Summer might be sizzling to an end, but cookout season is still going strong. As autumn rolls in to Rock Hill, backyard grilling parties and tailgate gatherings are just getting started in earnest. The next time you need to feed a crowd of hungry footballers, mix up some of these delicious Coke Burgers. The Coke makes keeps these burgers super-juicy and the French dressing adds a savory note that sets them apart from the typical patty. Serve the Coke Burgers with cheese and all the fixings. And, of course, plenty of Coca-Cola products.
Notes on Ingredients
The Coke need not be flat. Fizzy or flat…makes no difference.
The crackers should be crushed quite finely. Make sure that there are no large crumbs, as bigger pieces of crackers will leave you with pockets of slightly mushy texture.
There’s no substitute for real grated parmesan cheese. The pre-grated parmesan that comes in a can will do in a pinch, but use an actual wedge of cheese and a fine grater if you can. The freshness will give your burgers a huge flavor boost!
Ingredients
- 3 lbs ground beef
- 2 eggs
- ¾ cups Coke
- ¾ cups crushed saltine crackers
- 8 tbsp French dressing
- 3 tbsp grated parmesan cheese
- ½ tsp salt
Directions
Get the Grill Hot
Set all the burners to high, close the lid, and let the grill heat for 12-15 minutes. Clean and oil the grill.
Mix the Wet
In a medium bowl, lightly whisk the two eggs. Add the Coke and the French dressing. Whisk until combined.
Mixing the wet ingredients beforehand will make them easier to incorporate into the ground beef.
Combine the Dry
In a small bowl toss the cracker crumbs, grated parmesan, and salt.
Combine Everything
In another bowl, mix the ground beef, Coke mixture, and cracker mixture. Squeezing by hand is the best way to insure that all of the ingredients are equally distributed.
Form the Patties
Working with ¼ lb of beef mixture for each Coke burger patty, start by forming a ball. Firmly toss the burger ball back and forth between your hands. This step will tighten the mixture and will keep it from falling apart when you press the patty.
Place the ball into your palm, then firmly slap, flattening and turning the patty as you go. As the patty begins to take shape, turn it over and continue patting until it is evenly round and roughly ½ inch thick.
Rest the Meat
Allow the meat to rest on a tray while the grill heats up.
Poke the Middle
To avoid serving football shaped burgers at your tailgate party, poke a hole in the center of each burger patty.
Grill the Burgers
Place the patties on the heated grill, leaving a little space between each one. Grill for 3-4 minutes per side. Top with cheese for the cheeseburger lovers.