The Spicy Chorizo and Manchego Burger is a culinary tribute to the bold and vibrant flavors of Spain, blending rich, smoky chorizo with creamy aged Manchego cheese. This gourmet burger takes inspiration from classic Spanish cuisine, incorporating traditional ingredients in a way that transforms an everyday favorite into an elevated dish. Whether you’re firing up the grill for an outdoor cookout or whipping up a special meal for family and friends, this burger is sure to delight your taste buds with its harmony of textures and flavors.
The Inspiration Behind the Recipe
Spain is known for its incredibly diverse and flavorsome cuisine, with ingredients that range from tangy cheeses to robust, spiced meats. The inspiration for this burger comes from two key elements of Spanish gastronomy: chorizo and Manchego cheese.
Chorizo – The Star of the Patty
Chorizo is one of Spain’s most celebrated culinary exports. Whether fresh (chorizo fresco) or cured (chorizo curado), this sausage is a staple in Spanish households. It is flavored with smoked paprika (pimentón) and garlic, giving it an unmistakable depth of flavor. When mixed with ground beef in this burger, the chorizo not only infuses the meat with its signature warmth but also enhances the juiciness of the patty. The fat content in chorizo ensures that each bite is moist and packed with flavor, making it a fantastic addition to traditional beef patties.
Manchego Cheese – A Creamy Contrast
The cheese used in this recipe, Manchego, hails from the La Mancha region of Spain and is made from sheep’s milk. Aged Manchego develops a nutty, buttery profile, which contrasts beautifully with the spice of the chorizo. When melted over the burger patty, its creamy texture binds the flavors together, creating a decadent experience in every bite. Manchego has a distinct yet not overpowering taste, which makes it the perfect pairing for the robust flavors of the spiced meat.
A Marriage of Spanish and Classic Burger Elements
While the heart of this dish lies in its Spanish ingredients, the assembly of the burger follows familiar territory. A toasted brioche bun adds a touch of richness, complementing the spicy and smoky notes of the patty. The soft yet slightly crispened bread acts as the perfect vessel, ensuring each bite remains satisfying and well-balanced.
The Perfect Companions: Toppings That Make a Difference
Caramelized onions: Slowly cooked until golden brown, they introduce a natural sweetness that tames the intensity of the chorizo.
Aioli or Garlic Mayo: A creamy spread enhances the savoriness of the burger while adding a hint of indulgence.
Arugula: This peppery green counterbalances the richness of the cheese and meat, bringing a fresh, slightly bitter contrast.
Tomato Slices (Optional): If you enjoy a touch of freshness, a ripe tomato slice adds both juiciness and a subtle tang to brighten up the flavors.
Cooking the Perfect Chorizo and Manchego Burger
A standout burger is all about balance—ensuring the patty is juicy, the cheese is perfectly melted, and the toppings complement rather than overpower the dish. Here are some key tips and techniques to keep in mind while preparing this recipe:
Mixing the Patty with Care: Overmixing ground beef and chorizo can create a dense, tough texture. Gently combine the ingredients to keep the meat tender.
Shaping Matters: When forming your burger patties, make a slight indentation in the center to prevent the burgers from puffing up as they cook.
Achieving the Perfect Sear: Whether grilling or pan-searing, a medium-high heat (200°C / 400°F) ensures caramelization on the outside while keeping the interior juicy.
Melting the Cheese Right: Adding the Manchego in the final minute of cooking and covering the pan allows the cheese to melt evenly over the patty.
Toasting the Buns: A quick toast enhances texture and prevents the brioche from absorbing too much moisture, keeping the overall burger intact.
Pairing Suggestions
What makes this burger even more special is how well it pairs with Spanish sides and drinks. Here are some great accompaniments:
Patatas Bravas: Spanish-style crispy potatoes with a spicy tomato sauce.
Grilled Padrón Peppers: Their mild heat and smoky flavor make an excellent side.
Crisp Spanish Cava or a Full-Bodied Rioja: A sparkling Spanish Cava can cleanse the palate between bites, while a Tempranillo-based Rioja complements the smoky and rich elements of the burger.
The Spicy Chorizo and Manchego Burger is a bold take on a classic comfort food, infused with the essence of Spain. Each ingredient is thoughtfully selected to create a harmonious contrast of textures and flavors—from the smoky spiciness of the chorizo to the smooth, creamy bite of Manchego cheese. The components of this burger pay homage to traditional Spanish ingredients while remaining accessible and easy to prepare at home.
Whether you’re looking for a gourmet burger experience or simply love Spanish flavors, this recipe is an exciting way to transport your taste buds to Spain—one delicious bite at a time.
Spicy Chorizo and Manchego Burger
Ingredients
Burger Patties
- 9 oz ground beef (80/20 blend) For juicier patties
- 9 oz fresh chorizo sausage, casing removed Spicy Spanish-style chorizo recommended
- 1 tsp smoked paprika Adds depth of smoky flavor
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 0.5 tsp salt Adjust to taste
- 0.5 tsp black pepper
Toppings and Assembly
- 4 slices manchego cheese Aged for a deeper flavor
- 4 pieces brioche burger buns Toasted for extra texture
- 0.5 cup caramelized onions Cooked until golden brown
- 4 tbsp aioli or garlic mayo For added richness
- 1 cup arugula Adds a peppery bite
- 1 small tomato, sliced Optional, for freshness
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, combine the ground beef and fresh chorizo, breaking the sausage up into small pieces. Add smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper, then gently mix until well incorporated.
- Divide the mixture into four equal portions and shape into burger patties, pressing slightly in the center to prevent bulging while cooking.
- Preheat a grill or skillet over medium-high heat (200°C / 400°F). Lightly oil the grill or pan, then cook the patties for about 4-5 minutes per side until browned and cooked through (internal temperature should be 70°C / 160°F).
- During the final minute of cooking, place a slice of manchego cheese on each patty and cover with a lid to allow it to melt.
- Toast the brioche buns lightly on the grill or in a skillet until golden brown.
- Spread aioli on the bottom half of each bun, then layer with caramelized onions, an arugula leaf, and a tomato slice.
- Place the cheese-covered patty on top, close with the bun, and serve immediately.
Notes
- For a lighter version, substitute the brioche bun with a lettuce wrap or whole-grain bun.
- You can also swap out Manchego for a milder cheese like Gouda if needed.