Description
Cajun Surf & Turf Burger
“Juicy beef patty topped with Cajun-seasoned shrimp, melted cheddar cheese, and a creamy spicy sauce—all on a buttery brioche bun!”
Ingredients:
For the Beef Patty:
1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend)
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp smoked paprika
1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
1 tbsp butter (for cooking)
For the Cajun Shrimp:
8 large shrimp, peeled & deveined
1 tbsp olive oil
1/2 tsp Cajun seasoning
1/2 tsp smoked paprika
1 tbsp lemon juice
For the Spicy Sauce:
1/2 cup mayonnaise
1 tbsp hot sauce
1 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp smoked paprika
1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
1 tsp lemon juice
For Assembly:
2 brioche buns
2 slices cheddar cheese
1/2 cup shredded lettuce
Instructions:
Prepare the Beef Patty:
Mix ground beef with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and Worcestershire sauce.
Form into two patties and set aside.
Cook the Shrimp:
Toss shrimp in olive oil, Cajun seasoning, and smoked paprika.
Sauté in a hot pan for 2 minutes per side until slightly charred.
Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the shrimp and set aside.
Cook the Burgers:
Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and melt butter.
Cook burger patties for about 4 minutes per side until browned.
In the last minute, add cheddar cheese on top and cover to melt.
Make the Spicy Sauce:
In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, hot sauce, garlic powder, smoked paprika, parsley, and lemon juice.
Assemble the Burger:
Toast brioche buns and spread spicy sauce on both sides.
Add shredded lettuce, place the cheesy burger patty, top with Cajun shrimp, and drizzle more spicy sauce.
Serve & Enjoy!
Pair with crispy fries or onion rings for the ultimate meal!
Pro Tip: Add crispy bacon or a fried egg for extra indulgence!
Step-by-Step Guide
1. Mix the Patty: In a bowl, gently combine the ground beef with salt, pepper, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and Worcestershire sauce. Avoid overmixing to keep the patty tender. Form into two equal-sized patties, slightly wider than your buns, as they will shrink.
2. Season the Shrimp: Pat the shrimp dry with a paper towel. In a separate bowl, toss them with olive oil, Cajun seasoning, and smoked paprika until evenly coated.
3. Make the Sauce: Whisk together all spicy sauce ingredients in a small bowl. Cover and refrigerate to let the flavors meld while you cook.
4. Cook the Shrimp: Heat a skillet or pan over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp in a single layer and cook for 1-2 minutes per side until opaque and slightly charred. Remove from heat, drizzle with lemon juice, and set aside.
5. Cook the Burgers: In the same pan (add butter if needed), cook the patties over medium-high heat for 3-4 minutes per side for medium doneness. In the final minute, place a cheese slice on each patty and cover the pan to melt.
6. Toast the Buns: Lightly toast the brioche buns in a toaster, oven, or on the stovetop cut-side down.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this decadent burger with classic, crispy french fries or beer-battered onion rings. For a lighter side, a cool, tangy coleslaw or a simple garden salad works perfectly. Consider pairing with an ice-cold lager, a zesty lemonade, or an iced tea to balance the rich, spicy flavors.
How-to Summary
Create a flavor-packed Cajun Surf & Turf Burger by first mixing seasoned ground beef into patties. Sauté shrimp with Cajun spices. Prepare a creamy, spicy sauce. Cook the patties, melt cheese on top, and briefly toast the brioche buns. Assemble by spreading sauce on the bun, adding lettuce, the cheesy patty, and the spiced shrimp. Drizzle with extra sauce and serve immediately.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen shrimp? Yes, ensure they are fully thawed and patted very dry before seasoning to prevent steaming and to achieve a good sear.
What can I substitute for the hot sauce in the spicy sauce? Sriracha is an excellent substitute, or use a chipotle pepper in adobo sauce (minced) for a smoky heat.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free? Ensure your Worcestershire sauce and hot sauce are gluten-free brands, and use certified gluten-free buns.
Can I cook the burgers on a grill? Absolutely! Grill the patties over medium-high heat. For the shrimp, use a grill basket or skewers to prevent them from falling through the grates.
How do I prevent my burger patties from puffing up in the middle? Create a shallow dimple (about 1/2 inch deep) in the center of each raw patty with your thumb. This helps them cook evenly and stay flat.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overmixing the Beef: This compacts the meat, leading to a tough, dense patty. Mix just until ingredients are combined.
- Wet Shrimp: Failing to dry shrimp before seasoning causes them to steam instead of sauté, losing the desired texture.
- Moving Patties Too Soon: Let the patties develop a crust by not moving them for the first few minutes of cooking.
- Skipping Bun Toasting: A untoasted bun will quickly become soggy from the juicy patty and sauces.
- Overcrowding the Pan: Cook shrimp and patties in batches if necessary to ensure proper browning.
Conclusion
The Cajun Surf & Turf Burger is a show-stopping meal that masterfully combines land and sea. By following the detailed steps and tips provided, you can avoid common pitfalls and execute this gourmet-style burger at home. The interplay of the juicy, seasoned beef, spicy shrimp, and creamy sauce on a buttery bun creates an unforgettable dining experience. Don’t forget to customize with suggested add-ons like bacon for your ultimate version. Enjoy the process and the delicious results!