Green Chile Pimento Cheese Burgers | New Mexico | Ground Beef, Hatch Chiles, Pimento Cheese

I can’t get enough of Green Chile Pimento Cheese Burgers, fusing New Mexico’s smoky Hatch chiles with Southern pimento cheese for a fiery twist on juicy ground beef patties wrapped in bacon. It’s simple to whip up with cheddar, green chiles, and basic seasonings, creating a comforting, flavorful meal that’ll have you craving more. If you’re curious about history, tips, and variations, there’s plenty more just ahead.

History

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Green Chile Pimento Cheese Burgers blend Southern American culinary traditions with Southwestern influences, originating from the early 20th-century Southern staple of pimento cheese—made from cheddar, pimentos, and mayonnaise—which was later fused with green chiles like those from New Mexico’s Hatch Valley for added spice and flavor.

Regionally, variations might include Texas-style burgers with smoked meats or Carolina adaptations using local peppers, signifying a cultural fusion that highlights the adaptability of comfort food across the U.S. South and Southwest.

These burgers are traditionally served at casual gatherings, barbecues, tailgates, or family picnics, embodying a sense of community and regional pride in everyday American cuisine.

Ingredients

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– First up, 1 pound of ground beef****: You know, this is the heart and soul of any burger, right?

Go for that fresh, quality stuff that makes your patties juicy and full of flavor—think of it as the canvas for all that tasty chaos we’re building on top.

– Salt and black pepper, to taste: Ah, the dynamic duo that wakes up every bite—who could skip these?

Just a sprinkle here and there to season that beef, keeping things simple yet oh-so-satisfying, because let’s face it, a bland burger is nobody’s friend.

– 4 slices of bacon: Now, here’s where things get fun—crispy, smoky bacon that wraps around your burger like a cozy blanket, adding that irresistible crunch and a hint of indulgence.

I mean, is there anything bacon can’t improve? Probably not, if we’re being honest.

• 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese: This cheesy wonder melts into pure goodness, giving your pimento mix that sharp, creamy kick—picture it stretching just right between bites, because who doesn’t dream of that perfect cheese pull on a burger?
• 1/2 cup of diced pimentos: These little red gems bring a sweet, tangy vibe to the party, sneaking in just enough color and zest to make your spread pop, almost like nature’s way of saying, “Hey, add some flair.”
• 1/4 cup of diced green chiles, like those Hatch ones: Oh, the spice of life in a tiny package—these chiles add a mild heat that dances on your tongue, turning a simple burger into something with real Southwestern swagger, and isn’t that just the best surprise?
• 1/4 cup of mayonnaise: Creamy, smooth, and holding it all together—think of mayo as the unsung hero that binds your pimento cheese without stealing the show, because sometimes, the quiet ones make the biggest difference.
• 4 hamburger buns: Soft, sturdy, and ready to cradle your masterpiece—choose ones that toast up nicely, so they don’t fall apart mid-bite, as if they’re saying, “I’ve got your back on this burger adventure.”
• Optional toppings like lettuce, tomato, and onion: Now, for the fresh finish—crisp lettuce for crunch, juicy tomato for that burst of brightness, and onion for a little extra bite; it’s like customizing your burger to your mood, because why not make it your own little creation?
• And if you’re feeling fancy, a bit more salt and black pepper to taste, just for seasoning that bacon before you wrap it: Wait, did I say fancy?

More like a playful twist—sprinkle a touch on the bacon for extra oomph, turning simple strips into something almost gourmet, though let’s not kid ourselves, I’m no chef, just here for the fun.

Cooking Steps

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Let’s jump into making those Green Chile Pimento Cheese Burgers, where simple ingredients turn into a flavor-packed adventure that’ll have you rethinking your usual grill game.

First off, start by prepping your pimento cheese mixture—grab 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese, 1/2 cup of diced pimentos, 1/4 cup of diced green chiles, and 1/4 cup of mayonnaise, then mix them together in a bowl until it’s all creamy and combined.

You know, it’s like creating a little spicy surprise that hides in every bite, wondering if it’ll steal the show or just play nice.

Now, for the main event, take 1 pound of ground beef and season it with salt and black pepper to taste—nothing fancy, just enough to wake up those flavors without overdoing it.

Form the beef into four equal patties, each one about 1/2 inch thick, and wrap each patty with a slice of bacon, securing it if needed so it doesn’t unravel like a mischievous scarf on a windy day.

Cook those patties on a preheated grill or skillet over medium heat for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until they’re juicy inside and the bacon crisps up just right, flipping once for even browning.

While the patties rest for a couple of minutes, toast your 4 hamburger buns on the grill or in a toaster for that perfect golden edge that adds crunch without falling apart mid-bite.

1. While the patties rest for a couple of minutes, toast your 4 hamburger buns on the grill or in a toaster for that perfect golden edge that adds crunch without falling apart mid-bite.
2. Spread a generous dollop of your homemade pimento cheese mixture onto each bun, then layer on the cooked patty along with optional toppings like lettuce, tomato, and onion for a fresh contrast.
3. If you’re up for a twist, season those 4 slices of bacon with a bit more salt and black pepper before wrapping, turning an already tasty step into something playfully over-the-top, as if you’re giving your burger a secret upgrade it didn’t know it needed.

Assemble everything on the buns, stack it high, and serve right away—because who wants a burger that’s not piping hot and ready to impress, right?

This way, you’re not just cooking; you’re crafting a meal that feels personal and fun, even if your kitchen skills are still a work in progress.

Tips and Variations

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If you’re feeling adventurous with your Green Chile Pimento Cheese Burgers, why not swap in pepper jack cheese for the cheddar to amp up that spicy kick, or mix in a dash of smoked paprika for a smoky twist that makes every bite feel like a mini fiesta?

You might wonder, does it really make a difference—well, it can turn a simple patty into something that teases your taste buds just right, especially if you’re aiming for that perfect balance without overwhelming the fresh green chiles.

For a lighter take, try using ground turkey instead of beef, wrapping it with turkey bacon to keep things lean yet crispy, and maybe even pile on avocado slices for creaminess that hugs the burger like an old friend.

Oh, and here’s a playful nudge—if your pimento mix ends up a bit too thick, like mine sometimes does when I’m not paying attention, just stir in a splash more mayo to smooth it out, turning what could be a kitchen mishap into a delicious variation that keeps everyone coming back for seconds.

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