Baked Hamburgers

Baked Hamburgers Recipe - Delicious & Easy American Classic

Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 1 hour | Servings: 4

Introduction

Baked Hamburgers offer a delightful twist on the classic hamburger, incorporating a blend of vegetables and seasoning to create a wholesome, oven-baked meal. This recipe is perfect for those seeking a convenient yet delicious dinner option. By baking the hamburger with potatoes, green beans, and corn, you not only infuse the meat with the flavors of the vegetables but also ensure a balanced meal on a single tray. This method simplifies preparation and cleanup, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or relaxed weekend dinners.

History

The concept of baking hamburgers with vegetables in foil packets has its roots in campfire cooking, where easy preparation and minimal cleanup are key. This method of cooking, often referred to as "hobo dinners," became popular as a way to create a hearty meal with whatever ingredients were on hand. Over time, the technique found its way into home kitchens, where it was adapted for oven baking. The recipe has evolved, incorporating various ingredients and seasonings to enhance flavor and nutrition, but the essence of simplicity and wholesomeness remains the same.

Ingredients

1 to 2 lb (907 g) of ground chuck
2 to 3 medium sweet potatoes or potatoes
1 can of green beans
1 can of corn

How to prepare

Lay out a piece of foil that has been sprayed with cooking spray.
Place a hamburger patty on each piece of foil.
Add sliced potatoes, followed by green beans, and then corn.
Top with salt and pepper.
Wrap up each packet.
Cook at 400°F (204°C) for one hour.

Variations

For a spicier kick, add chili powder or cayenne pepper to the hamburger seasoning.
Substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner version of the dish.
Add cheese on top of the hamburger patty before sealing the foil packet for a melty, cheesy twist.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

To ensure your Baked Hamburgers turn out perfectly, consider the following tips:

- Use lean ground chuck for the best combination of flavor and texture.

- Thinly slice the potatoes to ensure they cook through evenly.

- Season the hamburger patties generously before adding the vegetables to enhance flavor.

- Make sure to seal the foil packets well to keep the steam in and cook the ingredients thoroughly.

- Let the packets rest for a few minutes after baking for the flavors to meld together.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Baked Hamburgers directly in their foil packets for a fun and informal presentation. Accompany with a side salad or a slice of crusty bread for a complete meal. For a lighter option, you can replace the potatoes with other vegetables such as zucchini or bell peppers.

Cooking Techniques

Baking in foil packets is a moist-heat cooking technique that steams the food inside, preserving flavors and nutrients. This method also allows for easy customization of each serving, accommodating different taste preferences and dietary restrictions.

Ingredient Substitutions

Sweet potatoes can be used in place of regular potatoes for a different flavor profile and additional nutrients.

- Fresh or frozen vegetables can be substituted for canned ones, depending on availability and preference.

Make Ahead Tips

Prepare the foil packets ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to a day before baking. This makes meal prep efficient and allows the flavors to meld together, enhancing the overall taste of the dish.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the opened foil packets with fresh herbs such as parsley or chives for a pop of color and freshness. Serve on a wooden board for a rustic look that complements the simplicity of the meal.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair Baked Hamburgers with a light, crisp salad to balance the richness of the meat and potatoes. For a beverage, a light beer or a glass of red wine complements the flavors of the dish well.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the contents in an oven-safe dish and bake at 350°F (177°C) until heated through, or microwave on high for 2-3 minutes.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

A single serving of Baked Hamburgers contains approximately 400-500 calories. This calorie count can vary based on the specific ingredients used and their quantities. This makes it a suitable main course for a balanced meal, providing sufficient energy without being overly calorie-dense.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Baked Hamburgers is a balanced meal that includes carbohydrates primarily from the potatoes and corn. Depending on the size of the potatoes used, a single serving may contain approximately 30-40 grams of carbohydrates. The corn adds about 10-15 grams of carbohydrates per serving. These carbohydrates provide energy and fiber, making this dish a satisfying and nutritious option.

Fats

The ground chuck used in this recipe contributes to the fat content of the dish. A serving of Baked Hamburgers made with 1 to 2 pounds of ground chuck will have approximately 15-25 grams of fat, depending on the leanness of the meat. The majority of this fat is unsaturated, which is a healthier option. To reduce the fat content, you can opt for leaner cuts of beef or even substitute with ground turkey or chicken.

Proteins

Baked Hamburgers are a good source of protein, primarily from the ground chuck. Each serving can provide approximately 20-30 grams of protein, essential for muscle repair and growth. The protein content can vary based on the amount and type of meat used, making this dish a flexible option to meet your dietary needs.

Vitamins and minerals

This recipe is rich in vitamins and minerals, thanks to the inclusion of green beans, corn, and potatoes. Green beans are a good source of Vitamin C, Vitamin K, and fiber. Corn contributes B-vitamins and potassium, while potatoes are high in Vitamin C, potassium, and Vitamin B6. Together, these vegetables enhance the nutritional profile of the dish, supporting overall health.

Alergens

This recipe is free from common allergens such as nuts, dairy, and gluten, making it suitable for individuals with these dietary restrictions. However, it's always important to check the labels of canned vegetables for any added ingredients that might contain allergens.

Summary

Baked Hamburgers provide a balanced meal with a good mix of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats, along with essential vitamins and minerals. This dish is relatively low in calories and free from common allergens, making it a nutritious and inclusive option for a family dinner.

Summary

Baked Hamburgers are a versatile, nutritious, and delicious meal option that combines the classic flavors of hamburgers with the wholesomeness of baked vegetables. This recipe is easy to prepare, customizable, and suitable for a wide range of dietary preferences, making it a perfect choice for family dinners or casual gatherings.

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of finding this recipe for the first time is still fresh in my mind. It was a warm summer day, and I was rummaging through my old recipe box, looking for something new to try. As I shuffled through the yellowed index cards and tattered magazine clippings, I came across a faded piece of paper with the words "Baked Hamburgers" scrawled across the top in my own handwriting.

I couldn't remember where I had gotten the recipe from, but I was intrigued. I had always been a fan of hamburgers, but I had never thought to bake them before. Curious, I decided to give it a try.

The ingredients were simple: ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, onion, Worcestershire sauce, and a few spices. I mixed everything together in a large bowl, shaping the mixture into patties and placing them on a baking sheet. As I slid the tray into the oven, I couldn't help but wonder how they would turn out.

The smell of sizzling meat filled the kitchen as the burgers baked, and I eagerly awaited the final result. When I pulled them out of the oven, they were golden brown and juicy, with a mouthwatering aroma that made my stomach growl.

I took a bite and was instantly transported to a culinary paradise. The flavors were rich and savory, the texture moist and tender. It was like nothing I had ever tasted before, and I knew I had stumbled upon a new family favorite.

Over the years, I have made these baked hamburgers countless times, tweaking the recipe here and there to suit my taste. Sometimes I add a dash of garlic powder for extra flavor, or a dollop of ketchup on top for a tangy kick. No matter how I choose to customize them, they always turn out delicious.

I shared the recipe with my friends and family, and it quickly became a staple at gatherings and cookouts. Everyone raved about how moist and flavorful the burgers were, and I beamed with pride, knowing that I had discovered a gem of a recipe.

As I look back on that fateful day when I found the recipe for baked hamburgers, I am filled with gratitude. It may have been a simple piece of paper tucked away in my recipe box, but it has brought so much joy and satisfaction to my life.

I am reminded of the power of culinary creativity, of how a humble hamburger patty can be transformed into a gourmet delight with just a few simple ingredients and a little bit of imagination. I am grateful for the memories made around the dinner table, for the laughter and conversation that have been shared over plates of juicy, flavorful burgers.

And as I sit here, writing this story, I can't help but smile. The recipe for baked hamburgers may have been a happy accident, but it has become a treasured tradition in my family. I hope that others will be inspired to try it for themselves, to experience the magic of a simple dish that brings people together and fills hearts with warmth and love.