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Smoked Cajun Burgers with Cheese

Juicy smoked burgers infused with Cajun seasoning, topped with melted cheddar, caramelized onions, and fresh arugula on brioche buns.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 burgers
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Cajun
Calories: 580

Ingredients
  

Burger Patties
  • 2 lbs ground beef (80/20)
  • 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1 tsp kosher salt
  • 0.5 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
Toppings
  • 1 large onion, thinly sliced caramelized
  • 2 tbsp butter for onions
  • 4 slices sharp cheddar cheese
  • 4 pieces brioche buns toasted
  • 0.5 cup fresh arugula
  • 2 tbsp mayonnaise
  • 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
  • fresh parsley for garnish

Equipment

  • Mixing bowls
  • Grill or smoker
  • Cast-iron skillet
  • Tongs

Method
 

  1. Mix beef with Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and Worcestershire sauce until just combined.
  2. Shape into 4 patties with a slight dimple in the center.
  3. Preheat grill or smoker to medium-high heat and add wood chips if smoking.
  4. Caramelize onions in butter until golden brown, about 15 minutes.
  5. Grill patties 4–5 minutes per side until desired doneness, adding cheese in the last minute to melt.
  6. Toast brioche buns on grill until golden.
  7. Assemble burgers with mayo, Dijon, cheesy patty, onions, arugula, and parsley. Serve hot.

Notes

These burgers are smoky, cheesy, and packed with bold Cajun flavor. Perfect for cookouts or cozy weeknight dinners.