Tennessee Whiskey BBQ Smashburger and Sweet Potato Fries

1. Discover a flavorful twist on the classic Southern smashburger and sweet potato fries with this recipe inspired by a famous Tennessee BBQ restaurant. Featuring a unique Tennessee Whiskey BBQ sauce, this unforgettable meal will be the highlight of any cookout.

Time: 1. Prep Time: 20 minutes 2. Cook Time: 35 minutes 3. Total Time: 55 minutes

Servings: 6

Difficulty: Advanced

Cuisine: American, Southern, BBQ

Allergens

Wheat (in buns), Dairy (optional, if using a cheese slice)

Ingredients

1. 2 lbs ground beef (80/20 mix) 2. Salt and pepper, to taste 3. 6 hamburger buns 4. 3 large sweet potatoes 5. 2 tbsp olive oil 6. 1 tsp paprika 7. 1/2 tsp garlic powder 8. 1/2 tsp onion powder 9. 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional) 10. 1 cup Tennessee whiskey 11. 1 cup ketchup 12. 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar 13. 1/4 cup brown sugar 14. 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce 15. 1 tsp smoked paprika 16. 1/2 tsp ground mustard 17. 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional) 18. Fresh cilantro, for garnish 19. Red onion, thinly sliced, for garnish

Instructions

Preheat your outdoor grill to medium high heat.
In a large bowl, gently combine the ground beef with salt and pepper to taste. Shape into 6 equal patties.
Brush the sweet potatoes with olive oil and season with paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper (optional). Wrap in foil and place on the grill for 15 minutes or until tender.
In a medium saucepan, combine Tennessee whiskey, ketchup, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, ground mustard, and cayenne pepper (optional). Bring to a boil over medium heat, then reduce heat to low and let simmer for 20 minutes.
Grill the beef patties on one side until they have nice grill marks, then flip and continue cooking until desired doneness. Place the buns, cut side down, on the grill to toast them lightly.
Assemble the burgers by placing a smashed and seasoned patty onto each bun, followed by a generous spoonful of Tennessee Whiskey BBQ sauce, sliced red onion, and fresh cilantro leaves. Serve alongside sweet potato fries for the ultimate Southern BBQ experience.

Chef’s Insight

1. To achieve that perfect "smash" on your smashburger, gently form a ball from the beef mixture, then place it between two pieces of wax paper and use a heavy object to press down and slightly flatten the patty before cooking.

Notes

1. Feel free to add a slice of cheese on top of the patty during the last minute of cooking for an additional touch of indulgence.

Substitutions

1. For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free hamburger buns or serve the smashburger on lettuce leaves. 2. Replace ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. 3. Substitute brown sugar with maple syrup or honey if desired.

Alternative Preparations

1. For an indoor cooking alternative, use a stovetop griddle or a cast-iron skillet to achieve that classic seared crust on the smashburgers. 2. Use your favorite store-bought BBQ sauce as a substitute for the Tennessee Whiskey BBQ sauce if short on time.

Alternative Methods

1. If grilling isn't an option, use a stovetop or oven to cook the sweet potatoes and beef patties instead.

Best Storage Practice

1. Store any leftover Tennessee Whiskey BBQ sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.

Shelf Life

1. The Tennessee Whiskey BBQ sauce will last for up to 2 weeks stored in the refrigerator.

Plating Tips

1. Arrange the burgers and sweet potato fries on a wooden board or platter, with additional Tennessee Whiskey BBQ sauce on the side for dipping.

Nutrition Facts

1. Per Serving (without cheese): 600 calories, 35g fat, 8g carbohydrates, 3g fiber, 42g protein