Traeger Burger Recipe: How to Make the Perfect Classic Burger

The Traeger Classic Burger is a simple yet flavorful recipe that combines ground beef, onions, and American cheese to create a mouthwatering experience. This recipe, designed for use with a pellet grill, emphasizes the importance of high-quality ingredients and precise cooking techniques to achieve the perfect burger.

Ingredients

• 1 pound 80/20 ground beef
• Traeger Beef Rub or kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
• Melted unsalted butter (for greasing)
• 2 medium white onions, thinly sliced
• 4 slices American cheese
• 4 potato buns or white burger buns
• 2 cups shredded iceberg lettuce
• Sliced pickles
• Ketchup and mustard for serving

Instructions

1. Preheat the Grill: Place a cast iron griddle on the grill grates, close the lid, and set the temperature to 450°F. Preheat for 15 minutes.
2. Prepare the Beef: Divide the ground beef into four 4-ounce portions and lightly roll into balls. Season with Traeger Beef Rub or salt and pepper.
3. Cook the Onions: Grease the griddle with melted butter. Place the onions on the corner of the griddle to start caramelizing.
4. Cook the Burgers: Place the beef balls on the hot griddle and smash them down with a spatula until flattened to about 1/2 inch thick. Cook until well-browned on the bottoms, then flip the burgers. Place some onions on top of the patties and drape the cheese over the onions. Cook until the cheese melts.
5. Toast the Buns: Brush the buns with melted butter and place them on the griddle to toast.
6. Assemble the Burgers: Spread your desired sauces over the bottom buns, then top with lettuce, a burger patty, more lettuce, pickles, more sauce, and the top buns. Serve immediately.

Conclusion

The Traeger Classic Burger is a testament to the beauty of simplicity in cooking. By focusing on quality ingredients and straightforward techniques, you can create a delicious and satisfying meal that will impress family and friends.

Insights and Tips

1. Optimal Cooking Temperature: Maintaining the grill at 450°F ensures that the burgers cook evenly and develop a nice crust while staying juicy inside.
2. Caramelized Onions: Starting the onions early allows them to caramelize, adding a sweet and savory depth to the burger.
3. Cheese Selection: While American cheese is recommended for its melting properties, you can experiment with other cheeses like cheddar or Swiss for different flavor profiles.

Enjoy this classic recipe and elevate your burger game with the Traeger Classic Burger!