5.0 from 5 votes

A Nashville burger with horseradish combines the beloved burger, the spicy sharpness of horseradish and the luscious heat present with Nashville hot sauce and rubs. The result is a a burger that is anything but ordinary.

Our luscious Nashville burger with horseradish is not for the faint of heart. We combined the signature spice of the Nashville burger with the zesty and sharp taste of horseradish to create a new and exciting twist to the classic summer BBQ burger. The spice of each is notable yet different and yields a burger that just may blow you away!

What is a Nashville burger?

We all know that Nashville is famous for its music scene, barbeque and classic spicy fried chicken. While not as notable, Nashville also has a thriving burger scene. The Nashville burger can come with a variety of fixings, but maintains the classic Nashville spicy and savory tradition developed within the city’s foodie culture.

Residents and visitors to Nashville look for and expect new and exciting ways to enjoy their food. Nashville burgers incorporate the city’s cayenne based signature spice to create a burger that will satisfy those searching for something different. These signature burgers are not for those who don’t enjoy some heat with their food . They are bold, spicy, savory, and absolutely delicious.

The burger can be made from ground chicken, turkey or beef. If you avoid turkey burgers because they are bland, we suggest you try one of these. For toppings, they can include Nashville hot sauce, pickles, onions and mushrooms, mayonaise and bacon. As with any burger, topping preference is left to the person consuming the burger.

Nashville Burger with Horseradish
Nashville burger with horseradish onion, mushroom and jalapeños.

Where did Nashville burgers originate?

They were obviously created in Nashville, however, the actual originator is not clear. The Nashville burger appears to have originated in the 1950s. At the time, Nashville was home to a number of small, independent burger joints. Which burger place created the original is debatable.

Are Nashville burgers spicy?

Spice blendto create Nashville burgers
Spice blend to create Nashville burgers

Yes, The level of spiciness can be varied, but a Nashville burger should include some heat. Most are made or topped with a signature Nashville cayenne-pepper based sauce or spice mixture. We have had great success using the brands recommended below (Olde Thompson and McCormick) or pepper palace. To reduce the heat you can reduce the Nashville seasoning in our recipe.

Are Nashville burgers healthy?

Nashville burgers when made with ground beef, which is a high-fat food, and topped with bacon and mayonaise would be quite unhealthy. However, there are ways to make Nashville burgers somewhat healthier. Our recipe uses ground turkey or chicken which substantially reduces the fat content of the burger. You can also choose to have your burger without the cheese, mayonaise or bacon.

What does horseradish taste like?

Horseradish possesses a complex flavor that is often described as hot, spicy, pungent and a slight peppery sensation. There is also a sweetness and earthiness to horseradish that can be quite refreshing. The heat comes from the sinigrin compound, which is also found in mustard and wasabi. The refreshing flavor comes from the water content of horseradish.

Is horseradish naturally spicy?

Horseradish is a root vegetable possessing a strong, spicy flavor that can be described as both hot and pungent. The heat in horseradish comes from a chemical compound called allyl isothiocyanate, which is also found in mustard and wasabi.

When grated or chopped, the allyl isothiocyanate is released and reacts with water in the air to form a volatile compound that produces the characteristic burning sensation. This is why horseradish can sometimes make your eyes water or your nose run.

Despite its fiery reputation, horseradish is actually extremely versatile. It is used in many salads, sauces, and marinades. Horseradish is also a popular ingredient in burgers, where it adds a unique layer of flavor.

Is horseradish good on burgers?

Horseradish can add a sharp, spicy, refreshing and unique flavor that complements and contrasts the flavors inherent in the burger. Horseradish can also tenderize the meat, resulting in a more juicy and flavorful burger. It can also be used to make a delicious horseradish burger sauce, which is the perfect way to top off your next burger.

Is a horseradish burger healthy?

A burger made with a fatty beef mixture and topped with bacon and mayonaise is not healthy. There are ways to make this classic American food a bit healthier. Adding horseradish to the meat mix and using a lower fat protein such as ground chicken or turkey is a solid approach. Horseradish has been used medicinally for centuries. The root vegetable possesses anti-inflammatory benefits and is loaded with antioxidants. Combining the horseradish with a low fat protein and Nashville seasonings yields a healthier burger that is also delicious.

What is horseradish burger sauce?

Horseradish burger sauce is a mayonnaise based sauce with horseradish. It is another way to add some heat and flavor to your burgers. Our recipe places the horseradish directly into the meat mixture making the sauce unnecessary. However, if you find the horseradish flavor of the burger a bit light, the sauce can further intensify it.

To make horseradish sauce, combine mayonnaise, horseradish, Dijon mustard, salt and black pepper to taste. You can also add other ingredients to your sauce such as chopped pickles, relish or chopped onions.

How do you make a Nashville Burger with Horseradish?

This is a simple variation to preparing the classic burger. We start with ground turkey or chicken. This is a perfect recipe for those who avoid healthier burger options due to the bland flavor inherent with ground turkey and chicken. We guarantee there is nothing bland about this recipe. Beef also works for this recipe for those who prefer the traditional protein in a burger.

To the meat, add chopped onions and garlic, Montreal seasoning, Worcestershire sauce, horseradish (grated fresh or jarred) and Nashville seasoning. We have had success with the seasoning brands recommended above. Combine well. Form into patties if making traditional burgers or into meatballs if you plan to make it smash burger style. If making a smash burger, once placed on the griddle, use a press to smash the burger. See below to purchase a griddle and press. One purchase option includes both the griddle, press and cleaner made from cast iron. These are preseasoned which assists with cleaning. The other option is a stick free griddle surface and a separate press.

Proceed to cook on grill. When flipped add your toppings such as onions, mushrooms or bacon. Top with sharp cheddar and allow cheese to melt. Place on bun and top with ketchup and your choice of toppings. Options include mayonaise, horseradish sauce, pickles, Nashville hot sauce or any other topping desired. Enjoy!

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Nashville Burger with Horseradish

Recipe by Joe and Susie
5.0 from 5 votes
Course: DinnerCuisine: AmericanDifficulty: Easy
Servings

4

servings
Prep time

10

minutes
Cooking time

10

minutes

A sharp, spicy and savory alternative to the classic grilled burger.

Ingredients

  • 1.5 lbs ground chicken or turkey. Beef also works

  • 1/2 Medium Onion chopped

  • 1 Clove Garlic chopped

  • 2 Tbs Worcestershire sauce

  • 2 Tbs Pepper Palace Nashville hot and spicy chicken rub or equivalent

  • 4 Tbs jarred Horseradish. If using freshly grated, use 2 Tbs.

  • 1 Tbs Montreal seasoning.

  • 8 Burger rolls

  • 8 Slices Sharp cheddar, sliced thick

Directions

  • Combine the first seven ingredients. Form into patties if making traditional burgers or meatballs if making smash burgers.
  • Heat grill on medium-high or high heat. Place meat on grill or griddle depending on the type of burger you are making. If making smash burgers, cover with parchment paper and smash the burger. Because they are thinner, they will cook quickly. When ready, flip and add any toppings and cheddar. For traditional burger cook 3-5 minutes on each side. Top with your choice of toppings and cheese. Allow to melt and remove from grill.
  • Place in bun. Add ketchup, Nashville hot sauce and any other toppings. Enjoy!

Recipe Video

Notes

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