Why You’ll Love this Chilliburger Recipe
If you’re looking for a hearty meal that’s both simple and delicious, you’ll love this Chilliburger recipe.
I can’t tell you how many times this dish has saved me on busy weeknights. It’s packed with flavor, thanks to the perfect blend of Manwich and tomato sauce, and it’s incredibly easy to whip up.
You don’t need to be a culinary expert; browning some ground beef and mixing in the sauces is all it takes. Plus, it’s versatile! You can serve it on hamburger buns for a classic twist or get creative with toppings.
The best part? It’s a crowd-pleaser, so whether I’m hosting friends or feeding the family, this Chilliburger never disappoints.
You won’t regret trying it!
Ingredients of Chilliburger
When it comes to making a Chilliburger, the first thing you’ll need is the right ingredients. This dish is all about simplicity and flavor, and luckily, gathering what you need won’t take much time at all. You can easily find these items at your local grocery store, and if you’ve got a busy schedule, that’s a win in my book.
So, without further ado, let’s check out what you’ll need to whip up this delicious meal that’s sure to satisfy everyone at the table.
Ingredients:
- 3 lbs ground beef
- 1 (16 ounce) can Manwich sloppy joe mix
- 1 (16 ounce) can tomato sauce
- Hamburger buns (for serving)
Now, let’s talk a bit about these ingredients. Ground beef is the star of the show, giving you that juicy, hearty base. You can opt for lean ground beef if you want to cut back on some of the grease, but I’ll admit, a little fat adds flavor.
The Manwich and tomato sauce combo is what really brings this dish to life, creating that tangy, savory goodness that coats each bite. And don’t forget the hamburger buns; they’re essential for holding all that deliciousness together.
Plus, the options for toppings are endless—think cheese, pickles, or even jalapeños if you’re feeling adventurous. Just remember to have fun with it. Cooking should be enjoyable, after all, not a chore.
How to Make Chilliburger
Making a Chilliburger is as straightforward as it gets, and trust me, no culinary degree is required for this one. First things first, grab 3 lbs of ground beef. Now, you’ll want to brown that beef in a large skillet over medium heat. Don’t forget to keep an eye on it, or you might end up with a kitchen that smells like a charred campfire.
Once the beef is nice and browned, drain off the excess grease like a pro. This is where the magic starts to happen.
Next, mix in 1 (16 ounce) can of Manwich sloppy joe mix and 1 (16 ounce) can of tomato sauce. Stir it all together until everything is well combined; the colors will start to blend beautifully, and oh boy, the aroma will have your stomach growling.
Allow it to simmer on low heat for about 10 to 15 minutes. You can let it hang out on the stove while you toast your hamburger buns if you want that crispy edge. Trust me, a warm, crispy bun makes all the difference.
Once everything is heated through and ready to go, you’re just a few minutes away from serving up a delicious meal that’ll have everyone asking for seconds—maybe even thirds if you’re feeling generous.
Spoon that hearty beef mixture onto your hamburger buns, and here’s the fun part: toppings! Cheese, pickles, jalapeños—go wild! I once topped mine with a handful of crushed potato chips because, well, I was feeling adventurous. It added a great crunch, so don’t be afraid to experiment.
Just remember, this isn’t just a meal; it’s an experience. So, gather around the table, dig in, and enjoy the satisfying chaos that’s a good Chilliburger.
Chilliburger Substitutions & Variations
While you can stick to the classic Chilliburger recipe, there’s a world of substitutions and variations that can elevate your dish to new heights.
For a healthier twist, try using ground turkey or chicken instead of beef. If you’re looking to spice things up, add some diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to the mix.
You might also experiment with different sauces, like BBQ or a zesty salsa, to create unique flavors. For a vegetarian option, substitute the meat with lentils or black beans.
Don’t forget about toppings! Fresh avocado, pickled onions, or jalapeño slices can bring an exciting crunch.
The possibilities are endless, so let your creativity shine and customize your Chilliburger to suit your taste!
What to Serve with Chilliburger
After you’ve customized your Chilliburger with tasty substitutions and toppings, it’s time to think about the perfect sides that can complement this hearty dish.
I love serving crispy sweet potato fries alongside my Chilliburger; they add a delightful sweetness that balances the savory flavors.
A fresh garden salad tossed with a light vinaigrette also works wonders, providing a revitalizing contrast.
If you’re in the mood for something comforting, creamy coleslaw can be a fantastic choice, its crunch pairing well with the burger’s richness.
For a bit of heat, I often whip up some spicy potato wedges.
Don’t forget a cold beverage; a chilled soda or iced tea pairs perfectly.
Enjoy your meal!
Additional Tips & Notes
To guarantee your Spicy Manwich Chilliburger turns out perfectly, I recommend prepping all your ingredients before you start cooking. This makes the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.
Don’t hesitate to tweak the spice level to your liking; adding jalapeños or hot sauce can kick things up a notch. If you prefer a thicker sauce, let it simmer longer to reduce excess liquid.
For added flavor, consider sautéing some chopped onions and bell peppers with the ground beef.
Also, if you have leftovers, they store well in the fridge for a couple of days or can be frozen for future meals.
Finally, serve your burgers with your favorite toppings—cheese, pickles, or coleslaw add a delicious twist!