Spicy Gourmet Hamburger with Zesty Sauce

1.In a large bowl, combine the ground beef (1 lb), smoked paprika (1 tsp), cayenne pepper (1 tsp), garlic powder (1 tsp), onion powder (1 tsp), black pepper (½ tsp), and salt (½ tsp). Mix until well combined, being careful not to overwork the meat.

2.Divide the mixture into four equal portions and shape them into patties, making a slight indentation in the center of each patty to prevent puffing during cooking.

3.Preheat a grill or skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the patties for about 4-5 minutes on one side, then flip them and place a slice of pepper jack cheese on top of each patty. Cook for an additional 4-5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the burgers are cooked to your desired doneness.

4.While the burgers are cooking, prepare the zesty sauce by mixing the mayonnaise (¼ cup), sriracha sauce (1 tbsp), and Dijon mustard (1 tbsp) in a small bowl. Adjust the amount of sriracha to taste for desired spiciness.

5.Toast the hamburger buns (4) on the grill or in a toaster until golden brown.

6.Assemble the burgers by spreading a generous amount of the zesty sauce on the bottom half of each bun. Add the cooked burger patty with melted cheese, followed by shredded lettuce (1 cup), tomato (1) slices, and red onion (½) slices. Top with the other half of the bun.

7.Serve immediately with your favorite sides.