Italian-Sausage Burgers with Garlicky Spinach

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Using sausage in burgers is a smart shortcut, because the meat is already seasoned.Plus: F&W's Grilling Guide More Great Burgers

Italian-Sausage Burgers with Garlicky Spinach
Using sausage in burgers is a great time-saver, since the meat is already seasoned. Photo: © Stephanie Foley
Total Time:
30 mins
Yield:
4

Ingredients

  • 10 ounces baby spinach

  • 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil, plus more for brushing

  • 2 garlic cloves, minced

  • 1 teaspoon anchovy paste (optional)

  • Salt

  • 1 pound sweet or hot Italian sausages (or a combination of both), casings removed

  • 4 slices of provolone cheese

  • 1/4 cup sun-dried-tomato pesto

  • 4 round ciabatta rolls, split and toasted

Directions

  1. In a large skillet, bring 1/4 inch of water to a boil. Add the spinach and cook, stirring, until just wilted, about 1 minute; drain and press out as much water as possible. Wipe out the skillet.

  2. In the same skillet, heat the 2 tablespoons of olive oil until shimmering. Add the garlic and anchovy paste and cook over high heat, stirring, until fragrant, 1 minute. Add the spinach, season with salt and stir just until coated, about 10 seconds.

  3. Light a grill or preheat a grill pan. Using slightly moistened hands, form the sausage meat into four 4-inch patties, about 3/4 inch thick. Brush the burgers with oil and grill over moderate heat until browned and crusty on the bottom, about 5 minutes. Carefully flip the burgers. Top with the cheese and grill until the burgers are cooked through and the cheese is melted, about 5 minutes longer. Spread the pesto on the rolls. Top with the burgers and spinach and serve.

Suggested Pairing

A berry-inflected Zinfandel.

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