Happy National Cheeseburger Day

While there are a number of theories on how ‘cheese’ on a cheeseburger became popular, none have been proven, verified or even universally agreed upon. Most notions tie back to individual restaurant owners in small chains in the early 1900’s. People testing, trying and inventing better recipes and tastier menus. 

So, as cheese makers and innovators today, we raise our burgers fully loaded with cheese in honor of those making better food for people to love.

Whether it’s Cheddar, Monterey Jack, Gouda or a Ghost Pepper Jack – stack those slices high tonight – and if you need some inspiration, here’s a recipe we’ve tested, tried and enjoyed in our culinary kitchen at the Cheese Innovation Center:

BBQ Sweet Onion Gouda Slider

Ingredients

• 8 oz. 80/20 Ground Beef
• 2 oz. Diced Sweet Onion Gouda Cheese (diced about ¼” wide)***
• 2 oz. Flour
• 1 Tsp. Paprika
• Pinch of Salt & Pepper
• 1 Onion, Thinly Sliced
• 2 oz. Thinly Sliced Sweet Onion Gouda Cheese (about 4 slices, cut big enough to cover the slider)
• BBQ Sauce, personal preference
• Slider Buns

*** Sweet Onion Gouda comes from our newly launched Gartisan cheese line, so if you have this sample on hand you are in luck, if not (and until this makes it to the market) substitute Gouda slices, then caramelized red onions (prep these by glazing them with a splash of balsamic vinegar and a teaspoon of sugar)***

Directions

1. In a mixing bowl, mix together ground beef and small, diced cheese pieces until well integrated. Divide out 4, round slider patties.
2. Heat oil to 350 degrees (deep fryer preferred).
3. In a separate bowl, mix flour with paprika and salt & pepper. Take onions and dredge with flour. Shake off excess flour and set aside.
4. In a saucepan on medium heat begin cooking sliders. Season with salt & pepper. Cook about 2-3 minutes on each side or until cooked to your liking (this will make medium rare).
5. While sliders are cooking, place onions in deep fryer or oiled skillet and cook until golden brown, about 1-2 minutes. Remove from oil, set aside.
6. When burgers are close to cooked, place thin Sweet Onion Gouda slices on top. Cover for 10 seconds or until cheese is melted.
7. Remove sliders from heat and place on slider bun. Drizzle BBQ sauce and place onions on top.
8. Top with bun and enjoy!