Gourmet Plancha Grilled Beef Burgers

Posted on 28th November 2023

Bring the flavour and aroma of gourmet beef burgers to your own back garden with this recipe to be grilled on a wood-fired plancha plate or sizzle plate for juicy flavour.

Preparation Time: 30 minutes
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Serves: 4

Ingredients:

800g high-quality beef mince (preferably chuck or a blend of chuck and sirloin)
4 gourmet brioche buns
Sea salt and ground black pepper (for seasoning)
2 red onions, thinly sliced
4 slices mature cheddar cheese
4 lettuce leaves (e.g. gem lettuce, or butterhead lettuce)
2 large tomatoes, sliced
1 small jar of cornichons or gherkins, sliced
4 tbsp mayonnaise
2 tbsp Dijon mustard
1 tbsp olive oil (for brushing)

Instructions:

Preheat your grilling surface: Begin by preheating your plancha grill or sizzle plate. If using wood or charcoal, allow your chosen fuel to burn down until you have hot embers, then spread them around to provide even heat.

Burger Patties: While waiting for the grill to get up to temperature, divide the beef mince into four equal parts. Gently form into burger patties without overworking the meat. The patties should be about 2cm thick. Season both sides of each patty generously with sea salt and ground black pepper.

Grilling the Patties: Once the plancha or sizzle plate is hot, brush it lightly with olive oil. Place the beef patties on the plancha. Allow them to cook for about 4-5 minutes on one side until they have a nice crust, then flip and cook for another 4-5 minutes. About 1 minute before the patties are done, place a slice of cheddar cheese on each patty to melt.

Buns & Onions: Split the brioche buns in half and toast them lightly on the plancha. Brush them with a bit of olive oil for added flavour and crispiness. Push the burger patties to a cooler part of the plancha plate, add the thinly sliced red onions, and sauté them until they are soft and slightly caramelised.

Sauce Preparation: In a small bowl, mix the mayonnaise and Dijon mustard until well combined.

Assembling the Burger: Spread the Dijon-mayo mix on the bottom half of each toasted brioche bun. Place a lettuce leaf, followed by a tomato slice, on each bun. Next, lay a burger patty with melted cheese on top. Finally, add the caramelised onions and sliced cornichons or gherkins, and top with the other half of the brioche bun.

Serve: Serve your gourmet burger immediately. It pairs wonderfully with a side of chunky chips or a fresh salad, and perhaps a cold craft beer or a nice glass of red wine.

Tip: For a more personalised touch, feel free to add additional toppings or switch out ingredients based on personal preference or what’s seasonal and local to you. Enjoy your gourmet burger experience!