If you’re anything like me, you love having a bag of frozen hamburger patties on hand for those busy weeknights when you need a quick and easy dinner. But sometimes, it can be a challenge to come up with new and interesting ways to use them beyond the usual burgers and fries.
Luckily, there are plenty of creative and delicious recipes out there that make use of frozen hamburger patties, from casseroles and stews to tacos and meatballs. In this article, we’ll explore some of the best ideas for making the most out of your frozen patties, so you can whip up a tasty and satisfying meal in no time.
What To Make With Frozen Hamburger Patties?
If you’re short on time and don’t have fresh ground beef on hand, frozen hamburger patties can be a lifesaver. But what can you make with them besides a traditional burger? In this article, we’ll explore ten delicious and unique ways to use frozen hamburger patties.
1. Meatballs
Meatballs are a versatile and easy-to-make meal that can be served with pasta, in a sandwich, or as an appetizer. To make meatballs with frozen hamburger patties, simply thaw the patties in the fridge overnight, crumble them up, and mix them with breadcrumbs, an egg, and your favorite seasonings. Form the mixture into balls and bake or fry until cooked through.
2. Sloppy Joes
Sloppy Joes are a classic American dish that can be made quickly and easily with frozen hamburger patties. Brown the patties in a skillet, then add diced onion, green pepper, garlic, and tomato sauce. Simmer until the vegetables are soft and the sauce has thickened. Serve on toasted buns with a side of fries.
3. Meatloaf
Meatloaf is a hearty and comforting meal that can be made with frozen hamburger patties. Thaw the patties, crumble them up, and mix them with breadcrumbs, milk, egg, ketchup, and your favorite seasonings. Press the mixture into a loaf pan and bake until cooked through. Serve with mashed potatoes and green beans.
4. Tacos
Tacos are a fun and easy way to use frozen hamburger patties. Thaw the patties, crumble them up, and cook them in a skillet with taco seasoning. Serve the meat in taco shells with shredded cheese, lettuce, tomato, and sour cream.
5. Chili
Chili is a hearty and warming dish that can be made with frozen hamburger patties. Brown the patties in a skillet, then add diced onion, garlic, chili powder, cumin, tomato sauce, and kidney beans. Simmer until the flavors have melded together. Serve with grated cheese and cornbread.
6. Stuffed Peppers
Stuffed peppers are a healthy and delicious meal that can be made with frozen hamburger patties. Thaw the patties, crumble them up, and mix them with cooked rice, diced onion, garlic, and tomato sauce. Stuff the mixture into bell peppers and bake until the peppers are tender.
7. Shepherd’s Pie
Shepherd’s pie is a classic English dish that can be made with frozen hamburger patties. Thaw the patties, crumble them up, and cook them in a skillet with diced onion and garlic. Transfer the meat to a casserole dish and top with mashed potatoes. Bake until the potatoes are golden brown.
8. Meaty Pasta Sauce
Meaty pasta sauce is a simple and delicious way to use frozen hamburger patties. Thaw the patties, crumble them up, and cook them in a skillet with diced onion and garlic. Add tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, and your favorite Italian seasonings. Simmer until the sauce has thickened. Serve over cooked pasta with grated Parmesan cheese.
9. Meaty Pizza Topping
Meaty pizza topping is a tasty and easy way to use frozen hamburger patties. Thaw the patties, crumble them up, and cook them in a skillet with diced onion and garlic. Spread pizza sauce on a pre-made crust, then top with the meat mixture, shredded cheese, and your favorite toppings. Bake until the crust is crispy and the cheese is melted.
10. Hamburger Soup
Hamburger soup is a hearty and comforting meal that can be made with frozen hamburger patties. Brown the patties in a skillet, then add diced onion, garlic, carrots, potatoes, beef broth, and your favorite seasonings. Simmer until the vegetables are tender. Serve with crusty bread.
In conclusion, frozen hamburger patties are a versatile and convenient ingredient that can be used in a variety of delicious and satisfying meals. Whether you’re making meatballs, tacos, or chili, these recipes are sure to please. So the next time you’re in a pinch, don’t hesitate to reach for a bag of frozen hamburger patties.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions and answers about what to make with frozen hamburger patties.
What are some easy recipes to make with frozen hamburger patties?
One easy recipe is to make hamburger patties with melted cheese on top. Simply cook the frozen patties in a pan or on a grill, and then add a slice of cheese on top before the patties are fully cooked. You can also make a classic hamburger with lettuce, tomato, and condiments on a bun. Another option is to make a hearty chili by cooking the frozen patties with onions, garlic, beans, and tomatoes in a slow cooker or on the stove.
If you’re feeling a bit more adventurous, try making meatballs or meatloaf with the frozen patties. Simply crumble the patties and mix them with breadcrumbs, egg, and seasonings before shaping them into balls or a loaf. Bake in the oven and serve with your favorite sides.
How can I add more flavor to frozen hamburger patties?
One simple way to add more flavor is to sprinkle seasoning on the patties before cooking them. You can use a pre-made blend like Cajun or Italian seasoning, or make your own with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and other herbs and spices. Another option is to marinate the patties in a mixture of soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and brown sugar for a few hours before cooking.
You can also add toppings or condiments to the cooked patties to enhance their flavor. Some ideas include sautéed mushrooms and onions, avocado and salsa, or bacon and barbecue sauce. Experiment with different combinations to find your favorite flavor profile.
Can I cook frozen hamburger patties in the oven?
Yes, you can cook frozen hamburger patties in the oven. Preheat the oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit, place the patties on a baking sheet, and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until they reach an internal temperature of 160 degrees Fahrenheit. You can also broil the patties for a few minutes at the end of cooking to add a crispy crust.
Keep in mind that cooking times may vary based on the thickness of the patties and the type of oven you have. Always use a meat thermometer to ensure that the patties are fully cooked before serving.
How long can I keep frozen hamburger patties in the freezer?
Frozen hamburger patties can be kept in the freezer for up to 6 months. To ensure their quality, store them in an airtight container or freezer bag and label them with the date they were frozen. To thaw them, place them in the refrigerator overnight or use the defrost function on your microwave. Do not refreeze thawed patties, as this can affect their texture and taste.
It’s always a good idea to check the packaging for any specific storage instructions or expiration dates. If in doubt, use your best judgment and discard any patties that look or smell off.
Can I make healthy meals with frozen hamburger patties?
Yes, you can make healthy meals with frozen hamburger patties by choosing lean ground beef or turkey and pairing them with nutritious sides. For example, you can serve the patties with a salad or roasted vegetables instead of fries or chips. You can also use lettuce leaves or portobello mushrooms as a bun alternative to reduce carbs and calories.
Another option is to make a stir-fry with the crumbled patties and vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli, and snap peas. Serve over brown rice or quinoa for a complete meal. The key is to balance the protein from the patties with plenty of fiber, vitamins, and minerals from the sides.
In conclusion, frozen hamburger patties are a versatile ingredient that can be used to create a variety of delicious and satisfying meals. With just a little creativity and some basic ingredients, you can transform these frozen patties into mouthwatering dishes that your whole family will love.
Whether you’re looking to make a classic burger, a hearty pasta dish, or a flavorful stir-fry, there are countless ways to use frozen hamburger patties in the kitchen. So next time you’re staring at a bag of frozen patties in your freezer, don’t worry – the possibilities are endless!
In summary, frozen hamburger patties are a convenient and budget-friendly ingredient that can be turned into a wide range of delicious meals. By experimenting with different flavors and cooking methods, you can unleash your creativity in the kitchen and create dishes that are sure to please. So go ahead and give it a try – your taste buds will thank you!
