Hamburger Jazz
Short, Catchy Intro
So you are craving something tasty but too lazy to spend forever in the kitchen, huh? Same. This little number I call Hamburger Jazz is basically a classic burger with a tiny musical twist from mushrooms and bell pepper that make your taste buds do a happy little dance. It cooks up fast, cleans up faster, and tastes like you actually planned dinner like a domestic wizard.
If you want a cozy cousin to this vibe, check out this Amish hamburger steak bake for a beefy bake that hits similar comfort notes. Trust me, both recipes deserve a spot in your weeknight rotation.
Why This Recipe is Awesome
Why is Hamburger Jazz so awesome? Let me count the reasons in a casual, totally not obsessive way. First, it mixes veggies right into the patty so you score flavor and texture without doing side dishes like some kind of overachieving chef. Second, the soy sauce and Worcestershire sauce team up to give savory depth so your burger does not taste like utterly plain meat. Third, this recipe is basically idiot proof. Seriously, even if your kitchen skills include burning water you will be fine.
Also, it plays well with improvisation. Want to toss in cheese, swap mushrooms, or sneak in some hot sauce for chaos? Go for it. This recipe forgives mistakes and rewards bold moves. IMO that is the hallmark of a great weeknight meal.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
- 1/2 cup finely chopped green bell pepper
- 1/2 cup finely chopped mushrooms
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup bread crumbs
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 4 hamburger buns
- Lettuce, tomato, and condiments optional but welcome
Yes you can be loose with the veggies if you are in a hurry. No judgment here. Finely chopping keeps the patties tender and stops big chunks from falling out. Also bread crumbs are not just filler here; they bind things so your patties do not crumble like a bad relationship.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine ground beef, onion, bell pepper, mushrooms, soy sauce, bread crumbs, black pepper, garlic powder, and Worcestershire sauce. Mix until well combined.
- Form the mixture into 4 patties.
- Preheat a grill or skillet over medium heat. Cook the patties for 5-6 minutes on each side, or until cooked through.
- Serve on hamburger buns with lettuce, tomato, and your favorite condiments.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Thinking you do not need to preheat the skillet or grill. That is a rookie move. A hot surface gives you a nice crust and keeps the patty from sticking.
- Overmixing the meat like you are kneading dough. Mix just until combined. Overmixing tightens the meat and makes dry, tough burgers. No one wants that.
- Making patties too thick if you want them done quickly. Thick patties take longer and often end up unevenly cooked. Flatten them to about 3/4 inch if you like even doneness.
- Skipping the rest after cooking. Let the patties rest a couple minutes so juices settle. Grab your phone, not a knife.
- Drowning the burger in condiments before tasting. Add a little, taste, then decide if it needs more. You got options, use them wisely.
Alternatives & Substitutions
- No ground beef on hand? Use ground turkey or a beef and pork mix for richer flavor. Just adjust seasoning because turkey tends to be milder.
- Hate mushrooms? Swap them for grated zucchini or extra onions. I actually like zucchini for moisture and sneaky veg points.
- No bread crumbs? Use crushed crackers or an equal amount of rolled oats pulsed briefly in a blender. Works surprisingly well.
- Want a vegetarian twist? Try a plant based ground beef alternative and the rest of the mix still applies. Texture differs but the flavor idea survives.
- Prefer more umami? Add a teaspoon of ketchup or a splash more soy sauce. If you want a more homey bake vibe, see how this one compares with a hearty hamburger steak bake that leans into gravy territory.
Personally I like swapping mushrooms for zucchini sometimes. It feels kind of rebellious but in a good way. FYI if you use turkey, add a bit more soy sauce for depth.
FAQ
Q Why use soy sauce in a burger mix
A Why not? It gives savory depth and keeps the meat juicy. You will notice the difference.
Q Can I make these ahead and freeze them
A Sure can. Form patties, flash freeze on a tray, then bag them. Cook from frozen but add a minute or two per side. Easy peasy.
Q Do I have to use Worcestershire sauce
A Not strictly. It adds a tangy umami hit. If you skip it, add a little extra soy sauce or a tiny splash of balsamic vinegar. Your call.
Q How do I know when they are done
A Use a meat thermometer if you want precision. Aim for 160 F for ground beef. If you do not own a thermometer, look for clear juices and no pink in the center. Cut one open if you are unsure.
Q Can I broil these instead of grilling or skillet cooking
A Yes. Broil on a sheet with a rack for 4 to 6 minutes per side depending on thickness. Watch closely because broilers have feelings and they will burn things fast.
Q Will bread crumbs make the burgers dry
A Not if you use the right ratio. Bread crumbs help bind and hold moisture. If you worry, add a tablespoon of milk or an egg to boost juiciness.
Q Any tips for toppings if I want to impress without trying too hard
A Keep it classic: good cheese, crisp lettuce, a tomato slice, and maybe caramelized onions. Or go wild with pickled jalapenos and a slather of aioli if you feel extra.
Final Thoughts
You just made Hamburger Jazz and it is a winner. Quick, forgiving, and full of savory notes that make dinner feel like an achievement. Now go impress someone or yourself with your new burger skills. You earned it.
Print
Hamburger Jazz
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Regular
Description
A quick and delicious burger recipe packed with vegetables and umami flavors for a fun twist on a classic.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
- 1/2 cup finely chopped green bell pepper
- 1/2 cup finely chopped mushrooms
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup bread crumbs
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 4 hamburger buns
- Lettuce, tomato, and condiments (optional)
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine ground beef, onion, bell pepper, mushrooms, soy sauce, bread crumbs, black pepper, garlic powder, and Worcestershire sauce. Mix until well combined.
- Form the mixture into 4 patties.
- Preheat a grill or skillet over medium heat. Cook the patties for 5-6 minutes on each side, or until cooked through.
- Serve on hamburger buns with lettuce, tomato, and your favorite condiments.
Notes
Let the patties rest for a couple of minutes after cooking to allow the juices to settle.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 burger
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 1g
- Carbohydrates: 39g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: burger, quick dinner, weeknight meal, savory, easy recipe
