Classic Southern Slugburger

Ingredients

• 1 pound (450g) ground beef 1 pound (450g) ground beef
• 1/2 cup (60g) breadcrumbs 1/2 cup (60g) breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup (30g) finely chopped onions 1/4 cup (30g) finely chopped onions
• 1 teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional) 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
• 1/2 cup (60g) cornmeal 1/2 cup (60g) cornmeal
• 1/4 cup (30g) all-purpose flour 1/4 cup (30g) all-purpose flour
• Vegetable oil, for frying Vegetable oil, for frying
• Soft burger buns Soft burger buns
• Mustard, pickles, and onions for serving Mustard, pickles, and onions for serving

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 350 kcal / 1465 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 20g, 7g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 20g, 2g
• Protein: 22g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, chopped onions, salt, black pepper, paprika, and cayenne pepper (if desired). Mix well until all the ingredients are evenly incorporated.
2. 2.
   Shape the mixture into patties of your desired size.
3. 3.
   In a separate bowl, combine the cornmeal and flour.
4. 4.
   Heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet or frying pan over medium heat.
5. 5.
   Dip each patty into the cornmeal and flour mixture, ensuring it is coated evenly.
6. 6.
   Carefully place the coated patties into the hot oil and fry until golden brown on both sides, approximately 4-5 minutes per side.
7. 7.
   Once cooked, transfer the patties to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
8. 8.
   Toast the burger buns lightly, if desired.
9. 9.
   Assemble the Slugburgers by placing the cooked patties on the buns and topping them with mustard, pickles, and onions.
10. 10.
    Serve hot and enjoy the crispy and flavorful Classic Southern Slugburgers.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Ground beef — Choose lean ground beef for a healthier option. If you prefer a juicier patty, opt for ground beef with a slightly higher fat content.
• Cornmeal — Use fine or medium-grind cornmeal for a smoother coating. Avoid using coarse cornmeal, as it may result in an overly gritty texture.

Tips & Tricks

• For an extra kick of flavor, add a dash of Worcestershire sauce or hot sauce to the beef mixture.
• If you prefer a spicier version, increase the amount of cayenne pepper in the beef mixture.
• To achieve a perfectly crispy coating, make sure the oil is hot enough before frying the patties.
• Customize your Slugburger by adding cheese, bacon, or other toppings of your choice.
• If you don't have breadcrumbs on hand, you can substitute them with crushed crackers or panko crumbs.

Serving advice

Serve the Classic Southern Slugburgers with a side of crispy French fries or coleslaw for a complete Southern meal experience.

Presentation advice

To enhance the presentation, serve the Slugburgers on a wooden board or a platter lined with parchment paper. Garnish with fresh parsley or a sprinkle of paprika for a pop of color.