type of butter lettuce known for its tender, sweet leaves, used in the burgers for a fresh crunch.
pepper jack cheese: A variety of cheese that's flavored with spicy chili peppers and bell peppers, giving your burger an extra kick.
Scallions: Also known as green onions, these are grilled and used in the aioli for their gentle onion flavor and vibrant color.
One reader, Crysta Graziano says:
This grilled smashed burger and Cuba Libre recipe is a game-changer! The combination of the juicy, flavorful burgers and the refreshing spiced Cuba Libre is a match made in heaven. The charred scallion aioli adds a unique twist that takes the burgers to the next level. A must-try for any BBQ enthusiast!
Mastering the Art of Smashed Burgers and Cuba Libre Cocktails
How to make spiced cuba libre: A refreshing and simple cocktail made by filling rocks glasses with ice, pouring in Captain Morgan® Original Spiced Rum and cola, and garnishing with a lime wheel.
How to make charred scallion aioli: This flavorful aioli is made by grilling scallions until charred, then combining them with garlic, mayonnaise, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. The mixture is refrigerated for at least an hour to allow the flavors to meld.
How to make smashed burgers: These delicious burgers are made by seasoning ground beef with salt and pepper, then smashing and grilling them until a nice brown crust forms. They are then topped with pepper jack cheese and served on toasted potato rolls with charred scallion aioli, lettuce, tomato, and bread and butter pickles.
How To Make Grilled Smashed Burger And Cuba Libre
Make your next grill-outs more fun with our smashed burger! Pair your tasty burgers off with our spiced Cuba Libre to make it extra special.
Serves:
Ingredients
For Spiced Cuba Libre:
- 4cupsice
- 6ozCaptain Morgan® Original Spiced Rum
- 16ozcola
- 1pclime,cut into 4 wheels
For Charred Scallion Aioli:
- 2bunchesscallions,green and white parts separated
- ¾tspkosher salt,divided
- ½tbspunsalted butter
- 1tbspgarlic,minced
- 1cupmayonnaise
- 1tbsplemon juice
- ¼tspblack pepper
For Burgers:
- 4pcspotato rolls
- 24ozground beef,rolled into 8 (3-oz) balls
- 1tspkosher salt
- ½tspblack pepper
- 8slicespepper jack cheese
- 8Boston bibb lettuce leaves,washed
- 8slicesvine ripe tomato
- ½cupbread and butter pickles
Equipments
-
nonstick cooking spray, for greasing
Instructions
Spiced Cuba Libre:
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Fill 4 rocks glasses with ice.
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Pour 1½ ounces of Captain Morgan® Original Spiced Rum into each glass. Top each glass with 4 ounces of cola and give a quick stir.
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Garnish each glass with a lime wheel, then serve. Enjoy while making the burgers.
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Place a griddle pan (or cast-iron pan) on the grill grates. Light the grill and set to high heat.
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Close the top of the lid and let the grill heat up with the griddle pan on it for 10 to 15 minutes.
Charred Scallion Aioli:
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Spray the now-hot griddle pan (or cast-iron pan) with nonstick spray.
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Place the white parts of the scallions on the pan and sprinkle with ¼ teaspoon kosher salt.
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Grill for 5 minutes, then flip and add the butter.
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Cook for 5 to 8 minutes more, flipping if necessary until the scallions are well charred. Remove from the griddle and let cool.
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Thinly slice scallion greens then add ⅓ cup of them to a medium bowl with the garlic, mayonnaise, lemon juice, remaining ½ teaspoon salt, and the pepper.
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Roughly chop the charred scallions and add to the bowl, mixing well to combine. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or until ready to serve.
Smashed Burgers:
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Turn the griddle to high heat then grease with nonstick spray.
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Cut the potato rolls in half.
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Place the halves on the griddle and cook for 2 to 3 minutes, or until golden brown. Remove from the pan and set aside.
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Wipe down the griddle pan with a damp paper towel, then grease again with nonstick spray.
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Season each beef portion with salt and pepper.
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Place half of the beef on the griddle, spacing well.
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Use a metal spatula to flatten and smash each burger, pressing down on the top of the spatula with the side of another spatula to help evenly distribute the pressure.
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Cook for 3 to 5 minutes, or until a nice brown crust forms.
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Flip the burgers, top each one with a slice of pepper Jack cheese, and cook for another 3 minutes, or until the cheese melts.
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Transfer to a plate and repeat with the remaining burgers and cheese.
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Spoon a generous amount of charred scallion aioli onto each bottom burger bun, then top each with a piece of lettuce and slice of tomato, if using.
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Place 2 smash burgers on each bun, top with bread and butter pickles, and finish with the cheese-fried top bun.
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Insert a skewer in each burger to hold everything together, serve, and enjoy!
Nutrition
- Calories: 1325.65kcal
- Fat: 98.17g
- Saturated Fat: 31.19g
- Trans Fat: 2.07g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 31.51g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 28.26g
- Carbohydrates: 38.18g
- Fiber: 4.85g
- Sugar: 19.97g
- Protein: 48.59g
- Cholesterol: 196.95mg
- Sodium: 1828.70mg
- Calcium: 585.12mg
- Potassium: 1073.86mg
- Iron: 5.86mg
- Vitamin A: 212.16µg
- Vitamin C: 25.54mg
Expert Advice for Perfecting Your Smashed Burger Technique
When making your smashed burgers, it's important to press down firmly and evenly with your spatula to ensure that the burger cooks evenly. However, be careful not to overdo it as you don't want to squeeze out all the juices from the meat. This technique will give your burgers a deliciously crispy crust while keeping the inside juicy and flavorful.
Time-Saving Tips for Grilled Smashed Burger and Cuba Libre Recipe
Prep ahead: Prepare the charred scallion aioli and spiced cuba libre ahead of time to save time on the day of grilling.
Use a griddle pan: Using a griddle pan on the grill allows you to cook the burgers and toast the buns simultaneously, saving time and effort.
Organize ingredients: Pre-measure and organize all the ingredients and tools needed for the recipe to streamline the cooking process.
Multi-task: While the burgers are grilling, prepare the charred scallion aioli or assemble the spiced cuba libre to make the most of your time in the kitchen.
Prep the grill: Preheat the grill and the griddle pan in advance to ensure they are hot and ready for cooking, saving time during the grilling process.
Substitute Ingredients For Grilled Smashed Burger And Cuba Libre Recipe
captain morgan® original spiced rum - Substitute with spiced rum: Spiced rum is a suitable alternative that will provide a similar flavor profile to the original spiced rum.
cola - Substitute with root beer: Root beer can be used as a substitute for cola to add a different flavor profile to the spiced cuba libre.
lime - Substitute with lemon: Lemon can be used as a substitute for lime to provide a similar citrusy flavor to the spiced cuba libre.
scallions - Substitute with chives: Chives can be used as a substitute for scallions to provide a similar mild onion flavor to the charred scallion aioli.
mayonnaise - Substitute with Greek yogurt: Greek yogurt can be used as a healthier substitute for mayonnaise in the charred scallion aioli, providing a creamy texture and tangy flavor.
potato rolls - Substitute with brioche buns: Brioche buns can be used as a substitute for potato rolls to add a rich and slightly sweet flavor to the burgers.
ground beef - Substitute with ground turkey: Ground turkey can be used as a leaner alternative to ground beef in the burgers, providing a lighter option with a similar texture.
pepper jack cheese - Substitute with smoked gouda cheese: Smoked gouda cheese can be used as a substitute for pepper jack cheese to add a rich, smoky flavor to the burgers.
boston bibb lettuce - Substitute with butter lettuce: Butter lettuce can be used as a substitute for boston bibb lettuce, providing a similar delicate and slightly sweet flavor for the burgers.
vine ripe tomato - Substitute with heirloom tomato: Heirloom tomatoes can be used as a substitute for vine ripe tomatoes, adding a variety of colors and flavors to the burgers.
bread and butter pickles - Substitute with dill pickles: Dill pickles can be used as a substitute for bread and butter pickles, providing a tangy and slightly sour flavor to the burgers.
Plating Ideas for a Picture-Perfect Burger and Cuba Libre
Elevate the burger buns: Lightly toast the potato rolls on the griddle to add a crispy texture and enhance the overall flavor of the burger.
Artfully arrange the smashed burgers: Place the smash burgers on the buns with precision, ensuring they are centered and stacked neatly to create an appealing visual presentation.
Garnish with precision: Carefully position the lettuce, tomato slices, and bread and butter pickles on the burgers, ensuring each element is placed thoughtfully for a visually stunning presentation.
Drizzle the charred scallion aioli: Use a squeeze bottle to drizzle the charred scallion aioli in an artistic pattern on the plate, adding a touch of elegance to the dish.
Serve the spiced Cuba Libre in stemmed glasses: Present the spiced Cuba Libre in elegant stemmed glasses, garnished with a lime wheel for a sophisticated and refined beverage presentation.
Use a skewer for a professional touch: Insert a skewer into each burger to hold the layers together, adding a professional and polished finish to the dish.
Essential Equipment for Crafting the Perfect Smashed Burger
Griddle pan: A griddle pan is a flat cooking surface with a ridged or flat surface, typically made of cast iron or aluminum. It is used for cooking burgers, steaks, pancakes, and other foods over direct heat.
Cast-iron pan: A cast-iron pan is a heavy-duty cooking pan made of cast iron. It is known for its excellent heat retention and even heat distribution, making it ideal for searing, frying, and baking.
Metal spatula: A metal spatula is a flat, thin, and flexible kitchen tool with a broad, flat blade, used for flipping and turning foods such as burgers, pancakes, and grilled sandwiches.
Nonstick spray: Nonstick spray is a cooking spray that contains oil and lecithin, designed to prevent food from sticking to cooking surfaces such as griddle pans and baking sheets.
Skewer: A skewer is a long, slender metal or wooden stick used to hold and cook small pieces of food, such as kebabs, on a grill or over an open flame.
How To Reheat Leftover Grilled Smashed Burgers
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover smashed burgers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or aluminum foil. Cover the burgers loosely with another piece of foil to prevent them from drying out. Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. Remove the foil cover for the last 2-3 minutes to crisp up the buns and melt the cheese.
For a quicker option, use a microwave. Place the smashed burgers on a microwave-safe plate and cover them with a damp paper towel. This will help retain moisture. Microwave on high for 30-45 seconds, or until heated through. Be careful not to overheat, as this can cause the burgers to become rubbery.
If you have an air fryer, you can reheat the smashed burgers while maintaining their crispy texture. Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Place the burgers in the air fryer basket, ensuring they don't overlap. Cook for 3-4 minutes, or until heated through and the buns are crispy.
For the Cuba Libre, simply fill a glass with ice, pour in the desired amount of Captain Morgan® Original Spiced Rum, and top it off with cola. Give it a quick stir and garnish with a fresh lime wheel. The flavors will remain intact, and you can enjoy the drink as if it were freshly made.
If you have leftover charred scallion aioli, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It should keep well for up to 3 days. When ready to use, give it a good stir and spread it on the reheated smashed burgers for added flavor and moisture.
Fascinating Trivia About Smashed Burgers and Cuba Libre Cocktails
The grilled smashed burger and cuba libre recipe is a delicious combination of flavors and textures, perfect for a summer cookout. The charred scallion aioli adds a smoky and savory element to the juicy smashed burgers, while the spiced cuba libre provides a refreshing and zesty beverage to accompany the meal. This recipe is a great way to elevate your grilling game and impress your guests with a unique and flavorful dining experience. Enjoy the fusion of flavors and the satisfying crunch of the smashed burgers, paired with the spiced rum and cola cocktail. It's a winning combination for any outdoor gathering.
Budget-Friendly: Making Grilled Smashed Burgers at Home
The cost-effectiveness of this grilled smashed burger and cuba libre recipe largely depends on the availability and cost of ingredients in your area. Ground beef, cheese, and condiments are generally affordable, while the cost of alcohol and specialty items like scallions may vary. Considering the quantity and variety of ingredients, this recipe can be a budget-friendly option for a household. As for the overall verdict, I would rate this recipe an 8 for its flavorful combination and versatility. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people may range from $30 to $40, making it a reasonable choice for a satisfying meal.
Is This Burger and Cocktail Combo Healthy or Unhealthy?
The grilled smashed burger and Cuba libre recipe is a delicious but indulgent meal that is high in calories, fat, and sugar. The main health concerns are:
- High saturated fat content from the beef and cheese
- Refined carbohydrates from the potato rolls and cola
- Added sugars from the cola and bread and butter pickles
- High sodium content from the salt, cheese, and pickles
While the recipe does include some vegetables like lettuce, tomato, and scallions, they are not enough to balance out the less healthy components.
To make this recipe healthier, consider the following modifications:
- Opt for lean ground beef (90% or higher) or even ground turkey to reduce the saturated fat content
- Use whole wheat or multigrain buns instead of potato rolls for added fiber and nutrients
- Swap the pepper jack cheese for a lower-fat variety like part-skim mozzarella or provolone
- Replace the cola with a sugar-free alternative or sparkling water with lime juice
- Use low-sodium pickles or fresh cucumber slices for crunch without the added salt
- Increase the vegetable content by adding sliced onions, avocado, or a side salad
By making these adjustments, you can still enjoy the flavors of the grilled smashed burger and Cuba libre while reducing the overall calorie, fat, and sugar content. Remember, moderation is key, and indulging in this meal occasionally as part of a balanced diet can be part of a healthy lifestyle.
Editor's Take: Grilled Smashed Burger and Cuba Libre Recipe Review
This recipe offers a delightful combination of flavors and textures. The spiced Cuba Libre provides a refreshing and spirited accompaniment to the bold and savory grilled smashed burgers. The charred scallion aioli adds a smoky depth to the dish, complementing the juicy beef and melted pepper jack cheese. The griddling technique ensures a perfect sear and caramelization, enhancing the overall taste. The use of quality ingredients and thoughtful preparation make this recipe a standout choice for a memorable outdoor dining experience.
Enhance Your Grilled Smashed Burger And Cuba Libre Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:
Similar Recipes to Try If You Love Smashed Burgers
Appetizer and Dessert Pairings for Your Burger and Cuba Libre Feast
Why trust this Grilled Smashed Burger And Cuba Libre Recipe:
This recipe offers a unique twist on the classic burger and Cuba Libre, incorporating spiced rum and a charred scallion aioli for a flavorful experience. The use of captain morgan® original spiced rum adds depth to the Cuba Libre, while the charred scallion aioli brings a smoky, savory element to the burgers. The step-by-step instructions ensure that even novice chefs can recreate this delicious meal. With high-quality ingredients like pepper jack cheese and boston bibb lettuce, this recipe promises a gourmet dining experience at home. Trust the combination of classic flavors and innovative techniques for a memorable meal.
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