Ingredients
Buns and Topping
- 4 ciabatta buns
- 3 Tablespoons salted butter (melted)
- 2 large garlic cloves
- 1 cup marinara sauce (warmed)
- 12 basil leaves
Burgers
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 teaspoon Kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon ground pepper
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- Vegetable oil to coat
- 8 ounces fresh mozzarella cheese
Instructions
- Butter the Buns: In a small bowl, combine the melted butter with minced garlic cloves. Brush this garlic butter mixture generously on both sides of all the ciabatta buns. Set them aside to prepare for broiling.
- Shape the Burgers: Divide the ground beef into four equal portions. Use your hands to shape each portion into a ball, then press it with your palm into a burger patty shape. Press your thumb gently into the center of each patty to prevent it from doming during cooking.
- Season the Patties: Mix together Kosher salt, ground pepper, and garlic powder in a small bowl. Sprinkle this seasoning evenly on both sides of each burger patty.
- Fry the Burgers: Heat a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat and add just enough vegetable oil to coat the bottom. When the oil shimmers, place the patties in the skillet. Fry for about 3 minutes until juices begin pooling on top, then flip and cook an additional 2-3 minutes until the internal temperature reaches your desired doneness. Near the end of cooking, place a slice of fresh mozzarella on each patty and cover with a lid or sheet pan to melt the cheese. Once done, transfer the burgers to a plate and loosely tent with foil to keep warm.
- Broil the Buns: While the burgers cook, place the buttered ciabatta buns buttered side up on a baking sheet. Broil in the oven for 3-4 minutes, monitoring closely as some buns may brown faster. Remove when golden and toasted.
- Assemble the Burgers: Spread warmed marinara sauce on both the toasted top and bottom buns. Place the mozzarella-topped burger patty on the bottom bun, add fresh basil leaves, and cover with the top bun. Serve immediately and enjoy your Italian-inspired burger masterpiece.
Notes
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure burgers reach a safe and preferred internal temperature (160°F for well done).
- Broil buns carefully—stay close as they can burn quickly.
- Fresh mozzarella melts best if covered while melting on the patties.
- Substitute ciabatta buns with Italian rolls if unavailable.
- For a spicier kick, add crushed red pepper flakes to the seasoning mix.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Italian-American
