Grilled Cola Burgers
If you’re planning a cookout or just want to elevate your dinner without the fuss, cola burgers are a fun, delicious twist on a classic.
Equipment
- Grill (Gas or Charcoal)
- Mixing Bowl
- Small saucepan
- Grill spatula
- Meat thermometer (optional)
- Basting Brush
- Tongs
Ingredients
For the Burger Patties
- 1 ½ pounds ground beef 80/20 blend recommended
- ¼ cup cola regular, not diet
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For the Cola Glaze
- ¼ cup cola
- 1 tablespoon ketchup
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon mustard
- Pinch of black pepper
For Assembling
- 4 burger buns toasted
- Lettuce leaves
- Sliced tomatoes
- Red onion slices
- Pickles
- Cheese slices optional
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Burger Mixture
- In a large mixing bowl, add the ground beef.
- Pour in ¼ cup of regular cola and Worcestershire sauce.
- Sprinkle in onion powder, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Using your hands or a spoon, gently mix everything together just until combined.
- Pro tip: Avoid overmixing to keep your patties tender and juicy.
Step 2: Shape the Patties
- Divide the meat mixture into 4 equal portions.
- Gently shape each portion into a round patty about ¾-inch thick.
- Make a shallow indentation in the center of each patty with your thumb. This helps them cook evenly and prevents puffing up.
Step 3: Make the Cola Glaze
- In a small saucepan, combine ¼ cup cola, ketchup, brown sugar, mustard, and a pinch of black pepper.
- Place over medium heat and bring to a gentle simmer.
- Stir frequently as the glaze thickens, about 5-7 minutes.
- Pro tip: Whisk continuously to prevent lumps and ensure a smooth glaze. Remove from heat once it reaches a syrupy consistency.
Step 4: Preheat and Prepare the Grill
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 375-400°F).
- Clean the grill grates with a grill brush and oil them lightly to prevent sticking.
- Toast your burger buns on the grill for 1-2 minutes until golden and slightly crispy. Set aside.
Step 5: Grill the Burgers
- Place the patties on the hot grill, indentation side up.
- Grill for about 4-5 minutes on the first side without pressing down.
- Flip the patties and brush the cooked side generously with the cola glaze.
- Grill for another 4 minutes, brushing the other side with glaze as well.
- If using cheese, add a slice on top during the last minute of cooking and close the grill lid to melt.
- Pro tip: Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. Aim for 160°F internal temperature for ground beef.
Step 6: Assemble and Serve
- Place each glazed burger patty on a toasted bun.
- Layer with your favorite toppings like lettuce, tomato, onion, and pickles.
- Add any extra sauces if desired.
- Serve immediately and enjoy!
Notes
Nutritional Value (Estimated per serving, without toppings)
- Calories: ~420 kcal
- Protein: 25g
- Fat: 28g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Sugar: 10g
- Fiber: 0g
- Sodium: ~450mg