Rhine Burgers
Rhine Burgers offer a hearty combination of seasoned beef, tangy sauerkraut, and crispy bacon, nestled between slices of buttered pumpernickel—perfect for flavorful, satisfying gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix ground beef lightly with salt, caraway seed, and pepper; shape into 8 patties about 1/2-inch thick.
- Place 2 tablespoonfuls of sauerkraut on each of 4 patties; top with the remaining patties.
- Wrap 2 slices of bacon around each assembled patty; fasten with moistened wooden picks.
- Broil 4 inches from heat for 6 minutes on each side or until the bacon is crisp.
- Serve each burger between 2 slices of buttered pumpernickel bread.
Tips & Substitutions
For a juicier burger, consider adding a tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce to the beef mixture. If you don't have pumpernickel bread, any hearty bread will work, or you can use lettuce wraps for a low-carb option. To enhance the flavor, try adding some mustard or horseradish to the sauerkraut. If you enjoy unique flavors, explore similar recipes like Goodwiches.
Serving Suggestions
These burgers are delicious served with crispy potato wedges or a fresh coleslaw. Consider pairing with a tangy mustard dipping sauce to complement the flavors. For a complete meal, serve with a side of Block Party Bean Bake for a hearty combination. A chilled beer or a crisp salad also pairs beautifully with this dish.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Rhine Burgers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a skillet over medium heat for about 5 minutes on each side, or until warmed through. Alternatively, you can microwave them for 1-2 minutes, but this may make the bacon less crispy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Rhine Burgers contains roughly 903 calories, with 10g protein, 62g carbohydrates, and 68g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2132mg per serving (93% 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 use ground turkey instead of beef for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute ground turkey for the beef, but keep in mind that turkey is leaner and may require added moisture. Consider mixing in a bit of olive oil or a small amount of grated cheese to keep the patties juicy. Adjust the cooking time accordingly, as turkey patties may cook faster.
What can I use instead of bacon?
If you prefer a healthier option, you can use turkey bacon or omit the bacon entirely and opt for a slice of cheese instead. For a vegetarian alternative, consider using smoked tempeh or a plant-based bacon substitute to achieve a similar flavor profile without the meat.
How do I know when the burgers are done cooking?
To ensure the burgers are cooked to the right doneness, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. For ground beef, it should reach at least 160°F. If you prefer a different level of doneness, adjust the cooking time accordingly, but keep in mind that bacon should be crisp regardless.
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).