Surf n Turf Burger
Lobster and beef, the surf n turf of this recipe, create an unexpected union that combines the best of land and sea. This surf n turf burger brings together the sweet and salty meat of lobster that enhances the savory buttery beef that will up your burger game to new heights. By taking fresh live lobsters, grilling them, and removing the meat from the shell you get incredible tasting lobster. Then prepare a paprika seasoned beef patty on the grill, and then stack the lobster meat on the burger between brioche buns coated with mayo and a tomato. The result is an exciting burger perfect for a meal outside, or with a group of friends on the weekend.
Living on the east coast provides access to “fresh” lobster, which are lobster with a slightly softer shell. These lobster become available in late summer and early fall and tend to be at a much lower price per pound, making this elegant burger combination affordable. Pair the surf n turf burger with a grilled vegetable side, such as grilled shishitos, and you have a delicious and smoke infused summer meal.
Surf n Turf Burger
Ingredients
Lobster and Burger
- 1 1 1/4 lb lobster
- 1 lb ground beef
- 4 sprigs thyme, leaves removed
- zest of 1 lemon
- olive oil
- salt, to season
- black pepper, to season
- paprika, to season
For burger
- mayo, to cover buns
- 1 tomato, sliced
- 3 brioche buns
Instructions
- Heat grill on high until hot
Prepare the lobster
- Take live lobster and cut down the middle of the head (this is actually the most humane way to kill a lobster). Here is a how to video.
- Continue splitting the lobster in half.
- Clean the lobster to remove guts and other unwanted parts.
- Take the lobster cut side up and coat with a little olive oil.
- Place on grill cut side up and grill for 10 minutes until the meat firms up and the shell turns red.
- Remove and let cool for 5 minutes.
- Crack open the shell and remove the meat. Set aside for the burger.
Prepare burger
- Mix in some thyme leaves and pack ground beef into 3 patties.
- Season with salt, black pepper, and paprika.
- Coat with a little olive oil and place on the grill.
- Grill for 3 min on one side, flip, and grill for 5-8 min on the other side.
- While the burger cooks, place the brioche buns on grill for 1 minute to toast
Build the burger
- Take brioche buns and coat with mayo
- Place a tomato slice on top of bottom bun
- Add burger patty, then lobster meat
- Sprinkle lemon zest and remaining thyme leaves over lobster meat, then top with brioche top.