Celebrate Labor Day with Jalapeño Cheddar Grassfed Burgers!

Can you believe it's almost September?

I'm headed up to Portland, Oregon to spend the long weekend with my husband's family. Fortunately for me, Portland is a foodie and wine mecca. So I'll be chowing down and sipping lots of pinot. My very brave friend volunteered to doggie sit the Adorable Monster in LA. I'm sure they'll have a blast together—I just hope he doesn't terrorize her too much!

Before I head for the Pacific Northwest, I wanted to leave you with one of my favorite grilling recipes. These scrumptious burgers are made with tender grassfed beef, which is mixed with spices, like paprika and cumin, and fresh herbs, like parsley and dill.

I finish them with thick slices of jalapeño cheddar cheese for a nice tangy kick. Then I top the burgers with wild arugula and heirloom tomato slices (super in season right now). Finish them with your favorite burger fixings. I'm sure you'll want more than one!

Serve these burgers with Snap Pea & Bell Pepper Salad and/or Summer Potato Salad

Jalapeño Cheddar Grassfed Burgers

Serves 4 people
Cooking time: about 25 minutes

Ingredients

1 pound grassfed ground beef
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/4 teaspoon chili flakes
1/4 cup chopped fresh herbs (parsley, dill, cilantro)
1 egg
2 tablespoons breadcrumbs
2 tablespoons olive oil
salt and freshly ground pepper
4 slices of jalapeño cheddar
1 cup wild arugula
4 slices heirloom tomatoes
4 whole wheat buns, toasted

Directions

1. Preheat cast iron skillet or outdoor grill to medium high heat. 

2. In a mixing bowl, combine the beef, egg, spices, herbs, and breadcrumbs. Add a generous pinch of salt and some pepper. Mix well. Shape the mixture into 4 patties, depending on desired size. Brush with the olive oil. 

Either cook stovetop in a cast iron griddle or on the grill, flipping once, until cooked to desired doneness. Once the burgers have almost finished cooking, top with the cheese and allow it to melt. Note: you may place the cast iron pan under the broiler to fully melt the cheese if needed.

5. To serve, place each patty on a toasted bun. Top each with a tomato slice and some arugula. Garnish with ketchup, mustard, or any other burger fixings as desired. Enjoy!