Mozz-Stuffed Caprese Burgers with Griddled Tomato, Basil Sauce & Parmesan Potato Rounds

Step 1

• Adjust racks to top and middle positions and preheat oven to 450 degrees. Wash and dry all produce. • Slice potatoes into ¼-inch-thick rounds (no need to peel); toss on a baking sheet with 2 TBSP olive oil, half the Italian Seasoning (you’ll use the rest later), and a few big pinches of salt and pepper. Arrange in a single overlapping layer. • Roast on top rack for 18-20 minutes. Remove from oven (they’ll finish cooking in step 6). • 4 SERVINGS: Use 4 TBSP olive oil.

Step 2

• Meanwhile, slice tomato into ½-inchthick rounds. Pick basil leaves from stems; mince leaves. • Place 1 TBSP butter and half the garlic powder (use the rest as you like) in a small bowl; microwave until butter is softened, 10-20 seconds. Season with salt and pepper and stir to combine. • 4 SERVINGS: Use 2 TBSP butter and all the garlic powder.

Step 3

• In a second small bowl, combine mayonnaise, sour cream, and 1 TBSP minced basil. Season with salt and pepper. Set aside. • 4 SERVINGS: Use 2 TBSP minced basil.

Step 4

• In a medium bowl, combine beef*, remaining Italian Seasoning, and remaining basil; season generously with salt and pepper. Form mixture into two ½-inch-thick patties. • Divide mozzarella between the centers of each patty. Gently fold meat around mozzarella, shaping and sealing to create cheese-stuffed patties. • 4 SERVINGS: Form beef mixture into four patties.

Step 5

• Season tomato with salt and pepper. Heat a drizzle of olive oil in a large, preferably nonstick, pan over mediumhigh heat. Add tomato and cook until lightly browned, 1-2 minutes per side. Transfer to a plate. • Add another drizzle of olive oil to same pan; add patties and cook to desired doneness, 3-5 minutes per side.

Step 6

• Sprinkle roasted potatoes with Parmesan. Return to oven until cheese is melted and slightly crispy, 5-7 minutes more. • Meanwhile, halve buns; spread cut sides with garlic butter. Place on a second baking sheet and toast on middle rack until lightly browned, 3-5 minutes. • Spread top buns with basil sauce; fill buns with patties and griddled tomato. Serve with potatoes and any remaining basil sauce on the side.