Caprese Burger

Ingredients

Ground beef

1 pound (80/20 blend recommended)

Salt

to taste

Black pepper

to taste

Fresh mozzarella

8 ounces, sliced

Tomatoes

2 large, sliced

Fresh basil leaves

1 cup, packed

Balsamic glaze

1/4 cup

Hamburger buns

4, preferably brioche or whole wheat

Instructions

1. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat (about 400°F / 200°C).
2. In a mixing bowl, season the ground beef with salt and pepper. Gently mix to incorporate the seasoning without overworking the meat.
3. Divide the beef into four equal portions and shape each portion into a patty, making a slight indentation in the center of each patty to prevent them from puffing up while cooking.
4. Place the patties on the preheated grill. Grill for approximately 5 minutes on one side.
5. Flip the patties and grill for an additional 5 minutes, or until they reach your desired level of doneness (160°F / 71°C for medium).
6. During the last minute of cooking, place a slice of fresh mozzarella on each patty to allow it to melt slightly.
7. Remove the patties from the grill and let them rest for a minute while you prepare the buns.
8. Toast the hamburger buns on the grill for 1-2 minutes until golden brown.
9. Assemble each burger by placing a patty on the bottom half of a bun. Top with a slice of tomato, 2-3 basil leaves, and a generous drizzle of balsamic glaze.
10. Add the top half of the bun and serve immediately.