Chef Emeril Lagasse is known for his culinary expertise, having designed menus for 10 different restaurants that cater to a variety of tastes. While his French-inspired dishes at Emeril’s Brasserie and seafood specialties at Emeril’s Coastal are well-loved, there is one common thread that runs through most of his restaurant concepts: burgers.
Despite the diverse range of dishes served at his establishments, Lagasse has a special affinity for burgers. Whether it’s a classic burger topped with onion and special sauce or a gourmet option with brie and fire-roasted shallots, Lagasse knows how to create a burger that stands out.
One of Lagasse’s secrets to crafting the best burgers lies in the quality of the meat. He starts with “really good ground meat,” preferably a 90/10 blend. Lagasse then seasons the meat with fresh pepper, salt, and his own Essence Creole Seasoning, a blend of spices that includes paprika, garlic powder, black pepper, and more.
But what sets Lagasse’s burgers apart is his use of celery salt. Just before flipping the burgers, he generously seasons them with celery salt, adding a unique zippy, salty, and earthy flavor to the patties. Lagasse considers celery salt one of his secret weapons when it comes to enhancing the taste of his dishes.
In a video showcasing his smash burger recipe, Lagasse smashes the patties and adds seasoned sliced onions to the skillet with the cooking meat. After flipping the patties one last time, he tops them with a knob of butter, homemade Worcestershire sauce, and Cheddar cheese. The burgers are then served on a brioche bun with caramelized onions and extra Worcestershire sauce.
After trying Lagasse’s smash burger, the only reaction is pure satisfaction. With a burst of flavor from the celery salt and the richness of the Cheddar cheese, Lagasse’s burgers are a true delight for the taste buds. Whether you’re a fan of classic burgers or gourmet creations, Lagasse’s secret ingredient is sure to elevate your burger game to the next level.
