Smoked Cajun Burgers – The Ultimate Juicy Delight

If you crave bold flavors, the smoked Cajun burgers are a game-changer. These juicy, spicy patties infused with smoky flavors and topped with creamy Cajun sauce will have your taste buds dancing. Perfect for BBQ nights or weekend cookouts, this recipe brings Southern comfort straight to your plate.

What Are Smoked Cajun Burgers?

Smoked Cajun burgers combine the rich, smoky flavor of ground chuck with zesty Cajun spices and creamy, tangy sauce. By marinating the patties with Tony’s Creole Style Burger Marinade and adding a unique Cajun rub, these burgers stand out as a flavorful twist on the classic beef burger. Topped with gooey cheese and caramelized onions, each bite is a savory explosion.

Ingredients for Smoked Cajun Burgers

Cajun Sauce:

• ½ cup mayo
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• ½ lemon, juiced
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon Tony’s Lite Creole Seasoning

Cajun Burger Rub:

• 1 tablespoon garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon onion powder
• 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
• 2 teaspoons black pepper
• 2 teaspoons Tony’s Lite Creole Seasoning

Burgers:

• 3 pounds ground chuck
• 10 ounces pepper jack cheese, cubed (¼” cubes)
• 1 bottle Tony’s Creole Style Burger Marinade

Caramelized Onions:

• 2 sweet onions, chopped
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 tablespoon salt

For Assembly:

• Toasted buns
• Colby Jack 3 Pepper Cheese

Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Smoked Cajun Burgers

Step 1: Prepare the Cajun Sauce

1. In a small bowl, whisk together mayo, Worcestershire sauce, lemon juice, black pepper, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and Tony’s Lite Creole Seasoning.
2. Mix until smooth and creamy. Set aside in the refrigerator.

Step 2: Mix the Cajun Burger Rub

1. Combine garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, black pepper, and Creole seasoning in a bowl.
2. Stir thoroughly to ensure even blending.

Step 3: Prepare the Burger Patties

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine ground chuck with the burger rub mixture.
2. Add pepper jack cheese cubes into the beef and gently mix to distribute the cheese evenly.
3. Shape the meat into patties, about ¾ inch thick.

Step 4: Marinate the Patties

1. Place the patties in a dish and pour Tony’s Creole Style Burger Marinade over them.
2. Let the patties marinate for at least 30 minutes or overnight for richer flavor.

Step 5: Caramelize the Onions

1. Heat butter in a skillet over medium heat.
2. Add chopped sweet onions and salt. Stir occasionally until onions are golden brown and caramelized (about 20 minutes).

Step 6: Smoke the Burgers

1. Preheat your smoker to 225°F (107°C).
2. Place the patties on the grill and smoke for about 1.5 hours or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
3. Add cheese slices to the patties during the last 5 minutes of smoking.

Step 7: Assemble the Burgers

1. Toast the buns lightly on the grill.
2. Spread a generous layer of Cajun sauce on the bottom bun.
3. Place the smoked burger patty on top, followed by caramelized onions.
4. Top with Colby Jack 3 Pepper Cheese and close with the top bun.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Smoked Cajun Burgers

• Chill the Patties: Keeping the patties cold before grilling helps retain their shape.
• Don’t Overmix: Overworking the meat can make the burgers tough. Gently fold the cheese and rub into the ground chuck.
• Smoker Tips: Use wood chips like hickory or mesquite for deeper smoky flavor.
• Rest the Burgers: Let the burgers rest for 5 minutes after cooking to keep them juicy.

Nutritional Information

• Calories per serving: 650
• Protein: 45g
• Carbohydrates: 32g
• Fat: 38g
• Sodium: 1200mg

Health Concerns

• High Sodium: Cajun seasoning and marinades can elevate sodium levels. Opt for low-sodium alternatives if needed.
• Caloric Density: This burger is indulgent; consider a lettuce wrap instead of a bun for a lower-carb option.

Pros and Cons of Smoked Cajun Burgers

Pros:

• Packed with bold, smoky flavors.
• Perfect for BBQs and gatherings.
• Unique twist on the classic burger.

Cons:

• Requires smoking equipment.
• Higher in calories and sodium.

FAQs

How long should I smoke the burgers?
– Smoke the burgers for 1.5 hours at 225°F or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F.

Can I grill the burgers instead of smoking them?
– Yes, you can grill the patties over medium heat for about 6-7 minutes per side.

What cheese works best for smoked Cajun burgers?
– Pepper jack and Colby Jack 3 Pepper Cheese complement the spicy flavors perfectly.

Can I make the Cajun sauce ahead of time?
– Absolutely! Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week.

Is Tony’s Creole Marinade essential?
– While not essential, it adds depth to the flavor. Any Creole-style marinade can work.

Can I freeze the patties?
– Yes, freeze uncooked patties for up to 3 months.

Conclusion

Smoked Cajun burgers are a must-try for burger lovers seeking bold flavors and juicy bites. With Cajun rubs, marinated patties, and caramelized onions, this recipe guarantees a mouthwatering meal every time.

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