These mini zucchini burgers offer a delightful and healthy twist to traditional burgers, featuring fresh zucchini slices as the “buns” and a flavorful, lean ground beef patty seasoned to perfection. They’re a fun, low-carb alternative that doesn’t skimp on taste. Here’s how to prepare these delicious bites.
Ingredients:
- 1 extra-large zucchini or 2 medium/large, cut into 16 1/2-inch slices: These zucchini slices will act as your burger buns, offering a fresh, crunchy contrast to the savory beef patty.
- Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste: For seasoning the zucchini and the beef patties.
- 1 lbs. lean ground beef: The base of your mini burgers, offering a rich, meaty flavor. Lean beef keeps them healthier.
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder: Adds a subtle, aromatic flavor to the patties.
- 1/2 tsp onion powder: Complements the garlic powder, enhancing the overall savoriness.
- 1 tsp smoked paprika: Gives the patties a smoky, slightly sweet flavor.
- 1 tsp dried oregano: Adds a hint of earthy, minty flavor, rounding out the seasonings.
- 4 slices of cheddar cheese, cut into quarters to get 4 small squares: Adds creamy, melty goodness to each mini burger.
- Avocado oil cooking spray: For greasing the pan, ensuring your patties don’t stick and the zucchini slices grill perfectly.
Instructions:
- Prep the Zucchini:
- Season the zucchini slices with sea salt and freshly ground black pepper. Let them sit for a few minutes to draw out some moisture. Pat them dry with paper towels.
- Season the Ground Beef:
- In a large bowl, mix the ground beef with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, dried oregano, sea salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Form the mixture into 16 small, thin patties, slightly larger than the zucchini slices.
- Cook the Zucchini:
- Heat a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat and spray with avocado oil cooking spray. Grill the zucchini slices in batches, about 1-2 minutes per side, until they are tender and have grill marks. Set aside.
- Grill the Patties:
- In the same pan, add the mini beef patties. Cook for about 2-3 minutes per side or until they are cooked to your preferred doneness. In the last minute of cooking, place a quarter slice of cheddar cheese on each patty to melt.
- Assemble the Mini Burgers:
- To assemble, place a mini beef patty with melted cheese on a zucchini slice, then top with another zucchini slice. Secure with a toothpick if necessary.
- Serve:
- Serve immediately, with your favorite burger condiments and sides. Enjoy these mini zucchini burgers as a healthy, fun appetizer or a light meal.
Tips:
- Customization: Feel free to add toppings like a small lettuce leaf, a tomato slice, or a dollop of mustard or ketchup between the zucchini slices for extra flavor.
- Serving Suggestion: These mini burgers go great with a side of mixed greens or a fresh cucumber salad for a complete, balanced meal.
These mini zucchini burgers are not only a healthier alternative to traditional burgers but also a creative way to incorporate more vegetables into your meals. They’re sure to be a hit with both adults and kids alike!