Dietitian Spotlight: Classic Blended Burgers

These burgers are cooked in the skillet or on the grill - perfect for some late fall football watching! The star in this recipe is the mushrooms which are a great addition to meals, and can be a nice alternative to meat products such as ground beef.

Mushrooms are often substituted for some of the ground beef in hamburger patties because they can have a meaty flavor and texture. If you are feeling a bit more adventurous, you could even substitute mushrooms in place of all of the ground beef in a hamburger.

The reason mushrooms are such a great alternative to meat products is because of the many nutrients provided by this vegetable. They are low in calories, fat, cholesterol and sodium. Mushrooms are also a good source of B vitamins including riboflavin, niacin and pantothenic acid. Additionally, minerals such as selenium, copper and potassium are abundant in mushrooms. Blending mushrooms with ground beef can serve as a transition towards incorporating more meatless dishes into your recipe rotation, while still giving you the familiarity of the well-loved hamburger! If you have a gluten allergy or sensitivity, using a gluten free hamburger bun is a great option.

Whether you are looking to decrease the amount of meat you eat or just want to try a new twist on a traditional hamburger, this Blended Burger recipe is easily adaptable! If you have Celiac Disease or have a gluten intolerance, simply replace the bun with a gluten-free bun.

Classic Blended Burger

Ingredients

• 1/2 pound crimini or white button mushrooms
• 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
• 1 pound ground beef
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 4 gluten-free buns

Directions

1. Finely dice mushrooms or gently pulse in food processor.
2. In skillet, warm 1 tablespoon olive oil on medium-high heat and add mushrooms, sautéing 5-7 minutes, or until golden brown. Remove from heat and cool 5 minutes.
3. Transfer cooled mushrooms to medium bowl. Add ground beef and salt, mixing until combined.
4. Make 4 patties. Add remaining tablespoon of olive oil to pan and cook burger patties on medium-high heat until desired doneness. Plate and add desired toppings to bun.
5. Topping recommendations: feta cheese, romesco sauce, sweet peppers and sautéed red onions.

Recipe adapted from the Mushroom Council