This pork burger is juicy and flavorful, topped with a zingy spicy mayo slaw that adds a great crunch. It’s a fun twist on your usual burger night!
Making these burgers is a breeze! I love how the slaw brings everything together. It’s a spicy kick that even my kids enjoy—who knew they liked heat? 🌶️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Pork: This is the star of the burger. You can substitute with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. They’ll taste a bit different, but that’s part of the fun of experimenting!
Spices: The garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika are essential for flavor. If you’re low on smoked paprika, regular paprika works too, but it won’t have that smoky taste. I find that adding a pinch of cayenne can also enhance the flavor.
Cheese: Swiss is a classic choice, but you can use cheddar, pepper jack, or even blue cheese for a bolder flavor. If you want it dairy-free, try vegan cheese alternatives that melt well.
Coleslaw Mix: If you can’t find coleslaw mix, you can shred your own cabbage and carrots. Add bell peppers or broccoli slaw for a different crunch. You could also use lettuce for a lower-carb option!
Sriracha: Adjust the amount based on how spicy you want the slaw. For a milder version, try mayo mixed with a bit of ketchup instead, or use hot sauce that suits your taste.
How Do I Make Sure My Pork Patties are Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking pork patties properly is key for both safety and flavor. To ensure your burgers are juicy and not overcooked, follow these steps:
- Use a food thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C).
- Don’t press down on the patties with your spatula while cooking. This makes them dry!
- Let them cook undisturbed for the full 4-5 minutes before flipping.
- Consider covering the skillet with a lid during the last minute of cooking to help the cheese melt evenly.
Enjoy cooking these tasty pork burgers and have fun with your toppings and ingredients!
How to Make Pork Burger with Spicy Mayo Slaw
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pork Burgers:
- 1 lb ground pork
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 slices of cheese (Swiss or your choice)
- 4 burger buns
- Leafy greens (lettuce or spinach)
For the Spicy Mayo Slaw:
- 2 cups coleslaw mix (shredded cabbage and carrots)
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1-2 tbsp Sriracha (adjust for spice preference)
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 avocado, sliced (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious pork burger recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 15 minutes to cook, for a total of around 30 minutes. It’s quick, easy, and perfect for a tasty dinner or lunch!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Pork Patties:
Start by grabbing a large bowl. In it, combine the ground pork, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Use your hands or a spoon to mix everything well until all the ingredients are nicely blended together.
2. Form Patties:
Now, take the pork mixture and divide it into four equal portions. Shape each portion into a patty that’s about ½ inch thick. Make a slight indentation in the center of each patty to help them cook evenly.
3. Cook the Burgers:
Heat your grill or skillet over medium-high heat. When it’s nice and hot, carefully place the pork patties on the grill or skillet. Cook them for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until they are fully cooked and reach an internal temperature of 160°F (70°C). In the last minute of cooking, add a slice of cheese on each patty so it melts beautifully.
4. Make the Spicy Mayo Slaw:
While the burgers are cooking, take another bowl and whisk together the mayonnaise, Sriracha, apple cider vinegar, salt, and pepper. Once it’s mixed, gently fold in the coleslaw mix until all the veggies are well-coated in the spicy mayo dressing.
5. Assemble the Burgers:
If you like a toasted bun, you can toast the burger buns now. On the bottom half of each bun, place a handful of leafy greens. Then, add the cooked pork patty with that mouth-watering melted cheese. Pile on the spicy mayo slaw generously and finish with some sliced avocado for an extra touch!
6. Serve:
Top each burger with the other half of the bun and serve immediately. These burgers are fantastic with sides like chips or fries. Enjoy your delicious pork burgers topped with zesty spicy mayo slaw!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Pork?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great alternative if you want a leaner option. Just keep in mind that turkey can be drier than pork, so consider adding a tablespoon of olive oil or a bit more seasoning to keep it flavorful and moist.
How Can I Adjust the Spice Level of the Slaw?
To customize the heat level, simply adjust the amount of Sriracha in the spicy mayo. Start with 1 tablespoon and taste it before adding more. For a milder version, you can replace Sriracha with regular mayonnaise or Greek yogurt for creaminess without the heat.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Burgers and Slaw?
Store any leftovers in airtight containers in the fridge. The pork patties can last up to 3 days, while the spicy mayo slaw is best consumed within 2 days for freshness. To reheat the burgers, warm them gently in a skillet to avoid drying them out.
Can I Make the Slaw Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can! The spicy mayo slaw can be prepared a day in advance, just keep it in the refrigerator. However, it’s best to add it to the burgers right before serving to maintain its crunchiness.
