Beefy Bean and Frito Burgers

Have you ever driven to a store or restaurant only to find a “gone out of business” sign on the door?  It always gives me a bad feeling wondering who lost their shirt and how many employees had to find new jobs, not to mention my own disappointment.

A few years ago, we drove to Dallas (about 45 minutes) to eat at one of our favorite restaurants, a 50′s style diner called EZ’s.  As we drove up–we observed the building was GONE, replaced with a convenience store.  We couldn’t believe our eyes so we drove around the block looking for it as if somebody had rearranged the neighborhood without telling us.

If we had eaten there, we would have ordered Bean and Frito burgers. I’ve been trying to recreate them at home ever since.

The interesting blend of textures and flavors makes these unique and memorable.  The crunchy corn chips contrasts with the creamy beans. The toasty but soft bun makes a perfect backdrop for the cheese-infused and chewy hamburger patty.  It’s a treat well worth a few extra jumping jacks!

Add avocado slices or some guacamole if you like. Some people add onions too but not me. A tomato slice would be good but honestly, this sandwich is pretty thick already so it can get messy if you go overboard on the extras.

A note about the cheese: you can go several ways. I like to add shredded cheese to the hamburger meat before making into patties. You could also try slices of cheese melted on top or a small amount of processed American cheese poured over the cooked burgers. The latter would probably be your favorite if you favor gooey nachos like those sold at the ballpark.

Beefy Bean and Frito Burgers

Ingredients:
1 pound ground chuck
Salt and Pepper
3/4 cup shredded Cheddar or Pepper Jack
Refried Beans (I use fat-free or this recipe)
Fritos
Avocado slices or guacamole (optional)
Hamburger Buns

Directions:
First: Season ground chuck with salt and pepper. Lightly mix in cheese.

Second: Form meat into 4 balls. Flatten into patties and make depression in the middle with fingers. Lay on hot grill with depression up. Cook for 3-4 minutes. Do not flatten with spatula. Turn patties and cook until done. Grill or toast hamburger buns.

Third: Place meat patty on top of bottom bun. Spread a generous tablespoon of warmed refried beans on top of burger. Sprinkle a handful of crumbled chips on top of beans. If using avocados or guacamole, place on top of beans and Fritos. Replace top bun and lightly press down to squish toppings together for easier eating.