Santa Fe Burger

Name: Santa Fe Burger
Yield: serves 4
Ingredients: 1 large poblano chile; 2 1/2 tablespoons canola oil; Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper; 1 1/2 pounds ground chuck (80 percent lean) or ground turkey (90 percent lean); 4 hamburger buns, split; toasted (see page 15), if desired; 12 blue or yellow corn tortilla chips; 1 tablespoon unsalted butter; 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour; 1 1/2 cups whole milk; 8 ounces Monterey Jack cheese, coarsely grated (about 2 cups); Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper

December 9, 2011

This is one seriously delicious cheeseburger inspired by the flavors of the Southwest, personal favorites of mine. A luscious, gooey queso sauce made with Monterey Jack cheese takes the place of sliced cheese and makes a secure bed for roasted and diced poblano chiles. Blue corn tortilla chips give the burger an unexpectedly perfect touch of salty crunch. The queso sauce would also be wonderful as a dip for chips or fries.

Recipe notes

Rosemary and Dried Cherry Pork Chops

Rehydrating dried cherries in hot water turns them plump and juicy—exactly what you want scattered throughout a rosemary-scented pan sauce for pork chops.

Brussels Sprout Pasta

This brussels sprout pasta recipe taps nutty brown butter, crunchy pecans, and hot Italian sausage to create an easy dinner bursting with fall flavors.

Béchamel Sauce

This classic 15-minute sauce is your secret weapon for homemade mac and cheese, chowder, lasagna, and more.

Butternut Squash–Kale Salad With Roasted Garlic Vinaigrette

Round out these autumn greens with tart pomegranate seeds, crunchy pepitas, and a shower of Parmesan.

Our Favorite French Onion Soup

Caramelized onions, melty Gruyère, and a deeply savory broth deliver the kind of comfort that doesn’t need improving.

Frijoles Peruanos (Peruvian Refried Beans)

Mayocobas, or canary beans, are the quick-cooking pantry ingredient you should know about.

White Bean Turkey Chili

A dash of cocoa powder adds depth and richness to the broth of this easy turkey chili.

French Silk Pie

A no-bake Oreo crust, a rich chocolate filling, and a tower of whipped cream come together in this shut-the-room-up dessert.