Chili Cheeseburgers with Onion Strings

Chili Cheeseburgers bring together everything you want in a burger juicy beef patties with melty cheese crowned by savory warm chili and golden crisp onion strings all nestled inside a soft bun This is proper diner comfort food packed with flavor and always a crowd pleaser at backyard cookouts or casual family dinners I have found that once these hit the table smiles widen and the napkins always disappear quickly

The first time I made these I had no idea just how happy everyone would be my sister called these the best messy burger she’s ever had and they quickly became the highlight of summer barbecues

Ingredients

• Ground beef: look for 80 20 for extra juicy burgers the higher fat ensures tenderness
• Cheddar cheese: for a good melt and classic burger tang pick a block and slice fresh for best results
• Prepared chili: homemade or canned but go for thick and hearty so it stays on the burger
• Onion strings: fry your own or grab store bought crispy onions they add a crunch that everyone loves
• Hamburger buns: soft and sturdy brioche style buns hold up well to all the toppings
• Queso: optional but adds a rich creamy layer grab your favorite from the store or make it yourself
• Salt and black pepper: simple seasoning lets those toppings shine choose flaked salt if possible for better flavor
• Butter: for toasting the buns richer flavor and texture if you brush on a little before grilling

Step-by-Step Instructions

Form the burger patties:

Shape your ground beef into patties about three quarters inch thick and wider than your buns make a gentle indentation in the center this helps them cook evenly

Season the patties:

Sprinkle both sides with salt and pepper right before you grill this brings out the natural beef flavor

Grill the patties:

Heat your grill or grill pan to medium high place the patties on and let them sear cook without moving for four to seven minutes on the first side depending on your doneness preference when juices begin to pool flip them gently

Add cheese:

In the last minute of cooking lay a slice of cheddar on each patty cover with a lid or foil if possible to melt the cheese thoroughly without overcooking the meat

Toast the buns:

Brush the cut sides of your buns with a touch of butter place them face down on the grill or in a skillet for a minute or until lightly crisped this step adds texture and prevents sogginess

Warm the chili:

Gently heat your chili in a small saucepan until steaming but not boiling stir often so it does not stick

Assemble the burgers:

Place the cheesy patty on the bottom bun ladle a generous spoonful of warm chili over the top then spoon on your queso and scatter a big handful of crispy onion strings

Top and serve:

Finish with the top bun press down very lightly and serve right away I always set out extra napkins since these are beautifully messy

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Every single time I make these the cheddar and chili combo is still my favorite moment it is pure nostalgia from family game nights where the table talk faded and everyone just dove in

Storage Tips

Leftover cooked patties keep well tightly wrapped in the fridge for up to three days To reheat place in a covered skillet over medium low until warmed through However assemble fresh so the buns do not go soggy and keep chili and toppings separate until ready to eat

Ingredient Substitutions

If you want to lighten things up try ground turkey or plant based patties For cheese mix it up with pepper jack or Monterey jack If you do not have crispy onion strings thinly sliced raw onion or even sautéed onions work for crunch and sweetness

Serving Suggestions

Serve these burgers with homemade oven fries pickled jalapeños or a big green salad For extra decadence drizzle more queso or pile on sliced avocado My family likes to set out a platter with all the toppings so everyone builds their perfect burger

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Burger in American Culture

Chili cheeseburgers trace their roots to Midwestern diners where hearty chili started topping everything from hot dogs to burgers It is a comfort classic with a twist and always a showstopper for casual game day parties or weekends when you want something extra fun for dinner

Commonly Asked Questions

→ What type of ground beef yields the juiciest burgers?

Choose ground beef with 15–20% fat content for tender, juicy results. Leaner beef tends to dry out during grilling.

→ How should I cook burger patties for my preferred doneness?

For rare, grill each side 4 minutes at 125℉; medium-rare 5 minutes at 135℉; medium 6–7 minutes at 145℉; well-done 8–9 minutes at 160℉.

→ Why should I avoid pressing down on burger patties while grilling?

Pressing patties forces out juices and fat, resulting in a dry, less flavorful burger. Flip, don’t press, for best texture.

→ When should cheese be added for optimal melt?

Add cheese about one minute before removing the patties from the grill. This allows perfect melt without overcooking.

→ What’s the benefit of toasting buns?

Toasting adds a crisp texture and helps prevent buns from becoming soggy with juicy toppings. Spread a bit of butter for extra flavor.

→ How do crispy onion strings elevate the burger?

Onion strings deliver extra crunch and savory depth, pairing well with the creamy melted cheese and spicy chili topping.