The Argentinian Criollo Burger serves as a delightful culinary nod to the rich and vibrant traditions of Argentina’s culinary heritage, particularly its culture of asado (barbecue). Rooted in centuries-old practices of grilling meats and sharing meals with family and friends, this burger combines bold flavors, essential seasonings, and Argentina’s signature chimichurri sauce to deliver an authentic taste of South America.
The name “Criollo” itself reflects the local heritage, evoking the rustic, homegrown essence of Latin American cuisine. “Criollo” often refers to something native or uniquely traditional to a region, and in Argentina, it represents a celebration of local flavors, ingredients, and techniques passed down through generations. The Criollo Burger honors this culinary legacy while giving it a modern twist for the casual burger lover.
The key to this burger lies in its flavor-packed Criollo seasoning blend. Essential spices such as smoked paprika, cumin, and fresh cracked black pepper reflect the earthy and smoky essence of Argentine cooking, while garlic and onion powder bring familiar depth and warmth to every bite. These spices elevate the burger patty, making even a simple ground beef base a standout ingredient. Grass-fed beef is preferred because it mirrors the high-quality meats Argentina is famous for, offering fuller, more robust flavors.
Topped with provolone cheese—preferably smoked to mimic the flavors of asado-grilled meats—the Criollo Burger incorporates a creamy, slightly tangy layer that perfectly balances the spiced beef. Provolone, widely enjoyed in Argentina, highlights the country’s Italian culinary influences, which have seamlessly blended with local traditions over time.
No Argentinian meal is complete without the bold presence of chimichurri—a bright, herbaceous sauce made with parsley, garlic, red wine vinegar, and olive oil. Chimichurri is as much a condiment as it is a cultural staple, often served with grilled meats during an asado. On this burger, it acts not only as a sauce but also as a central player in amplifying the burger’s authenticity and taste. Its zesty freshness cuts through the richness of the beef and cheese, creating a delightful balance.
Serving the burger on crispy ciabatta rolls is a textural and flavorful choice. The rolls’ sturdy, airy crumb holds up against the juicy patty and saucy chimichurri, while the toasty crunch adds dimension to the overall experience. For those who want to take creativity further, layering fresh toppings like lettuce, tomato, or onions can bring additional freshness and crunch.
The Argentinian Criollo Burger is not just a meal—it’s an invitation to experience the heart of Argentina’s food culture. Whether enjoyed at home or served during a summer barbecue, it encapsulates the convivial spirit of an asado, where food is more than sustenance—it’s a celebration of life, community, and heritage. Bold, rustic, and bursting with flavor, this burger serves as the perfect entry point into the world of Argentine cuisine, offering every diner a small but soulful taste of this extraordinary culinary landscape.
Argentinian Criollo Burger
Ingredients
Burger Ingredients
- 500 grams ground beef Preferably grass-fed for richer taste
- 2 slices Provolone cheese Smoked, if available
- 4 pieces crispy ciabatta rolls Toasted
- 1 cup chimichurri sauce Freshly made or store-bought
Criollo Seasoning
- 1 teaspoon paprika Smoked for extra depth
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 0.5 teaspoon cumin Freshly ground
- 0.5 teaspoon salt To taste
- 0.5 teaspoon ground black pepper Freshly cracked
Instructions
- Combine the ground beef with the Criollo seasoning ingredients: paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly to ensure even seasoning.
- Form the mixture into four equal patties, about 1 cm thick, to ensure they cook evenly.
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 200°C or 400°F) and lightly oil the grates.
- Place the patties on the grill and cook each side for about 5-7 minutes or until they reach your desired doneness, aiming for an internal temperature of 70°C (160°F).
- During the last minute of cooking, place a slice of Provolone cheese on each patty and cover to melt.
- Toast the ciabatta rolls on the grill for about 1-2 minutes until crisp and golden.
- Assemble your burgers by spreading a generous amount of chimichurri sauce on both sides of each toasted roll, adding the cheese-topped patty, and layering with your favorite fresh toppings such as lettuce, tomato, or onion, if desired.