Slinger Smashburgers

A regional St. Louis classic reimagined into a delicious burger. Inspired by the original slinger which consists of ground beef, hashbrowns, chili, cheese and onion. Recipe from Iowa Beef Industry Council.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound ground beef (80% lean or leaner)
• 6 potato sandwich buns, toasted
• 3 medium Yukon Gold potatoes (about 3/4 cup), shredded, drained well
• 1/2 cup thinly sliced onion
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 cup shredded Italian cheese blend
• 2 cups Beef Coney Sauce, warmed (See recipe below)
• 6 eggs, fried

Cooking:

1. Heat griddle flat top or large cast-iron skillet over medium heat until hot. Combine Ground Beef, potato and onion in small bowl. Divide evenly into 6 portions. Lightly shape into loose balls. Season with salt and pepper, as desired.
2. Evenly place half of balls on griddle; cook 1 to 2 minutes or until bottoms are browned and crispy.
3. Turn balls, smashing into thin patties with a spatula or burger press. Cook 1 to 2 minutes or until instant-read thermometer inserted horizontally into center registers 160°F. Remove from griddle; keep warm. Repeat with remaining beef.
4. Top each patty with 2 tablespoons cheese.
5. Evenly place patty on each bun; top with 1/3 cup coney sauce, fried egg and top halves of buns.

Beef Coney Sauce:

• 1 pound ground beef (80% lean or leaner)
• 1/2 cup chopped onion
• 1 tablespoon finely chopped garlic
• 3 tablespoons chili seasoning rub
• 2 cups beef stock or broth
• 1 can (15 ounces) tomato sauce
• 1 can (9 ounces) diced tomatoes with green chilies
• 3 tablespoons masa harina (corn flour)
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce

Cooking:

1. Heat large skillet over medium heat until hot. Add ground beef; cook 8 to 10 minutes, breaking into 3/4-inch crumbles and stirring occasionally. Pour off drippings, as necessary.
2. Stir in onion, garlic and seasoning rub. Cook 3 to 5 minutes or until onion is tender. Add beef stock, tomato sauce, tomatoes, masa harina and Worcestershire sauce. Reduce heat; cook 15 to 20 minutes or until sauce thickens, stirring occasionally.
3. Serve sauce on its own or as a topping for your favorite burger, baked potato or pasta.