Built-In Relish Burgers
Built-In Relish Burgers combine savory ground beef with a tangy relish sauce, offering a flavorful and satisfying meal perfect for casual gatherings or family dinners. The sweet, tangy, and savory notes make these burgers a crowd-pleaser, pairing well with toasted buns and fresh sides.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the ground beef and chopped onion in salad oil until the meat is crumbly.
- Pour off excess oil from the skillet.
- Stir in mustard, vinegar, sugar, catsup, chili sauce, relish, and salt.
- Simmer the mixture for 30 minutes to blend flavors.
- Serve the relish sauce on buttered toasted buns with the cooked meat.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using a mix of ground beef and pork. You can substitute apple cider vinegar for the regular vinegar for a slight sweetness. If you prefer a spicier kick, add a dash of hot sauce to the relish mixture. Be sure to brown the meat properly; this adds depth to the dish. If you want to lighten it up, try using lean ground turkey.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the relish burgers on toasted buns for a delightful crunch. Pair with classic sides like French fries or a fresh garden salad for a complete meal. For a fun twist, try serving them alongside a side of Terry'S Kale Soup for a balance of flavors or a serving of 5 Layer Salad for a refreshing contrast.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover relish sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. If the sauce thickens too much, add a splash of water or broth to reach your desired consistency. The burgers can also be reheated in the microwave, but be careful not to overcook them.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Built-In Relish Burgers contains roughly 147 calories, with 3g protein, 20g carbohydrates, and 5g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (10% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make the relish sauce ahead of time?
Absolutely! The relish sauce can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Just reheat it before serving. It’s a great time-saver for busy weeknights.
What can I use instead of chili sauce?
If you don't have chili sauce, you can use barbecue sauce as a substitute. It offers a different flavor profile but will still add a nice sweetness and tang. Alternatively, a mix of ketchup and a pinch of cayenne pepper can mimic the heat and flavor of chili sauce.
Are there vegetarian options for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute ground beef with plant-based ground meat or lentils for a vegetarian version. Just make sure to adjust cooking times, as plant-based meat often cooks faster. Using a vegan mayonnaise in place of catsup is another way to maintain the texture while keeping it vegetarian.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).