WHY YOU’LL LOVE CRACKER BARREL MEATLOAF

• That sweet + tangy glaze gets glossy and irresistible
  
• Super moist thanks to milk, eggs, and crackers
  
• Loaded with real cheddar… not skimpy
  
• Classic comfort food that actually fills you up
  
• Makes amazing leftovers (maybe even better the next day)

Cracker Barrel Meatloaf Recipe

People hear “meatloaf” and immediately think it’s fussy. It’s not.

Everything goes in one bowl. Mix it. Shape it. Into the oven it goes.

The crackers are doing the heavy lifting here… that’s where the tenderness comes from. And the cheese? That’s the part people always notice. It melts right into everything.

Now that glaze… don’t rush that step. That’s where the flavor really shows up. Sweet, tangy, a little sticky on top.

And for the most important part: give your Cracker Barrel meatloaf a few minutes before slicing. I know it’ll be hard to wait… but it matters.

INGREDIENT NOTES

• Ground Beef (80/20): This is not the place for lean meat. You want that fat for flavor and moisture.
  
• Ritz Crackers: Buttery, soft, and exactly what’s in the meatloaf at Cracker Barrel. They keep the texture tender without making it dense like breadcrumbs can.
  
• Cheddar Cheese: Freshly shredded melts smoother and keeps the loaf juicy. Pre-shredded can be a little dry.
  
• Whole Milk: Helps soften everything and keeps the loaf from drying out.
  
• Green Bell Pepper: Adds subtle sweetness and texture. You can swap for red or skip if needed.
  
• Worcestershire Sauce: Quietly adds depth… don’t skip it.

VARIATIONS

No Peppers: Leave them out completely if you’re not a fan. The recipe still works!

Half Beef/Half Pork: Creates a richer, softer texture with extra flavor.

Spicy Version: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a little hot sauce to the meat mixture.

BBQ Glaze: Swap ketchup for BBQ sauce for a smokier finish.

Lower Sugar Topping: Cut the brown sugar slightly if you want less sweetness.

No Cheese: Still good, just a little less rich.

Mini Meatloaves: Divide the mixture into smaller portions. Great for faster cooking and easy serving.

SERVING SUGGESTIONS

• Pair Cracker Barrel copycat meatloaf with our Creamy Garlic Mashed Potatoes. A classic combo for a reason!
  
• A side of mixed vegetables balances the richness.
  
• Serve with biscuits or dinner rolls to soak up every bit of sauce.
  
• Add Cracker Barrel Mac and Cheese for that full comfort plate.
  
• Leftovers? Slice and serve meatloaf on toasted bread with extra glaze.

CRACKER BARREL COPYCAT MEATLOAF FAQ

I’ve made a lot of meatloaf over the years… and I mean a lot.

This Cracker Barrel meatloaf recipe reminds me of the kind you’d get at a roadside diner where everything’s just a little better than you expected.

Here’s the thing most people miss… don’t overmix the meat. That’s what makes it tough. You want it just combined. A little messy is fine.

And that rest time at the end? That’s not optional. The juices need a minute to settle back in. Cut too soon, and they end up on the pan instead of in your meatloaf.

That’s the difference between good and “wow, this is really good.”

TOOLS NEEDED

• Large Mixing Bowl: You need room to mix without overworking the meat.
  
• Baking Dish or Sheet Pan: Something with edges to catch the juices.
  
• Aluminum Foil: Makes cleanup easier (and it will be messy).
  
• Small Bowl: For mixing that glaze.
  
• Meat Thermometer: The easiest way to know when this Cracker Barrel meatloaf copycat is done!

Enjoy!

With love, from our simple kitchen to yours.

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Cracker Barrel Meatloaf Recipe (Copycat)

This Cracker Barrel Meatloaf Recipe creates a flavorful loaf loaded with cheese and topped with glaze… just like the restaurant version!

Course Main

Cuisine American

Method Oven

Prep Time 20 minutes minutes

Cook Time 50 minutes minutes

Total Time 1 hour hour 10 minutes minutes

Servings 8

Calories 538cal

Author Donna Elick

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 pounds ground beef 80/20
• 3 large eggs, beaten
• 1 cup crushed Ritz crackers
• 1 small yellow onion, finely diced (about ½ cup)
• 1/2 green bell pepper, finely diced (about ½ cup)
• 12 ounces cheddar cheese, freshly shredded (about 3 cups)
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped finely chopped
• 1/2 cup whole milk
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/2 teaspoon fresh ground black pepper

For the topping:

• 1/2 cup ketchup
• 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon yellow mustard
• 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar

Instructions

• PREPARE OVEN AND PAN: Preheat the oven to 350°F. Line a baking dish or rimmed sheet pan with aluminum foil and coat lightly with cooking spray.
• MIX MEATLOAF: Add 1 1/2 pounds ground beef, 3 large eggs, beaten, 1 cup crushed Ritz crackers, 1 small yellow onion, finely diced , 1/2 green bell pepper, finely diced , 12 ounces cheddar cheese, freshly shredded , 1 teaspoon dried oregano, 1 teaspoon dried thyme, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped, 1/2 cup whole milk, 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce, 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, and 1/2 teaspoon fresh ground black pepper to a large mixing bowl. Mix just until combined.
• SHAPE LOAF: Transfer the meat mixture to the prepared pan and shape it into an even loaf. Keep the loaf compact, but do not pack it too tightly or it can bake up dense.
• BAKE: Bake the meatloaf for 30 minutes, until it is starting to set around the edges.
• MAKE TOPPING: Stir together 1/2 cup ketchup, 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar, 1 teaspoon yellow mustard, and 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar in a small bowl until smooth.
• GLAZE: Spoon the topping over the meatloaf and spread it into an even layer from edge to edge.
• FINISH BAKING: Return the meatloaf to the oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes more, until the topping is glossy and lightly caramelized and the center reaches 160°F.
• REST AND SERVE: Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This helps the juices settle so each slice stays tender and holds together.

Video

Notes

Make-Ahead: You can mix and shape the meatloaf up to 1 day ahead. Cover and refrigerate, then bake as directed.

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Reheating: Reheat slices in the microwave in 30-second bursts until warmed through, or cover with foil and reheat in a 325°F oven for 10 to 15 minutes.

Freezing: Freeze the fully baked and cooled meatloaf, whole or sliced, for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Ingredient Notes: Use ground beef with an 80/20 fat ratio for the juiciest texture. Freshly shredded cheddar cheese works best here because pre-shredded cheese can make the loaf a little drier. If you do not like green bell pepper, use red bell pepper or leave it out.

Nutrition

Serving: 1 | Calories: 538cal | Carbohydrates: 27g | Protein: 28g | Fat: 35g | Saturated Fat: 16g | Cholesterol: 166mg | Sodium: 751mg | Sugar: 19g | Fiber: 1g | Calcium: 383mg | Iron: 3mg

Originally published July 2019, updated and republished May 2026

Disclosure: Posts may contain affiliate links. If you purchase a product through an affiliate link your price will remain the same and The Slow Roasted Italian will automatically receive a small commission. Thank you for supporting us, it helps us keep creating new recipes.

The post Cracker Barrel Meatloaf Recipe (Copycat) + Video appeared first on The Slow Roasted Italian.

Turkey Burger Sliders

I mean, really, who doesn’t love sliders? They’re everything you love about a burger but in a cute, handheld size! 

Kids grab one, I grab two (or three, or four…), and everyone leaves full and satisfied!

It’s not your average turkey burger sliders recipe, either — these burgers are literally loaded with southwest chipotle flavor!

Next time you’re brainstorming appetizers, a fun new recipe for game day, or just a quick and painless weeknight meal, give this easy recipe for turkey burger sliders a try!

Ingredient Notes and Substitutions

• Ground Turkey – I’m usually grabbing the 93:7 ground turkey because that’s the first thing I see, but the less lean options (90, 85, etc.) are fine to use too.
  
  Substitute the ground turkey with ground chicken — no changes and no problem!
  
• Chipotle Seasoning – Mrs. Dash SW Chipotle Seasoning is my absolute favorite. I put it on everything! But you can use any chipotle seasoning blend you have in your pantry.
  
  And if you don’t have any in your pantry, you can easily whip some up with any chili powder, paprika, onion and garlic powder, and salt that you have lying around. Even better if you can add some dried cilantro and cumin!
  
• Salsa – Use any brand you like! I usually go with Wholly. Mild, medium, and hot are all delicious, depending on your spice preference.
  
  Pico de gallo is also an awesome topping, and it’s a little less moist. Lots of room to customize here!
  
• Guacamole – Again, Wholly is my go-to. But any brand works!
  
  I also have a few guacamole recipes up my sleeve — so whether you like it chunky, healthy as can be, or as close to that Chipotle guac as you can get, I’ve got you covered!
  
• Cheddar Cheese – Has anyone ever been upset to find melted cheddar on their burger? I don’t think so!
  
  Because this recipe for turkey burger sliders has a southwestern theme, some other cheeses include Pepper Jack, chipotle Jack, and Monterey Jack.
  
• Slider Rolls – Brioche, pretzel, sweet Hawaiian, basic buttery slider buns… really, any of them will work!

How to Make the Best Turkey Burger Sliders

• Watch the internal temperature of your patties.

Make sure you’re cooking your poultry long enough that it’s safe to eat! 

If you’re used to cooking with beef, you might be thrown off by the safe temperature for turkey: 165°F compared to beef’s 145°F.

Of course, you don’t want to overcook them, either. Using a meat thermometer and not making the patties too large will help a lot with this.

• No grill? No problem!

I usually make this turkey burger sliders recipe on a gas or charcoal grill, but a tabletop grill or even a grill pan that you use on your stove is totally fine.

Honestly, you could make these in any ol’ skillet, too — it’s all about high, even heat!

Preheating is your best friend when it comes to burgers! Let that grill, griddle, or stovetop get nice and hot before you get started.

• Explore other Tex-Mex toppings.

There are loads of mouthwatering Tex-Mex toppings — think of what you’d find at a taco bar — that would make these the best turkey burger sliders you’ve ever had!

The veggies are easy: any fajita vegetables are a no-brainer! Bell peppers, jalapenos, onions, etc. 

Pickled vegetables are also awesome for a little acidity and crunch.

Some crispy tortilla strips or Fritos are also spectacular options to give your sliders a little texture.

For some freshness, mango, pineapple, or corn salsa are a few sweeter, juicy alternatives to regular salsa or pico de gallo!

And any crema or queso is great for drizzling onto your sliders to add some moisture.

Prep Ahead

• Portion ground meat
• Season the patties

Kitchen Tools You Will Need

• Outdoor or Countertop Grill 
• Heat-Safe Spatula for flipping the patties and grilling the buns.
• Meat Thermometer – Never second-guess if grilled meats are safe to eat! A quick-read digital thermometer provides fast and accurate results.

Serving Suggestions 

Pair this recipe for turkey burger sliders with any and all BBQ and burger sides you have in your arsenal! Potato salad, fries, coleslaw — you name it!

Wouldn’t it be nice to stick to that Tex-Mex theme too? Southwestern pasta salad, mac & cheese, some crunchy nachos, or tangy Mexican street corn all sound good to me!

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

Turkey burger sliders can be refrigerated for up to 4 days.

Store the buns separately so that they don’t get soggy — those can be stored at room temperature, but make sure they’re in an airtight container to keep them from getting stale!

Reheat the patties by adding them to a skillet with a little water on medium heat. Cover and let them gently steam to get back to temperature without overcooking and drying out!

You can also do this in a microwave-safe bowl covered with a paper towel. 

Turkey Burger Sliders Recipe FAQ

Enjoy!

With love, from our simple kitchen to yours.

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Other Easy Slider Recipes

Instant Pot Root Beer Pulled Pork Sliders Recipe

Best Easy French Dip Sliders (20 Minute Recipe)

Cheesy Sausage and Pepper Italian Sliders Recipe + Video

Chicken Parmesan Sliders + Video

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Fully Loaded Tex-Mex Turkey Burger Sliders

Fully loaded Tex-Mex turkey burger sliders are piled high with a fiesta of southwestern flavors in one spectacular handheld package.

Course Main

Cuisine Tex Mex

Method Grill

Prep Time 10 minutes minutes

Cook Time 6 minutes minutes

Total Time 16 minutes minutes

Servings 8

Calories 288cal

Author Donna Elick

Equipment

• grill

Ingredients

• 24 ounces ground turkey about 1 ½ pounds
• 4 teaspoons Southwest chipotle seasoning
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/2 teaspoon fresh ground black pepper
• 4 ounces cheddar cheese, shredded (about 1 cup)
• 1 8-oz container salsa, drained
• 1 8-oz container guacamole
• 8 slider buns, split
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened

Instructions

• PREHEAT GRILL: Preheat a grill to high heat, about 450°F.
• FORM PATTIES: Divide 24 ounces ground turkey into 8 equal portions (about 3 ounces each). Shape into patties slightly larger than the slider buns and press a shallow indentation in the center of each patty.
• SEASON PATTIES: Sprinkle the patties evenly with 4 teaspoons Southwest chipotle seasoning, 1 teaspoon kosher salt, and 1/2 teaspoon fresh ground black pepper. Gently press the seasoning into all sides of the patties.
• GRILL BURGERS: Place patties on the grill and cook for about 3 minutes until lightly charred. Flip and cook another 3 to 4 minutes until fully cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
• ADD CHEESE: During the last minute of cooking, sprinkle about 2 tablespoons of the 4 ounces cheddar cheese, shredded over each patty and close the grill lid until melted.
• TOAST BUNS: Spread the cut sides of the 8 slider buns, split with 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened. Place buns butter-side down on the grill and toast for about 1 minute until golden.
• ASSEMBLE SLIDERS: Spread about 2 to 3 tablespoons of 1 8-oz container guacamole on the bottom buns. Place the cheeseburger patties on top, then spoon 2 to 3 tablespoons of 1 8-oz container salsa, drained over each burger.
• SERVE: Place the top buns on and serve immediately.

Notes

Make-Ahead: Patties can be formed up to 1 day ahead and stored covered in the refrigerator.

Storage: Store leftover cooked sliders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating: Reheat patties in a skillet over medium heat or in a 325°F oven for about 8 to 10 minutes until warmed through.

Freezing: Raw patties can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before cooking.

Ingredient Tip: Draining the salsa prevents the buns from getting soggy while still delivering fresh Tex-Mex flavor.

TSRI Tip: I highly recommend using our Favorite Salsa and Best Ever Guacamole (Chipotle Copycat) instead of store-bought versions. The fresh flavor makes these sliders absolutely irresistible.

Nutrition

Serving: 1 | Calories: 288cal | Carbohydrates: 28g | Protein: 28g | Fat: 7g | Saturated Fat: 3g | Cholesterol: 61mg | Sodium: 412mg | Sugar: 1g | Fiber: 2g | Calcium: 142mg | Iron: 2mg

Originally published June 2012, updated and republished May 2026

Disclosure: Posts may contain affiliate links. If you purchase a product through an affiliate link your price will remain the same and The Slow Roasted Italian will automatically receive a small commission. Thank you for supporting us, it helps us keep creating new recipes.

The post Tex Mex Turkey Burger Sliders appeared first on The Slow Roasted Italian.

WHY YOU’LL LOVE THIS STRAWBERRY BANANA SMOOTHIE RECIPE

• Ready in 5 minutes. No drama.
  
• Thick and creamy without adding ice.
  
• Made with simple, real ingredients.
  
• Sweet, fruity flavor that kids and grown-ups both go for.
  
• Easy to make ahead for a quick breakfast or snack.

Strawberry Banana Smoothie

One summer, all three of us drank this strawberry and banana smoothie every single morning for months.

It was just easy. No thinking. No fuss. I could make it half awake and still get something good on the table.

That’s how you know a recipe sticks.

After making it that many times, I can tell you… frozen strawberries are doing the heavy lifting here. They give you that thick, cold texture without watering everything down like ice does.

That’s the difference between a smoothie you tolerate and one you actually look forward to.

Simple. Reliable. And it just works.

INGREDIENT NOTES

• Orange Juice: This adds brightness and wakes up the strawberry flavor. You can use pulp-free if you want the smoothest texture.
  
• Pure Vanilla Extract: Just a small amount, but it softens the tang of the yogurt and makes the strawberry banana smoothie drink taste a little fuller.
  
• Plain Yogurt: Regular plain yogurt keeps the texture creamy without making it overly rich. Greek yogurt will work too, but it makes the smoothie thicker and tangier.
  
• Bananas: Ripe bananas are best here since they bring the natural sweetness. Spotty bananas are perfect.
  
• Frozen Strawberries: These do the heavy lifting for texture. Use frozen, not fresh, if you want that thick smoothie-shop consistency.

VARIATIONS

Flavor Boost: Swap the plain yogurt with strawberry or strawberry-banana yogurt.

Extra Citrus: Add a little more orange juice for a looser texture and brighter flavor.

Lighter Strawberry Flavor: Reduce the strawberries slightly if you want the banana flavor to come through more.

Sweeter Blend: Use very ripe bananas if you want more sweetness without adding anything else. Otherwise, a drizzle of honey or maple syrup will do the trick!

Extra Creamy: Use milk (dairy or non-dairy) in place of the orange juice.

Smoothie Pops: Pour the blended drink into popsicle molds for an easy frozen treat.

SERVING SUGGESTIONS

• Pour this strawberry banana smoothie drink into chilled glasses and enjoy with our Make Ahead Oven Baked French Toast.
  
• Serve alongside Bacon Egg and Cheese Breakfast Bombs for a grab-and-go breakfast that actually fills you up.
  
• Pair with our Almond Blueberry Breakfast Cake when brunch needs something easy that still feels a little bit special.
  
• Add this to a breakfast spread with Sausage Egg and Cheese Breakfast Sliders.
  
• Sip a strawberry banana smoothie as an afternoon pick-me-up with our Easy Banana Coffee Cake Muffins with Pecans.

STRAWBERRY AND BANANA SMOOTHIE FAQ

I’ve made enough smoothies over the years to know the difference between a good one and one that tastes like cold fruit paste.

This one lands right in that sweet spot. Thick, but still sippable. Creamy, but not heavy.

And the real trick is using frozen strawberries instead of ice. Ice just waters things down and dulls the flavor.

Frozen fruit keeps everything cold and gives you that smooth, almost milkshake texture without messing with the taste.

That matters. Especially with a recipe this simple, where every ingredient is pulling its weight.

Once you know how to make a strawberry banana smoothie just right, that blender will live on the counter.

TOOLS NEEDED

• Blender: A good blender makes quick work of the frozen fruit.
  
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: Helpful so the balance stays right.
  
• Knife: Just for peeling and breaking up the bananas if needed.
  
• Glasses or Mason Jars: Pour and serve your strawberry banana smoothie right away, or stash it in the fridge for later.

Enjoy!

With love, from our simple kitchen to yours.

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Other Easy Fruit Smoothies

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Strawberry Banana Smoothie (5 Ingredients)

This Strawberry Banana Smoothie is one of our favorite breakfast drinks! A power-packed shake loaded with OJ, yogurt, and fresh fruit.

Course Breakfast

Cuisine American

Method Blender

Prep Time 5 minutes minutes

Total Time 5 minutes minutes

Servings 2

Calories 280cal

Author Donna Elick

Equipment

• blender

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup orange juice
• 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 1 cup plain yogurt
• 2 medium bananas, peeled
• 3 cups frozen strawberries about 16 ounces

Instructions

• ADD INGREDIENTS: Add 1/2 cup orange juice, 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract, 1 cup plain yogurt, 2 medium bananas, peeled, and 3 cups frozen strawberries to a blender.
• BLEND: Blend on high speed for 30 to 60 seconds until the smoothie is completely smooth and creamy, with no chunks remaining.
• SERVE: Pour into glasses and serve immediately.

Notes

Make-Ahead: Smoothies are best made fresh, but you can blend and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Stir or shake before serving.

Storage: Store in a sealed jar or container in the refrigerator for up to 1 day.

Freezing: Freeze in an airtight container for up to 1 month. Thaw slightly and stir or re-blend before serving.

Ingredient Tip: Frozen strawberries give the smoothie a thick, cold texture without needing ice.

Nutrition

Serving: 1 | Calories: 280cal | Carbohydrates: 56g | Protein: 7g | Fat: 5g | Saturated Fat: 3g | Cholesterol: 16mg | Sodium: 60mg | Sugar: 36g | Fiber: 8g | Calcium: 196mg | Iron: 1mg

Originally published September 2011, updated and republished May 2026

Disclosure: Posts may contain affiliate links. If you purchase a product through an affiliate link your price will remain the same and The Slow Roasted Italian will automatically receive a small commission. Thank you for your support; it allows us to keep creating new recipes.

The post Strawberry Banana Smoothie Recipe (5 Ingredients) appeared first on The Slow Roasted Italian.

Strawberry Popsicles

The last thing I want to do in the summer is spend time at my oven or stove. I need to cool off, not stand in a hot kitchen.

That’s why I wanted to teach you all how to make strawberry popsicles that are no frills, no fuss, but so delicious — and with only berries, sugar, and lemon juice!

So summer is all about no-bake desserts, which very often turns into a popsicle palooza. They’re just so easy and so scrumptious when you can use ripe, seasonal fruit! 

Raspberries, kiwis, cantaloupe, pineapples and oranges… they’re all fair game for ice pops in my house. To be honest, so is coffee!

But you just can’t beat the classics, and nothing screams summer treat to me like simple strawberry popsicles.

Ingredient Notes and Substitutions

• Strawberries – Ripe, dark red berries are ideal for these ice pops. They have tons of juice, are easy to blend, and create the most gorgeous color!
  
  That’s not to say you can’t use frozen strawberries. You totally can! You’ll just want to let them thaw for a bit before blending so you don’t burn out your blender’s motor.
  
  Frozen fruit also tends to make homemade popsicles more watery, so overall, I recommend using fresh fruit whenever possible.
  
• Sugar – Just two tablespoons of white granulated sugar should be all you need for 10 homemade strawberry popsicles!
  
  Letting those berries macerate in the sugar really helps to bring out their natural sweet-and-tart flavor and aroma.
  
  You can start macerating the berries up to 24 hours in advance.
  
• Lemon Juice – Why lemon juice? Well, that little bit of acidity goes a long way!
  
  It balances out the sugar, matches the natural tartness of the strawberries, and just adds an overall bright taste that makes these pops taste amazingly refreshing!
  
  You could also use lime or even orange juice.

Tips and Tricks to Make Homemade Strawberry Popsicles

• Make them a little sweeter than you like.

Did you know that food tastes less sweet when it’s cold? It’s a thing!

Our taste buds are less receptive to cold food. So even if something tastes perfectly sweet when you’re mixing it up, you’re likely to find it not sweet enough once it’s frozen.

That’s why I recommend tasting your blended berries for sweetness before freezing. If it’s not sweet enough for you, it’ll definitely taste too bland once it’s frozen.

Add just a touch more sugar than you think you need, and your strawberry fruit popsicles will end up perfect!

• Best practices for using popsicle molds.

It’s easy to automatically fill all of the molds to the brim with your yummy berry concoction, but remember that liquid expands while it freezes!

So leave about ¼-inch of space in each mold to make sure they don’t spill over.

And there’s nothing more annoying than a lopsided popsicle stick! Keep those sticks in place with a little aluminum foil layered between the mold’s top and bottom.

This extra step will also make sure the tops don’t freeze to the popsicle, which is always a huge pain to thaw and peel off!

• Want a more intense flavor?

Because the ingredients are simple and natural, homemade strawberry popsicles are a lot more subtle than some of those store-bought ice pops!

Get a more concentrated flavor by adding strawberry jam or syrup to the blender — or swirled right into the molds!

Prep Ahead

• Chop the strawberries

Kitchen Tools You Will Need

• Ice Pop Mold – Silicone molds are great! This one comes with reusable sticks too.
• Blender – A high-powered blender is a must in every kitchen!

Bonus Flavor Ideas

Sweet and tangy strawberries taste so, so good with so many other fruits! Add bananas, raspberries, blueberries, blackberries, kiwi… literally anything fruit to these pops, and they’ll be a hit.

Either blend them up along with the berries or chop them into chunks and mix them in for texture.

Not into pairings? You can adapt this recipe to feature any of the above fruits and get amazing results.

And speaking of texture, I’ve also seen some really interesting fruit popsicles that use brown sugar instead of white to get a little extra variety in there!

So if you love the deep, caramel-like sweetness of brown sugar, that’s worth a try too.

Storing Strawberry Fruit Popsicles

Once frozen, wrap your strawberry popsicles in parchment paper or place them into separate baggies. Then, add all of those to a larger gallon-sized bag for maximum freshness. 

You can store them for months this way. And, it frees up your popsicle mold for a new batch!

Strawberry Popsicle Recipe FAQ

Enjoy!

With love, from our simple kitchen to yours.

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Other Easy Popsicle Recipes

Blueberry Popsicles (with Yogurt)

Berry Red White and Blue Popsicles

Banana Split Popsicles

Coffee Popsicles (Rocket Pops!)

🔥 TSRI’s Sizzlin’ Summer Ebook
Ready to level up your summer cooking? This exclusive collection of 30 reader-favorite recipes is packed with potluck legends, no-bake treats, and BBQ showstoppers.

👉 Snag your copy today and bring the heat to your summer table!

Buy the Ebook Now

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Sublime Strawberry Popsicles

These Strawberry Popsicles are a simple blend of fresh strawberries, a squeeze of lemon, and just enough sugar for a soft, scrumptious bite!

Course Dessert

Cuisine American

Method Freezer

Prep Time 5 minutes minutes

Freeze 4 hours hours

Total Time 4 hours hours 5 minutes minutes

Servings 10 popsicles

Calories 39cal

Author Donna Elick

Ingredients

• 2 pounds fresh strawberries, washed, hulled, and halved (about 5 cups)
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice

Instructions

• MACERATE STRAWBERRIES: Place 2 pounds fresh strawberries, washed, hulled, and halved in a medium bowl. Sprinkle with 2 tablespoons granulated sugar and toss to coat. Let the strawberries sit for about 30 minutes until they release their juices.
• BLEND FRUIT: Transfer the strawberries and their juices to a blender or food processor. Add 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice and blend until the mixture is smooth and fully pureed.
• FILL MOLDS: Pour the strawberry mixture evenly into popsicle molds, leaving about ¼ inch of space at the top of each mold.
• INSERT STICKS: Cover the molds with their lids or aluminum foil and insert popsicle sticks.
• FREEZE: Place the molds in the freezer and freeze for at least 4 hours, or until completely frozen. For the firmest popsicles, freeze for up to 24 hours.
• SERVE: To release the popsicles, run warm water over the outside of the molds for about 10 seconds and gently pull the popsicles out.

Notes

Make-Ahead: These popsicles can be made several days in advance and stored in the freezer until ready to serve.

Storage: Store popsicles in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 2 weeks.

Freezing Tip: If the popsicles stick to the mold, run warm water over the outside of the mold for a few seconds to release them easily.

Ingredient Tip: Ripe, bright red strawberries will give these popsicles the sweetest flavor and best color.

Nutrition

Serving: 1 | Calories: 39cal | Carbohydrates: 10g | Protein: 1g | Fat: 1g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Sodium: 1mg | Sugar: 7g | Fiber: 2g | Calcium: 15mg | Iron: 1mg

Originally published June 2012, updated and republished April 2026

Disclosure: Posts may contain affiliate links. If you purchase a product through an affiliate link your price will remain the same and The Slow Roasted Italian will automatically receive a small commission. Thank you for supporting us, it helps us keep creating new recipes.

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Guacamole Burger

You know I’m all about Mexican flavors when I’m not busy whipping up Italian favorites… and I love plenty of heat either way…!

So I figured, why not make a burger with Tex Mex flavor and top it with some tasty dips? And boy, did that idea pay off in spades!!

The salsa is fresh and tangy, the guacamole is savory and creamy, and the seasoned burger patty makes your taste buds tingle. I’m telling you, there wasn’t a crumb left on my plate!

I’ve also got a turkey burger version that’s a bit leaner and not quite as heavy. And if you aren’t a fan of avocados, you’ll love this cheese-stuffed burger that’s also topped with salsa.

Ingredient Notes and Substitutions

• Lean Ground Beef – Because of all the moist toppings, we’re going extra lean for the patties — 93% blend, in fact!
  
• Tex Mex Seasoning – Make your own or grab a bottle of Mrs Dash SW Chipotle seasoning and add a little salt.
  
• Cheddar Cheese – Instead of adding slices to your patties, top them with shredded cheddar for a better melt.
  
  Monterey Jack or Colby are great swaps, or try Pepper Jack for more kick.
  
• Guacamole – Double down on salsa flavor and make your Tex Mex burger with Wholly Guacamole’s Pico de Gallo guac.
  
  Prefer to make it from scratch? I’ve got a chunky guacamole recipe that will do the trick, plus a lighter option without any sour cream or yogurt.
  
• Salsa – I’m a big fan of pico de gallo on burgers myself, but any kind of salsa will work! Grab a jar from the store or make it from scratch.
  
  I’ve got recipes for restaurant-style, roasted tomato, or a boozy Bloody Mary version that’s full of heat!
  
• Hamburger Buns – Use your favorite, whether it’s classic sesame seed or buttery brioche. Don’t forget to toast them on the grill before assembling your guacamole burger!

Tips and Tricks to Make the Perfect Tex Mex Burger

• Rub the seasonings on the patties instead of mixing them in.

The flavor of your chipotle burger will be much bolder this way, and having the seasonings on the surface helps with the sear.

Shape the patties first, making them a little wider than your buns. Add a small indent in the center (this prevents it from doming up when cooked), then sprinkle the seasoning mix on top.

Use your fingers to gently press the spices into the meat to help them stick!

• Keep beef patties cold until you’re ready to grill.

Unlike other cuts, ground meat holds its shape better when it’s chilled compared to room temperature.

This means you can shape and season your burger patties ahead of time, then carry them right out to the grill when you’re ready.

• Use a thicker salsa for the best eating experience.

If it’s overly watery, your guacamole burger will be hard to eat — and extra messy! You may need to strain off the extra liquid or spoon it carefully from the bowl.

Make sure to toast those buns on the grill as well. The crunchier texture will prevent the buns from becoming soggy.

Prep Ahead

• Mix Tex Mex seasoning
• Shred cheese
• Make salsa and guacamole (if needed)

What You’ll Need for This Recipe

• Outdoor or Countertop Grill
• Mixing Bowls – I like to have a variety of sizes on hand, and this set has them all.
• Cheese Grater – Fresh cheese makes this recipe even better! Skip the bagged shreds and buy a block to grate yourself.
• Heat-Safe Spatula and BBQ Tray for transferring the beef patties on and off the grill.

Serving Suggestions

Once your burgers are off the grill, let them rest for a few minutes to stay juicy. You can use this time to toast the buns with a little butter — just for a minute or they’ll burn.

Add guacamole to the bottom bun, then top with a cheese-covered patty. Spoon salsa on top and finish with the other bun.

Serve your burger Tex Mex style with a side of street corn salad and grilled sweet potato fries. And if you’re dining on the patio, add a frosty margarita while you’re at it!

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

Keep grilled beef patties in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Or, freeze them for 2-3 months.

Any leftover salsa can also be kept in the fridge for a few days, but the guacamole is best made fresh. The longer it sits, the more it’ll brown.

Reheat chipotle burger patties in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes, or in the air fryer for 5-6 minutes.

You can place one in a skillet with a splash of water and cover it with a lid. Heat over medium-low until warmed through, then assemble your Tex Mex burger like new!

Chipotle Burger FAQ

Enjoy!

With love, from our simple kitchen to yours.

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Other Easy Burger Recipes

Whataburger Patty Melt Copycat Recipe

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Muffaletta Cheeseburger

Smokehouse Barbecue Bacon Burger

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Tex Mex Guacamole Burger

Make this Guacamole Burger packed full of Tex Mex seasoning. With cheese and salsa in the mix, it's an incredibly moist and flavorful bite!

Course Main

Cuisine Tex Mex

Method Grill

Prep Time 15 minutes minutes

Cook Time 10 minutes minutes

Total Time 25 minutes minutes

Servings 4

Calories 761cal

Author Donna Elick

Ingredients

• 2 pounds 80-85 percent lean ground beef
• 2 teaspoons Tex-Mex seasoning
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/2 teaspoon fresh ground black pepper
• 4 ounces cheddar cheese, shredded (about 1 cup)
• 1 cup guacamole
• 1 cup pico de gallo
• 4 large hamburger buns
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened

Instructions

• PREHEAT GRILL: Preheat a grill to high heat, about 450°F.
• FORM PATTIES: Divide 2 pounds 80-85 percent lean ground beef into 4 equal portions and shape into patties about ½ inch thick. Form each patty slightly larger than the hamburger buns and press a shallow indentation in the center so the burgers cook evenly.
• SEASON BURGERS: Sprinkle 2 teaspoons Tex-Mex seasoning, 1 teaspoon kosher salt, and 1/2 teaspoon fresh ground black pepper evenly over both sides of the patties. Gently press the seasoning into the meat.
• GRILL BURGERS: Place the patties on the grill and cook for about 4 to 5 minutes until a browned crust forms. Flip the burgers and cook another 4 minutes for medium doneness, until the internal temperature reaches about 160°F.
• ADD CHEESE: During the last minute of cooking, sprinkle about 4 ounces cheddar cheese, shredded over each burger and close the grill lid until the cheese melts.
• TOAST BUNS: Spread the cut sides of the 4 large hamburger buns with 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened. Place the buns butter-side down on the grill and toast for about 1 minute until golden brown.
• ASSEMBLE BURGERS: Spread about ¼ cup of the 1 cup guacamole on the bottom half of each bun. Place the cheeseburger on top, then spoon about ¼ cup of the 1 cup pico de gallo over the burger.
• SERVE: Place the top buns on the burgers and serve immediately while warm.

Notes

Make-Ahead: The burger patties can be formed up to 1 day ahead and stored covered in the refrigerator until ready to grill.

Storage: Store leftover cooked burgers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating: Reheat burgers in a skillet over medium-low heat or in a 325°F oven for about 10 minutes until warmed through.

Freezing: Raw burger patties can be frozen for up to 3 months. Place parchment paper between patties and store in a freezer-safe bag.

Stovetop Method: If you don’t have a grill, cook the burgers in a large skillet or cast iron pan. Heat the skillet over medium-high heat and add the patties. Cook for about 4 to 5 minutes until a browned crust forms. Flip and cook another 4 minutes until the internal temperature reaches about 160°F. Sprinkle the cheddar cheese on top during the last minute of cooking and cover the pan briefly to melt the cheese. Toast the buttered buns in the same skillet for about 30 to 60 seconds until golden.

Nutrition

Serving: 1 | Calories: 761cal | Carbohydrates: 36g | Protein: 57g | Fat: 43g | Saturated Fat: 16g | Cholesterol: 176mg | Sodium: 954mg | Sugar: 9g | Fiber: 5g | Calcium: 296mg | Iron: 7mg

Originally published May 2012, updated and republished April 2026

Disclosure: Posts may contain affiliate links. If you purchase a product through an affiliate link your price will remain the same and The Slow Roasted Italian will automatically receive a small commission. Thank you for supporting us, it helps us keep creating new recipes.

The post Tex Mex Guacamole Burger Recipe appeared first on The Slow Roasted Italian.

WHY YOU’LL LOVE THIS ROASTED SALSA VERDE RECIPE

• Fresh roasted flavor that beats store-bought
  
• Bright, tangy, and perfectly balanced
  
• Easy 30-minute recipe
  
• Freezer friendly
  
• One of the most versatile sauces in the kitchen

Roasted Salsa Verde

We love, love, love salsa verde in this house. That bright, tangy green salsa. You know, the one that shows up on every taco truck table. 

Honestly, we use it in so many recipes that it’s almost embarrassing. Enchiladas, carnitas, tacos, burrito bowls, casseroles, even soup… if there’s a way to add salsa verde to it, we’ve probably tried it.

Often, I’ll reach for Macayo’s Salsa Verde, which is one of my favorite shortcuts. But when I really want to knock a recipe out of the park, I make it from scratch.

Making salsa verde with roasted tomatillos and peppers makes all the difference. The flavor gets deeper, a little smoky, and much more complex than anything from a jar.

And once you taste it fresh? You start finding excuses to put this roasted salsa verde on everything.

INGREDIENT NOTES 

• Tomatillos: The base of salsa verde. When roasted, they develop a deeper, slightly sweet flavor. The fruit inside should feel firm and smooth, but the husks should be slightly loose.
  
• Jalapeño & Serrano Peppers: Provide heat and complexity. Removing the seeds keeps the salsa mild.
  
• Garlic: Roasting softens the sharp bite and adds savory depth.
  
• White Onion: Adds brightness and balance to the salsa.
  
• Fresh Cilantro: Essential for that classic salsa verde flavor.
  
• Lime Juice: Brings acidity that brightens the entire salsa.

VARIATIONS

Smoky Salsa Verde: Add a roasted poblano pepper to the mix.

Extra Spicy Version: Leave the seeds in the peppers and add another serrano.

Avocado Salsa Verde: Blend in 1 ripe avocado for a creamy version.

Charred Tomatillo Salsa: Grill the tomatillos and peppers instead of broiling.

SERVING SUGGESTIONS 

• A must for chicken tacos and carnitas!
  
• Use it for enchiladas or smothered burritos.
  
• Eat roasted tomatillo salsa verde straight with tortilla chips.
  
• Spoon some over burrito bowls.
  
• Drizzle over fried eggs, huevos rancheros, or breakfast tacos.
  
• Use this roasted salsa verde recipe in our chicken soup.
  

ROASTED TOMATILLO SALSA VERDE FAQ

Roasting the vegetables before blending is what makes this roasted tomatillo salsa verde recipe so special. 

The high heat caramelizes the tomatillos and lightly chars the peppers, which adds depth and removes the raw bite you sometimes get with uncooked salsa verde.

Letting the salsa rest in the refrigerator for a little while also helps the flavors meld together, creating a brighter and more balanced sauce.

TOOLS NEEDED 

• Rimmed Baking Sheet: For roasting the tomatillos, peppers, and garlic.
  
• Blender or Food Processor: To blend the sauce into an even, smooth consistency.
  
• Knife and Cutting Board: Prepping veggies is a breeze.
  
• Citrus Juicer: Optional, but it easily gets every last drop out of the limes.

Enjoy!

With love, from our simple kitchen to yours.

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Other Easy Condiment Recipes

Easy Homemade Red Enchilada Sauce Recipe

Homemade Honey Mustard Dipping Sauce Recipe + Video

Big Mac Sauce McDonald’s Copycat Recipe

Best Ever Jack Daniels BBQ Sauce (Homemade Recipe)

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Roasted Salsa Verde

Roasted Salsa Verde is easy to make from scratch, and the complex flavor is so much better than anything jarred! Ready in 30 minutes or less.

Course Condiment

Cuisine Mexican

Method Stovetop

Prep Time 10 minutes minutes

Cook Time 10 minutes minutes

Cool Time 10 minutes minutes

Total Time 30 minutes minutes

Servings 24 makes about 3 cups

Calories 11cal

Author Donna Elick

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 pounds tomatillos, husked, rinsed, and halved
• 1 medium jalapeño pepper, halved and seeds removed (for more heat, leave some seeds)
• 1 medium serrano pepper, halved and seeds removed (for more heat, leave some seeds)
• 3 cloves garlic, peeled
• 1/4 small white onion, chopped about ½ cup
• 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (leaves and tender stems)
• 1 medium lime, juiced (about 2 tablespoons)
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt

Instructions

• PREHEAT BROILER: Place an oven rack about 6 inches below the broiler and preheat the broiler. Lightly grease a rimmed baking sheet.
• ARRANGE VEGETABLES: Place 1 1/2 pounds tomatillos, husked, rinsed, and halved cut side down on the baking sheet. Add 1 medium jalapeño pepper, halved and seeds removed , 1 medium serrano pepper, halved and seeds removed, and 3 cloves garlic, peeled.
• BROIL VEGETABLES: Broil for about 5 minutes until the vegetables begin to blister. Remove the garlic cloves so they do not burn. Continue broiling the tomatillos and peppers for another 5 to 7 minutes until the skins are charred and blistered.
• COOL VEGETABLES: Remove the baking sheet from the oven and allow the vegetables to cool for about 10 minutes.
• BLEND SALSA: Add the roasted tomatillos, peppers, garlic, 1/4 small white onion, chopped, 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped, 1 medium lime, juiced, and 1 teaspoon kosher salt to a blender or food processor.
• PULSE: Pulse until the salsa reaches your desired consistency. For a chunkier salsa, pulse a few times. For a smoother salsa, blend longer.
• SERVE: Taste and adjust salt if needed. Serve immediately or refrigerate for later use.

Notes

Make-Ahead: Salsa verde can be made up to 2 days ahead. The flavor improves as it sits in the refrigerator.

Storage: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.

Freezing: Freeze salsa verde in small containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and stir before serving.

Heat Tip: For a milder salsa, remove all seeds from the peppers. For a spicier salsa, leave some seeds or add another serrano pepper.

Ingredient Tip: Tomatillos should be bright green and firm with a dry papery husk. Rinse them well after removing the husk to remove the sticky residue.

Nutrition

Serving: 1 | Calories: 11cal | Carbohydrates: 2g | Protein: 0.3g | Fat: 0.3g | Saturated Fat: 0.04g | Sodium: 108mg | Sugar: 1g | Fiber: 1g | Calcium: 4mg | Iron: 0.2mg

Originally published April 2026

Disclosure: Posts may contain affiliate links. If you purchase a product through an affiliate link your price will remain the same and The Slow Roasted Italian will automatically receive a small commission. Thank you for supporting us, it helps us keep creating new recipes.

The post Roasted Salsa Verde appeared first on The Slow Roasted Italian.

WHY YOU’LL LOVE THIS SLOW COOKER CARNITAS RECIPE

• Only three ingredients and almost zero prep
  
• Slow cooker does nearly all the work
  
• Perfect for feeding a crowd
  
• Crispy carnitas texture with a simple broiler trick
  
• Great for tacos, burritos, bowls, and nachos

Slow Cooker Carnitas

This carnitas recipe for the slow cooker is one of those “how is this so good with so little effort?” dinners.

It’s barely even a recipe… just pork, salsa, and onion. But somehow the crockpot turns it into something that tastes like you spent all day working on it.

The pork slowly cooks down until it’s fall-apart tender, soaking up all that bright flavor from the salsa.

When you shred it and give it a quick trip under the broiler, those edges get crispy and golden while the inside stays juicy.

And suddenly that simple slow cooker pork turns into proper carnitas. The kind that belongs piled into warm tortillas with lime and cilantro.

INGREDIENT NOTES

• Pork Shoulder: This cut is perfect for carnitas because it contains enough fat and connective tissue to become incredibly tender during slow cooking.
  
• Green Salsa: Provides the seasoning and acidity that balances the richness of the pork.
  
• White Onion: Has a clean, sharp flavor that complements the salsa.
  
• Salt & Pepper: A simple finish that brings the flavor together once the pork is shredded.

VARIATIONS

Citrus Carnitas: Add fresh orange juice and lime juice before cooking.

Spicy Carnitas: Use a hotter salsa or add diced jalapeños.

Classic Seasonings: Rub pork shoulder with cumin, dried oregano, and chili powder. Cook in a little chicken stock with lime juice.

Deeper Flavor: Sear the meat on all sides before placing it in the slow cooker.

SERVING SUGGESTIONS

• Make street tacos with extra onion and cilantro.
  
• Add a Southwest chopped salad on the side.
  
• Serve slow cooker carnitas with flour tortillas, pico de gallo, cilantro, and lime wedges.
  
• Use in place of ground beef for sheet pan nachos.
  
• Pile shredded pork onto rice bowls with black or pinto beans, corn salsa, and avocado.
  
• Stuff into sheet pan quesadillas or enchiladas.

CARNITAS RECIPE SLOW COOKER FAQ

Carnitas are all about texture contrast.

The slow cooker makes the pork incredibly tender and juicy, but the magic happens when you crisp the shredded meat.

Spreading the pork on a sheet pan and broiling it quickly caramelizes the edges while keeping the inside moist.

This creates the perfect mix of tender meat and crispy bites… exactly what great carnitas should have.

TOOLS NEEDED

• Slow Cooker: Minimum of 5-quart to fit the pork shoulder.
  
• Cutting Board: If you don’t want to shred pork carnitas in the slow cooker.
  
• Two Forks: For shredding. Doesn’t take too much effort!
  
• Rimmed Baking Sheet: A quick broil gets the edges crispy.

Enjoy!

With love, from our simple kitchen to yours.

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Slow Cooker Carnitas (3-Ingredient Pork Recipe)

These Slow Cooker Carnitas are so easy, they just about cook themselves. Toss pork shoulder, onion, and salsa verde in the crockpot and go!

Course Main

Cuisine Mexican

Method Slow Cooker

Prep Time 5 minutes minutes

Cook Time 4 hours hours

Total Time 4 hours hours 5 minutes minutes

Servings 10 people

Calories 314cal

Author Donna Elick

Equipment

• slow cooker

Ingredients

• 5 pounds boneless pork shoulder
• 2 cups green salsa I like 505
• 1 medium white onion, diced (about 1 cup)
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/2 teaspoon fresh ground black pepper

Instructions

• ADD INGREDIENTS: Place 5 pounds boneless pork shoulder in the bottom of a slow cooker. Sprinkle 1 medium white onion, diced over the pork and pour 2 cups green salsa evenly over the top.
• COOK: Cover and cook on High for 3 to 4 hours or on Low for 6 to 8 hours, until the pork is very tender and easily pulls apart with a fork.
• SHRED PORK: Remove the pork from the slow cooker and place it on a large cutting board. Use two forks to shred the meat into bite-size pieces.
• SEASON: Return the shredded pork to the slow cooker and sprinkle with 1 teaspoon kosher salt and 1/2 teaspoon fresh ground black pepper. Stir to combine.
• ABSORB FLAVOR: Cover and cook on High for 30 minutes longer so the shredded pork absorbs the cooking juices.
• FINISH: Stir once more before serving. Taste for seasoning. Add more salt as desired.
• OPTIONAL – CRISP THE CARNITAS: Spread shredded pork on a rimmed baking sheet and broil 3 to 5 minutes until crispy.

  Then return the crispy pork to the slow cooker juices or serve immediately.

Video

Notes

Make-Ahead: Carnitas can be made up to 2 days ahead and stored in the refrigerator. Reheat gently before serving.

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat or microwave in 30-second intervals until warmed through.

Freezing: Freeze shredded carnitas in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Ingredient Tip: Use a flavorful green salsa. A salsa made with tomatillos, garlic, and lime gives the carnitas bright flavor and balances the richness of the pork.

Nutrition

Serving: 6ounces | Calories: 314cal | Carbohydrates: 4g | Protein: 51g | Fat: 8g | Saturated Fat: 2g | Cholesterol: 136mg | Sodium: 448mg | Sugar: 3g | Fiber: 1g | Calcium: 18mg | Iron: 2mg

Originally published November 2015, updated and republished April 2026

Disclosure: Posts may contain affiliate links. If you purchase a product through an affiliate link your price will remain the same and The Slow Roasted Italian will automatically receive a small commission. Thank you for supporting us, it helps us keep creating new recipes.

The post Slow Cooker Carnitas (3-Ingredient Pork Recipe) + Video appeared first on The Slow Roasted Italian.

Pesto Burger

Imagine a perfectly grilled beef burger drizzled with a sweet balsamic reduction.

Served atop a layer of fresh chunky tomato sauce on a toasted ciabatta bun, it’s enough to make your stomach growl and your taste buds swoon.

Add a slice of fresh mozzarella and a spoonful of fresh pesto mayonnaise, and you may just have to pick your tongue up off the floor!

It’s everything you love about a traditional caprese salad, transformed into a hearty pesto mozzarella burger fresh off the grill.

The idea for a caprese burger came to me after trying the Signature Balsamic Vinegar of Modena from the Fresina Pasta Company in Baton Rouge, Louisiana.

Unfortunately, they’ve since retired, but it was truly the best balsamic I have ever tasted.

How good? Let me say this… When I made the reduction for this caprese burger recipe, I couldn’t stop eating it off the spoon. I had to make two batches just to have enough for the burgers!!

If you’re a balsamic fan too, I encourage you to think outside the box — it’s good for so much more than vinaigrettes. I’ve used it as a glaze for meatloaf, a dip for Brussel sprouts, and even in strawberry popsicles!

Ingredient Notes and Substitutions

• Lean Ground Beef – This pesto burger has loads more moisture than usual, so we’re using a 93% lean blend for balance.
  
• Salt & Pepper – We’re keeping the seasonings simple since all the toppings are quite intense. Wait to season the balsamic burger patties until just before grilling.
  
  The salt draws out moisture, so adding it too early will lead to dry burgers.
  
• Balsamic Vinegar – Quality really does make a difference, so try to grab the nicest bottle you can manage!
  
• Chunky Tomato Sauce – This is much closer to a pizza or pasta sauce than the regular canned stuff. Look for a chunky sauce made with San Marzano tomatoes, or make one yourself!
  
• Mozzarella – It must be fresh! Slice it thick — up to ¼-inch — so it becomes nice and gooey while still holding its shape.
  
• Pesto Mayonnaise – Combine your favorite pesto (store-bought or homemade) with olive oil mayonnaise for the best flavor and texture.
  
  You can get away with regular mayo if you don’t want to buy a separate jar, but do not use Miracle Whip!
  
• Ciabatta Buns – Of course, we’re using an Italian bread for this caprese burger recipe! It gets perfectly crispy on the grill, so don’t forget to toast it.
  
  If you’re not a fan, substitute brioche or potato buns, or maybe Kaiser rolls.

Tips and Tricks to Make the Perfect Caprese Burger

• Start with the balsamic reduction.

It takes some time to make and requires constant whisking. Once the vinegar has reduced by half, you’ll need to let it sit for at least 15 minutes to thicken even more and cool.

Good news is that you can make a reduction well ahead of time if needed! Store it in a jar in the fridge, then let it come to room temperature before using.

• Chill the burger patties once formed.

This helps them hold their shape and prevents them from falling apart when flipped on the grill.

Because there isn’t anything mixed into the meat, you can form the patties up to a day ahead of time and leave them covered in the refrigerator.

Just remember to add the salt and pepper before grilling!

• Toast the buns right on the grill.

Ciabatta can be dense and chewy, but it becomes light and crispy when toasted — the perfect contrast to the other textures in this pesto burger.

Keep a close eye on them, as they can burn pretty quickly. A minute or two should do it!

Toasting also prevents the buns from becoming soggy when layered with the tomato sauce and pesto mayonnaise.

Prep Ahead

• Make balsamic glaze
• Slice mozzarella
• Make pesto mayonnaise

What You’ll Need for This Recipe

• Outdoor or Countertop Grill
• Saucepan for making the balsamic reduction
• Mixing Bowls – One for mixing the ground beef and another for the pesto mayonnaise.
• Food Processor – If you’re making the pesto from scratch, just add the mayo and pulse again!

Serving Suggestions

You don’t need much to make a meal out of this pesto mozzarella burger. Meat, veggies, cheese… it’s all right there!

I love pairing it with my roasted vegetable penne pasta or a crunchy summer vegetable salad. Or, toss some zucchini on the grill at the same time as the burgers.

Finish off the meal with a sweet taste of Italy, whether it’s homemade cannoli or a creamy affogato.

Storing and Reheating Balsamic Burger Patties

Transfer grilled burgers to an airtight container once cool, then store in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days.

All the other components — tomato sauce, pesto mayo, and mozzarella — should be stored separately in the fridge and assembled as needed.

Warm balsamic burger patties in the oven at 350°F or in a skillet on the stove until warmed through. I like to add a splash of water and a lid when using a skillet to help them heat through evenly.

Caprese Burger Recipe FAQ

Enjoy!

With love, from our simple kitchen to yours.

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Other Easy Burger Recipes

Stovetop Burgers

Best Homemade Butter Burger Recipe (Culver’s Copycat)

Gourmet Philly Cheesesteak Burger

Bacon in a Burger Recipe (50/50 Burger)

🔥 TSRI’s Sizzlin’ Summer Ebook
Ready to level up your summer cooking? This exclusive collection of 30 reader-favorite recipes is packed with potluck legends, no-bake treats, and BBQ showstoppers.

👉 Snag your copy today and bring the heat to your summer table!

Buy the Ebook Now

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Gourmet Caprese Pesto Burger

Layer this Pesto Burger with luscious tomato, creamy mozzarella, and a sweet balsamic reduction. Everything you love about summer in one bite!

Course Main

Cuisine American

Method Grill

Prep Time 15 minutes minutes

Cook Time 8 minutes minutes

Total Time 23 minutes minutes

Servings 4

Calories 679cal

Author Donna Elick

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 pounds 80 to 85 percent lean ground beef
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/2 teaspoon fresh ground black pepper
• 1/2 cup good balsamic vinegar
• 1 cup chunky tomato sauce
• 4 ounces fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced into 4 slices
• 1/2 cup prepared pesto
• 3 tablespoons olive oil mayonnaise
• 4 ciabatta buns, split

Instructions

• MAKE BALSAMIC REDUCTION: Add 1/2 cup good balsamic vinegar to a small saucepan over medium heat. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to medium-low. Simmer for 6 to 8 minutes until the vinegar reduces by about half and becomes slightly syrupy. Remove from heat and set aside to cool. The sauce will thicken as it cools.
• PREHEAT GRILL: Preheat a grill to medium-high heat, about 400°F.
• FORM PATTIES: Place 1 1/2 pounds 80 to 85 percent lean ground beef in a large bowl and gently divide into 4 equal portions. Shape each portion into a patty slightly larger than the ciabatta buns. Press a shallow indentation into the center of each patty so the burgers cook evenly.
• SEASON BURGERS: Sprinkle the patties evenly with 1 teaspoon kosher salt and 1/2 teaspoon fresh ground black pepper on both sides.
• GRILL BURGERS: Place the patties on the grill and cook for 3 to 4 minutes until a browned crust forms. Flip the burgers and cook another 3 to 4 minutes for medium doneness, until the internal temperature reaches about 160°F.
• ADD CHEESE: During the last minute of cooking, place 1 slice of 4 ounces fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced into 4 slices on each burger. Close the grill lid so the cheese melts.
• TOAST BUNS: Place 4 ciabatta buns, split cut side down on the grill and toast for about 30 to 60 seconds until lightly golden.
• MAKE PESTO MAYO: In a small bowl stir together 1/2 cup prepared pesto and 3 tablespoons olive oil mayonnaise until smooth.
• ASSEMBLE BURGERS: Spoon about ¼ cup of the 1 cup chunky tomato sauce onto the bottom half of each bun. Place the cheeseburger on top. Drizzle a little balsamic reduction over the cheese. Spread about 2 tablespoons pesto mayo on the top bun and place it over the burger.
• SERVE: Serve immediately while the burgers are warm and the cheese is melted.

Notes

Make-Ahead: The balsamic reduction and pesto mayonnaise can be made up to 2 days ahead and stored in the refrigerator.

Storage: Store leftover cooked burger patties in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating: Reheat burgers in a skillet over medium-low heat or in a 325°F oven for about 10 minutes until warmed through.

Freezing: Raw burger patties can be frozen for up to 3 months. Place parchment between patties and store in a freezer-safe bag. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before cooking.

Ingredient Tip: Fresh mozzarella melts smoothly and gives the burger a creamy Caprese flavor that pairs beautifully with pesto and balsamic.

Nutrition

Serving: 1 | Calories: 679cal | Carbohydrates: 36g | Protein: 49g | Fat: 36g | Saturated Fat: 11g | Cholesterol: 140mg | Sodium: 1040mg | Sugar: 7g | Fiber: 2g | Calcium: 178mg | Iron: 5mg

Originally published July 2012, updated and republished April 2026

Disclosure: Posts may contain affiliate links. If you purchase a product through an affiliate link your price will remain the same and The Slow Roasted Italian will automatically receive a small commission. Thank you for supporting us, it helps us keep creating new recipes.

The post Gourmet Caprese Pesto Burger Recipe appeared first on The Slow Roasted Italian.

WHY YOU’LL LOVE CHIPOTLE CORN SALSA

• Bright, fresh Chipotle-style flavor
  
• Sweet corn with smoky roasted poblano
  
• Perfect for tacos, burritos, bowls, or chips
  
• Quick to make and great for parties
  
• One of the most popular Chipotle copycat recipes

Chipotle Corn Salsa Recipe

I have a bit of a thing for Chipotle.

Actually… more than a bit.

I love it so much that over the years I’ve recreated a whole lineup of Chipotle copycat recipes at home. It started with one or two favorites, and before long, we had an entire menu of them.

Now one of my favorite ways to entertain is to build a Chipotle-at-home food bar.

A couple of main proteins in slow cookers, a stack of tortillas, bowls of toppings, and suddenly everyone is building their own burritos and rice bowls.

This chile corn salsa is always part of that spread.

It’s bright, fresh, and packed with flavor: sweet corn, roasted poblano, a little heat from jalapeños, and plenty of lime. It’s the kind of topping that works on everything… and somehow tastes even better the next day.

INGREDIENT NOTES

• Sweet Corn: White sweet corn is closest to the Chipotle version, but yellow corn works beautifully too.
  
• Poblano Peppers: Roasting them adds smoky depth that makes the salsa taste restaurant-quality. You can use fire roasted diced green chiles to make this Chipotle corn salsa recipe even faster. 
  
• Jalapeños: Bring fresh heat. Adjust the amount depending on your spice preference.
  
• Red Onion: Adds sharpness and color contrast.
  
• Fresh Lime & Lemon Juice: The citrus brightens the entire salsa and keeps the flavors balanced.

VARIATIONS

Mild Version: Remove the jalapeño seeds or use only one pepper.

Spicy Version: Add extra jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne.

Grilled Corn Salsa: Use grilled fresh corn instead of frozen for deeper flavor.

Mango Corn Salsa: Add diced fresh mango for sweetness.

SERVING SUGGESTIONS

• Enjoy Chipotle corn sala with tortilla chips.
  
• Serve with Chipotle copycat barbacoa or pork carnitas.
  
• Add to tacos or burritos.
  
• Spoon over grilled chicken or steak.
  
• Use in burrito bowls or walking tacos.
  
• Perfect topping for nachos.

CORN SALSA CHIPOTLE FAQ

The roasted poblano peppers are what really elevate this corn salsa Chipotle recipe.

Roasting concentrates their flavor and adds a subtle smokiness that balances the sweetness of the corn. Then comes the heat from the jalapeños.

Letting the salsa rest for about 30 minutes before serving allows the citrus, onion, and peppers to meld together so the flavors taste brighter and more balanced.

TOOLS NEEDED

• Baking Sheet: To roast the poblanos.
  
• Aluminum Foil: Lines the baking sheet for easy cleanup.
  
• Mixing Bowl: Cover with plastic wrap to steam the peppers. Use again to mix the Chipotle corn salsa.
  
• Cutting Board + Sharp Knife: Makes prep easy.

Enjoy!

With love, from our simple kitchen to yours.

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Chipotle Corn Salsa Recipe

This Chipotle Corn Salsa Recipe is an easy copycat of the spicy corn salsa at Chipotle Mexican Grill. The flavor is out of this world!

Course Side Dish

Cuisine Mexican

Method Mixed, Oven

Prep Time 10 minutes minutes

Cook Time 20 minutes minutes

Total Time 30 minutes minutes

Servings 12

Calories 49cal

Author Donna Elick

Ingredients

• 2 poblano peppers
• 4 cups frozen white sweet corn, thawed and drained
• 1/2 medium red onion, finely diced (about ½ cup)
• 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 2 medium jalapeño peppers, finely diced (about ¼ cup)
• 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt

Instructions

• PREHEAT OVEN: Preheat the oven to 425°F and place the oven rack in the upper position. Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil.
• ROAST POBLANOS: Place 2 poblano peppers on the prepared baking sheet. Roast for 15 to 20 minutes, turning every 5 minutes, until the skins are blistered and charred on all sides.
• STEAM PEPPERS: Transfer the roasted peppers to a bowl and cover tightly with plastic wrap. Let sit for 5 minutes so the skins loosen.
• PEEL AND CHOP: Using your fingers, peel the skins from the peppers. Cut the peppers in half, remove the seeds, and finely chop the flesh.
• COMBINE SALSA: In a medium bowl combine the chopped poblanos, 4 cups frozen white sweet corn, thawed and drained, 1/2 medium red onion, finely diced , 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped, and 2 medium jalapeño peppers, finely diced .
• SEASON: Add 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice, 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice, and 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt. Toss until evenly combined.
• CHILL OR SERVE: Serve immediately or refrigerate for 30 minutes to allow the flavors to blend.

Notes

Make-Ahead: This salsa can be made up to 2 days in advance. Store covered in the refrigerator.

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Freezing: Freezing is not recommended. The vegetables will lose their crisp texture.

Heat Tip: Remove the seeds from the jalapeños for a milder salsa. For more heat, leave some seeds or add an extra jalapeño.

Shortcut: Substitute 1 (4 ounce) can fire roasted diced green chiles for the roasted poblanos to save time.

Nutrition

Serving: 1 | Calories: 49cal | Carbohydrates: 11g | Protein: 2g | Fat: 1g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Sodium: 105mg | Sugar: 4g | Fiber: 1g | Calcium: 5mg | Iron: 1mg

Originally published August 2016, updated and republished April 2026

Disclosure: Posts may contain affiliate links. If you purchase a product through an affiliate link your price will remain the same and The Slow Roasted Italian will automatically receive a small commission. Thank you for supporting us, it helps us keep creating new recipes.

The post Chipotle Corn Salsa Recipe appeared first on The Slow Roasted Italian.

WHY YOU’LL LOVE CHIPOTLE BEEF BARBACOA

• Rich, smoky flavor just like the restaurant version
  
• Slow cooker does most of the work
  
• Makes a large batch for feeding a crowd
  
• Perfect for tacos, burritos, bowls, and nachos
  
• Tastes even better the next day

Barbacoa Recipe

There are a few things I always order at Chipotle. Barbacoa is one of them.

It’s smoky, a little spicy, and deeply savory in that slow-cooked way that just tastes like someone knew exactly what they were doing.

But once you realize how easy it is to make Chipotle beef barbacoa at home (and how much better it can be when you control the ingredients!), it becomes one of those recipes that earns a permanent place in the rotation.

Honestly, it’s turned into a bit of a thing in our house. We have a whole lineup of Chipotle copycat recipes now, and they’re some of the most popular recipes on our site.

I even build entire party menus around them. Two or three main proteins in slow cookers, a bunch of the sides, and suddenly you’ve got a full Chipotle-style spread that feeds a crowd without a lot of stress.

And this barbacoa recipe is always one of the stars.

The secret is the sauce. Chipotle peppers, garlic, cumin, oregano, lime… everything blended together into this bold, smoky mixture that slowly works its way into the beef as it cooks.

Pure magic happens when you shred it and let it simmer in the sauce a little longer. That’s when the flavor really settles in!

INGREDIENT NOTES

• Beef Chuck Roast: The ideal cut for shredding because of its marbling and connective tissue.
  
• Chipotle Peppers in Adobo: Provide smoky heat and signature barbacoa flavor.
  
• Apple Cider Vinegar: Brightens the sauce and balances the richness of the beef.
  
• Cumin & Oregano: Classic Mexican seasoning combination.
  
• Fresh Lime Juice: Adds acidity and keeps the flavor vibrant.

VARIATIONS

Spicier Barbacoa: Add extra chipotle peppers or adobo sauce.

Mild Version: Use only 2 chipotle peppers.

Instant Pot Option: Sear right in the pot (in batches), then cook on High pressure for 60 minutes with a natural pressure release.

Garlic Lovers: Increase the amount of garlic to 8 cloves.

SERVING SUGGESTIONS

• Pile into tacos with cilantro, onion, and lime.
  
• Build burrito bowls with cilantro lime rice and pinto beans.
  
• Make loaded nachos with queso blanco sauce.
  
• Stuff barbacoa chipotle into quesadillas or enchiladas.
  
• Enjoy over cauliflower cilantro lime rice with guacamole.

BARBACOA CHIPOTLE FAQ

Chuck roast works beautifully for barbacoa chipotle because the slow cooking process breaks down connective tissue and turns it into gelatin.

That’s what creates the rich, silky texture and keeps the meat moist while shredding easily.

Blending the sauce before cooking allows the spices and chipotle peppers to distribute evenly throughout the meat.

And letting the shredded beef cook in the sauce during the final hour is what gives it that deep, restaurant-style flavor.

It’s a small step that makes a big difference in this copycat Chipotle barbacoa recipe.

TOOLS NEEDED

• Slow Cooker: A 5- or 6-quart crockpot is perfect for this barbacoa recipe.
  
• Blender or Food Processor: To make the sauce.
  
• Dutch Oven or Skillet: For searing the beef before it’s slow-cooked.
  
• Tongs: Helps with flipping the meat while searing.
  
• Two Forks for Shredding: It doesn’t take much effort!

Enjoy!

With love, from our simple kitchen to yours.

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Other Easy Copycat Recipes

🍔 Copycat Creations Vol 1
Craving your favorite restaurant meals at home? This exclusive ebook has the boldest, most requested copycat recipes — from fast food faves to sit-down classics.

👉 Buy your copy now and start cooking the meals you love!

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Chipotle Barbacoa (Slow Cooker Copycat) + Video

Make this Barbacoa Recipe in the slow cooker for the Mexican barbecue of your dreams. Fall-apart tender, a little spicy, and feeds a crowd!

Course Main

Cuisine Mexican

Method Slow Cooker

Prep Time 15 minutes minutes

Cook Time 6 hours hours

Total Time 6 hours hours 15 minutes minutes

Servings 12

Calories 312cal

Author Donna Elick

Equipment

• slow cooker
• dutch oven
• large tongs

Ingredients

FOR THE BEEF

• 4 pounds chuck roast trimmed of excess fat and cut into 8 chunks
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 2 bay leaves

FOR THE SAUCE

• 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
• 6 cloves garlic
• 4 teaspoons ground cumin
• 1 tablespoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon fresh ground black pepper
• 1/8 teaspoon ground cloves
• 4 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce from 1 can
• 1 tablespoon adobo sauce from the can
• 1 cup chicken stock or 1 cup water plus 1 teaspoon chicken base
• 1/4 cup fresh lime juice
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt

Instructions

• PREP BEEF: Trim visible fat from 4 pounds chuck roast and cut into 8 chunks. Pat the meat dry with paper towels. Sprinkle all sides with 1 teaspoon kosher salt.
• MAKE SAUCE: In a blender or food processor, combine 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar, 6 cloves garlic, 4 teaspoons ground cumin, 1 tablespoon dried oregano, 1 teaspoon fresh ground black pepper, 1/8 teaspoon ground cloves, 4 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, 1 tablespoon adobo sauce, 1 cup chicken stock, and 1/4 cup fresh lime juice. Blend until smooth.
• SEAR BEEF: Heat 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil in a Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add beef chunks and sear on all sides until browned and a crust forms.
• TRANSFER: Place the seared beef into a slow cooker. Pour the blended sauce over the beef and add 2 bay leaves.
• SLOW COOK: Cover and cook on HIGH for 5 to 6 hours or LOW for 8 hours, until the beef is fork-tender.
• SHRED: About 1 hour before serving, shred the beef using two forks. Stir to coat with the sauce.
• SEASON: Taste and add the remaining 1 teaspoon kosher salt if needed.
• FINISH: Cover and cook for the final hour so the shredded beef absorbs the sauce.
• SERVE: Serve hot in tacos, burritos, bowls, or salads.

Video

Notes

No Blender Option: Finely mince the garlic and chipotle peppers, then whisk all sauce ingredients together in a bowl before adding to the slow cooker.

Make-Ahead: This barbacoa tastes even better the next day. Refrigerate overnight for deeper flavor.

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Freezing: Freeze cooled barbacoa with sauce in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.

Serving Ideas: Use in burritos, tacos, nachos, rice bowls, or salads.

Nutrition

Serving: 1 | Calories: 312cal | Carbohydrates: 3g | Protein: 30g | Fat: 20g | Saturated Fat: 8g | Cholesterol: 104mg | Sodium: 775mg | Sugar: 1g | Fiber: 1g | Calcium: 46mg | Iron: 4mg

Originally Published January 2021, updated and republished April 2026

Disclosure: Posts may contain affiliate links. If you purchase a product through an affiliate link your price will remain the same and The Slow Roasted Italian will automatically receive a small commission. Thank you for supporting us, it helps us keep creating new recipes.

The post Barbacoa Recipe + Video appeared first on The Slow Roasted Italian.