Tapenade-Filled Burgers

Juicy beef burgers with a savory olive tapenade filling, served on toasted buns with fresh toppings. These gourmet burgers feature a flavorful surprise center that elevates them above ordinary hamburgers.

6 servings
33 min

Ingredients

  • pound lean ground beef chuck
  • 9 tablespoons black or green olive tapenade
  • ¾ teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 6 pieces hamburger buns or kaiser rolls
  • 1 serving burger accompaniments

Cooking Instructions

  1. 1.

    Divide beef into 6 portions. Divide 1 portion in half, then flatten 1 half into a 4-inch patty and form a 1/4-inch rim around patty. Spread 1 1/2 tablespoons of tapenade onto patty within rim. Flatten remaining half into a 4-inch patty, then lay on top of tapenade-covered half and pinch edges together to seal. Pat side to form a straight-sided edge and transfer to a large tray. Make 5 more tapenade patties in same manner and transfer to tray, then refrigerate patties, covered, until ready to grill.

    15 min

  2. 2.

    Prepare grill for cooking over direct heat with medium-hot charcoal (moderately high heat for gas); see "Grilling Procedure".

    10 min

  3. 3.

    Sprinkle patties on both sides with salt and pepper. Lightly oil grill rack, then grill patties (covered only if using a gas grill), turning over once, 3 minutes total for medium-rare. (Burgers will continue to cook slightly after being removed from grill.)

    3 min

  4. 4.

    Spread mayonnaise and mustard on buns, then assemble burgers with onion, pickles, and romaine.

    5 min