Barbecued Pork Burgers: A Taste of Summer on a Bun

Some of my fondest childhood memories revolve around summer evenings, the smell of charcoal hanging heavy in the air, and the promise of a juicy burger. While beef always had its place, there was something special about my dad’s barbecued pork burgers. They were savory, slightly sweet, and always cooked with love, a testament to the simple joys of family, good food, and the great outdoors.

Recipe Overview: Barbecued Pork Burgers

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Servings: 4-5
• Yield: 4-5 burgers
• Dietary Type: Gluten-Free (if served without a bun)

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground lean pork
• 1 cup finely crushed saltine crackers
• ¼ cup chopped green onion
• 2 cloves garlic, chopped
• 1 tablespoon Creole mustard
• 2 tablespoons barbecue sauce
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 2 teaspoons rubbed sage

Equipment Needed

• Large mixing bowl
• Grill (charcoal or gas)
• Spatula

Instructions

1. In a large mixing bowl, gently combine the ground lean pork, finely crushed saltine crackers, chopped green onion, chopped garlic, Creole mustard, barbecue sauce, black pepper, dried thyme, and rubbed sage. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to tough burgers. Mix until just combined.

2. Divide the mixture into 4 or 5 equal portions. Gently form each portion into a patty, about ¾ inch thick. Make sure the patties are uniform in shape to ensure even cooking.

3. Place the formed patties on a plate or baking sheet. Cover with plastic wrap and re-chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This allows the patties to firm up, preventing them from falling apart on the grill.

4. Prepare your grill. If using a charcoal grill, light the charcoal and wait until it is covered with a light gray ash. If using a gas grill, preheat to medium heat (around 350-400°F or 175-200°C).

5. Place the chilled pork burgers on the grill grates.

6. Grill for approximately 5-7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).

7. When the burgers are halfway done (about 3 minutes per side), baste them with the same barbecue sauce used in the burger mixture. This will add a delicious caramelized flavor and help keep the burgers moist.

8. Remove the cooked burgers from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful burger.

Expert Tips & Tricks

• Don’t overmix the meat mixture: Overmixing develops the gluten in the pork, leading to a dense and tough burger. Mix gently until just combined.
• Chill the patties: Chilling the patties before grilling is crucial for preventing them from falling apart. It also helps them retain their shape and cook more evenly.
• Use a meat thermometer: The best way to ensure your pork burgers are cooked through is to use a meat thermometer. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the burger; it should read 160°F (71°C).
• Control the heat: Pork burgers can dry out easily, so it’s important to cook them over medium heat. Avoid high heat, which can cause the outside to burn before the inside is cooked through.
• Don’t press down on the burgers: Pressing down on the burgers while they cook releases the juices, resulting in a dry and less flavorful burger.
• Get Creative with your burger buns: Brioche or pretzel buns add flavor and pair nicely with pork burgers.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

Serve your barbecued pork burgers hot off the grill on your favorite buns. Toppings like lettuce, tomato, onion, pickles, and your favorite condiments are all great additions. Jalapeño-jack cheese adds a spicy kick. Serve with classic sides like coleslaw, potato salad, or corn on the cob for a complete summer meal.

Leftover cooked pork burgers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, wrap the burger in foil and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. You can also reheat them in a skillet over medium heat. For best results, add a little bit of water or broth to the skillet to keep the burgers moist. They can also be frozen for up to 2-3 months. Thaw completely in the refrigerator before reheating.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value
Calories	362 kcal	N/A
Calories from Fat	231 kcal	N/A
Total Fat	25.7g	39%
Saturated Fat	9.2g	45%
Cholesterol	81.7mg	27%
Sodium	289.8mg	12%
Total Carbohydrate	11g	3%
Dietary Fiber	1.1g	4%
Sugars	0.6g	2%
Protein	20.8g	41%

Variations & Substitutions

• Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the meat mixture for a touch of heat.
• Sweeten it up: Add a tablespoon of brown sugar or maple syrup to the meat mixture for a sweeter flavor.
• Use different types of mustard: Experiment with different types of mustard, such as Dijon or spicy brown mustard, for a unique flavor.
• Add cheese: Top the burgers with your favorite cheese, such as cheddar, Swiss, or provolone.
• Make it gluten-free: Use gluten-free crackers or breadcrumbs instead of saltine crackers. Serve on gluten-free buns.
• Creole Mustard Baste: For a bolder twist, baste with Creole mustard instead of BBQ sauce.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: Can I use ground pork sausage instead of ground lean pork?

A: Yes, you can use ground pork sausage, but be aware that it will add more fat and sodium to the burgers. Adjust the seasonings accordingly.

Q: How do I prevent the burgers from sticking to the grill?

A: Make sure the grill grates are clean and well-oiled before placing the burgers on them. You can also use a grill mat or a piece of aluminum foil.

Q: Can I cook these burgers in a skillet instead of on the grill?

A: Yes, you can cook these burgers in a skillet over medium heat. Cook for approximately 5-7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).

Q: What kind of barbecue sauce should I use?

A: You can use any type of barbecue sauce you like. Experiment with different flavors to find your favorite.

Q: Can I make these burgers ahead of time?

A: Yes, you can make the burger patties ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.

Final Thoughts

These barbecued pork burgers are a delightful twist on the classic burger, offering a savory and slightly sweet flavor that’s perfect for summer gatherings. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different variations and toppings to create your own signature burger. Whether you’re grilling for family, friends, or just yourself, these burgers are sure to be a hit. So fire up the grill, gather your loved ones, and enjoy the taste of summer on a bun!