Hamburgers with Grilled Apple and Chili Crisp Recipe

Cook Time: 15 minutes

Ingredients

This recipe was developed at its original yield. Ingredient amounts are automatically adjusted, but cooking times and steps remain unchanged. Note that not all recipes scale perfectly. Original recipe (1X) yields 4 servings.

• 2 red apples, cored
• 1 pound ground beef
• 1/4 cup fine dry bread crumbs
• 5 teaspoons chili crisp, divided, plus more for serving
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 2 (1/3-inch) slices red onion
• 4 hamburger buns
• 1/4 cup mayonnaise

Directions

1. Slice 1 apple using a mandoline slicer to create 8 (-inch-thick) slices. Shred any remaining apple scraps, along with all or part of the second apple, to obtain 1/2 cup shredded apple. Squeeze the shredded apple to remove excess moisture. Reserve any remaining apple for another use.
2. Preheat an outdoor grill to medium heat, approximately 350 to 375 degrees F (175 to 190 degrees C).
3. In a bowl, combine the ground beef, bread crumbs, 3 teaspoons of chili crisp, salt, and the 1/2 cup of shredded apple. Shape the mixture into 4 patties, each -inch thick and 4 inches in diameter. The mixture may be wet, so ensure the patties are tightly packed.
4. Oil the grill grate and place the patties on the grill. Cook, covered, turning halfway through, until an instant-read thermometer inserted into the center of a patty reads 160 degrees F (71 degrees C), which should take about 10 to 13 minutes.
5. While the patties are grilling, place the onion slices on the grill and cook, turning halfway through, for 8 to 10 minutes.
6. Grill the apple slices, turning halfway through, for 4 to 5 minutes. If desired, toast the hamburger buns by grilling them with the cut sides down for 1 to 2 minutes.
7. Once the onions are cool enough to handle, separate them into rings.
8. In a small bowl, stir together the mayonnaise and the remaining 2 teaspoons of chili crisp.
9. Spread the mayonnaise mixture onto the buns and fill them with the grilled patties, onion rings, and apple slices.
10. Serve the burgers with additional chili crisp on top, if desired.

Cook's Note

I prefer to use crisp-sweet red apples such as Fuji, Gala, or Pink Lady. For juicy burgers, use 80% lean / 20% fat ground beef.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

• 684 Calories
• 35g Fat
• 51g Carbs
• 39g Protein

Nutrition Breakdown

Servings Per Recipe	4
Calories	684
Total Fat	35g (46% DV)
Saturated Fat	10g (50% DV)
Cholesterol	108mg (36% DV)
Sodium	856mg (37% DV)
Total Carbohydrate	51g (19% DV)
Dietary Fiber	4g (15% DV)
Total Sugars	14g
Protein	39g (77% DV)
Vitamin C	7mg (8% DV)
Calcium	156mg (12% DV)
Iron	6mg (32% DV)
Potassium	727mg (15% DV)

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

History of Origin

The idea of pairing beef with fruit has deep roots in early American cooking, where sweet-and-savory combinations were common in colonial kitchens. However, the modern concept of hamburgers with grilled apple and chili crisp is a contemporary twist inspired by the global fusion movement of the 21st century. As Asian condiments became increasingly accessible in the West, chili crisp found its way into everyday recipes, giving classic American dishes a bold new dimension. This burger reflects a culinary trend that celebrates contrast: smoky beef, caramelized apple, and fiery-crunchy seasoning.

Regional Characteristics

While the hamburger is iconic across the United States, this variation is most popular in regions known for their apple harvests, such as the Pacific Northwest and New England. Grilling fruit, especially apples, is a technique embraced by cooks in these areas who take advantage of seasonal produce. In the Southwest, chili crisp is often added for extra heat, blending local spice traditions with international flavors. The result is a burger that adapts to regional palates while maintaining its signature sweetspicy profile.

How It Differs from Similar Dishes

Unlike traditional cheeseburgers or barbecue-style burgers, this recipe stands out for its minimal reliance on heavy sauces or melted cheese. Instead, the sweetness of grilled apple and the crunch of chili crisp create a nuanced flavor balance. Many fruit-topped burgers use pineapple or mango, but apple adds a firmer texture and a delicately tart note. Compared to spicy burgers that rely on jalapeos or hot sauces, chili crisp provides not only heat but also complex umami from fried garlic and chili flakes.

Where It Is Commonly Served

Youll often find this type of burger in modern gastropubs, farm-to-table restaurants, and food trucks that specialize in creative reinterpretations of American classics. It is also a favorite at backyard cookouts where home cooks experiment with seasonal fruits on the grill. Its vibrant appearance and layered textures make it a popular choice for summer gatherings and outdoor grilling events.

Interesting Facts

Chili crisp, a key ingredient in this recipe, originated in China and quickly became a global sensation due to its balance of heat, crunch, and aromatics. Grilled apples caramelize naturally, enhancing their sweetness without added sugar, making them a healthier alternative to syrupy toppings. Many chefs note that apples help keep the meat moist when incorporated into the patties, thanks to their natural juices. This burger has gained popularity on social media for its colorful presentation and unexpected yet harmonious flavor combination.

FAQ about Hamburgers with Grilled Apple and Chili Crisp Recipe

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