Juicy Beef Patties with Roasted Potatoes!

Juicy Beef Patties with Roasted Potatoes

Ingredients:

For the Beef Patties:

• 1 lb (450g) ground beef (80% lean for juicy patties)

• 1 small onion, finely chopped (optional but adds great flavor)

• 1 garlic clove, minced

• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce

• 1 tbsp soy sauce (adds umami depth)

• 1 tsp smoked paprika (or regular paprika)

• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

• 1 large egg

• 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (optional for firmer texture)

• 1-2 tbsp olive oil (for searing)

For the Roasted Potatoes:

• 4 medium potatoes (Yukon Gold or Russet work great)

• 2 tbsp olive oil

• 1 tsp garlic powder

• 1 tsp dried rosemary or thyme (or both!)

• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Roasted Potatoes

1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).

2. Prep the Potatoes: Wash and scrub the potatoes, then cut them into bite-sized chunks (around 1–1.5 inch pieces). Leaving the skins on will give them extra texture and flavor.

3. Season the Potatoes: In a bowl, toss the potato chunks with 2 tbsp olive oil, garlic powder, rosemary or thyme, salt, and pepper. Make sure they’re evenly coated.

4. Roast: Spread the potatoes out in a single layer on a baking sheet. Roast in the preheated oven for 30-40 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy on the outside and tender on the inside.

Step 2: Prepare the Juicy Beef Patties

1. Mix the Beef: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef with minced garlic, chopped onion, Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, paprika, salt, and pepper.

2. Add the Egg and Breadcrumbs: Crack the egg into the mixture and stir in the breadcrumbs (if using). Mix gently, just until everything is incorporated. Avoid over-mixing, as that can make the patties tough.

3. Form Patties: Divide the mixture into 4 equal portions (or more if you want smaller patties) and shape each portion into a round patty. Press a small indentation in the center of each patty with your thumb; this helps them cook more evenly and stay juicy.

4. Sear the Patties: Heat 1-2 tbsp of olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the patties and cook for about 4-5 minutes per side for medium doneness. Flip the patties gently using a spatula. For a more well-done burger, cook for an extra minute or two on each side. The internal temperature should reach 160°F (71°C) for medium.

5. Rest the Patties: Once cooked, remove the patties from the skillet and let them rest for 5 minutes to lock in the juices.

Step 3: Serve

• Serve the juicy beef patties alongside your crispy roasted potatoes. You can drizzle some ketchup, aioli, or your favorite sauce on the patties for extra flavor. Add a simple salad or steamed veggies if you want to round out the meal.

Frequently Asked Questions (Q&A)

Q1: Can I use leaner ground beef for this recipe?

A1: You can, but be aware that leaner beef (like 90% lean or higher) will result in drier patties. The 80% lean ground beef is ideal for a juicy, flavorful burger, but if you prefer leaner beef, you can add a tablespoon of olive oil or a little beef broth to help maintain moisture.

Q2: Can I use a different kind of potato?

A2: Absolutely! While Yukon Gold and Russet potatoes are popular for roasting, you can use baby potatoes, red potatoes, or even sweet potatoes. Just adjust the roasting time depending on the type of potato.

Q3: How do I make the patties without breadcrumbs?

A3: If you don’t want to use breadcrumbs, you can leave them out entirely. The egg alone should help bind the mixture together. If the mixture feels too loose, you can add a spoonful of oat flour, ground crackers, or even a tablespoon of grated cheese for extra binding and flavor.

Q4: Can I make the patties ahead of time?

A4: Yes! You can prepare the patties up to a day in advance. Just form the patties, place them on a plate, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate until ready to cook. This helps them hold together better when cooking.

Q5: How do I get my beef patties extra juicy?

A5: A few tricks to keeping your patties juicy:

• Don’t overwork the beef mixture. Mix the ingredients just until combined.

• Form the patties gently and avoid pressing down too hard.

• Make an indentation in the center of the patty before cooking to help them cook evenly.

• Let the patties rest after cooking to redistribute the juices.

Q6: Can I cook the patties on a grill instead of a skillet?

A6: Absolutely! If you prefer grilling, preheat your grill to medium-high heat and cook the patties for about 4-5 minutes per side, depending on the thickness of the patties and your desired level of doneness. Just be careful not to over-flip them, as they might break apart.

Q7: Can I freeze the beef patties?

A7: Yes, you can freeze uncooked patties for later use. Lay them out on a baking sheet in a single layer to freeze for about an hour. Once frozen, transfer the patties to a ziplock bag or airtight container. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. To cook, simply thaw them in the fridge overnight and cook as usual.

Q8: What are some good side dishes to serve with this meal?

A8: Besides roasted potatoes, you could try:

• A fresh side salad with greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette.

• Grilled or steamed vegetables like asparagus, zucchini, or carrots.

• Coleslaw or pickles to add a bit of crunch and tang.

• Garlic bread or a soft roll to make it more of a hearty meal.