Sarasota's Bloody Mary Burger Recipe

Step by Step Method

Step 1

Sauce ... Add the yogurt, blue cheese, celery, scallions, and vinegar to a small bowl; mix to combine. Cover and refrigerate until ready to use. Best if made at least 1 hour before using. This can easily be made a day in advance as well.

Step 2

Burger ... Note: I really find if the burgers rest a good 30-60 minutes; it allows the flavors to develop. I also like to freeze my burgers before cooking. NOT solid, just firm. It just helps to hold the burgers together; especially when they are a soft texture like these are. It isn't necessary; but, I do suggest it. 15-20 minutes in the freezer is all you need.

Step 3

Add the bread, bloody mary mix, and shallots to a large bowl, and let it set the slice of bread soak a minute or two. Then, using your hands, bread up the bread ... or you can use a fork. Then, add a pinch of salt, pepper, and the beef. Mix until everything is well combined. Be sure, NOT to over mix - over mixing can create a tough burger.

Step 4

Form your patties, and set them on a plate or pan lined with parchment paper or foil for easy clean up. Cover and refrigerate at least 30 minutes up to 1 hour to develop all the flavors. And my trick - then I like to then freeze them a good 15-20 minutes to really firm up. This step isn't necessary; but, I just really like to do this when grilling any burgers. Also, these have a soft texture; and, freezing them just helps them hold together on the grill.

Step 5

Burgers and Buns ... I always prefer to cook these on a open or outdoor grill; but, these could also be done on a grill pan, or a heavy pan (such as a cast iron pan). Season your cooking surface with oil or a non-stick spry; then, season both sides of the burger with plenty of salt and pepper. Grill the burgers until they are done to your likeness. Remember, DO NOT move the burger after you put it on the grill or pan. Wait until the burger will move on it's own. If the burger is sticking to the grill or pan, it isn't ready to be flipped. I like to cook mine on a fairly high heat. They should take between 5-6 minutes per side (on average).

Step 6

As the burgers cook, grill your buns if you want ... for me, it is an absolute must.

Step 7

Finish, Serve, and ENJOY! ... I like to add a small lettuce leave to the bottom bun, this prevents the bun from getting soggy; then, the burger, sauce, lettuce, a bit more sauce, and the top bun. Add some onion rings or fries; and a pickle, for a fantastic meal! Remember, you can always add other condiments if you want. I just prefer to keep this burger simple.