We had high hopes last night to use our new grill we ordered after the move. C and E went to pick it up and I had the hamburger patties all ready to go. 40 minutes later they called and said they were still in traffic and hadn't picked it up yet. Normally we never have to drive in ATX rush hour and are completely unaware of what roads to use and not use during this time. Some of you moms may know that a toddler doesn't give a dang if there is rush hour or not, food needs to be on the table NOW. This is when Mama gets creative. The old trusty cast iron skillet came out and I literally made this burger up as I went along.

Recently inspired by our visit to arguably the best local burger joint in Austin, Hopdoddy, I whipped up a sauce and toppings that created complete silence at the dinner table when my 3 kids started eating. The sauce uses fresh salsa, so there is a subtle hint of tex-mex. I just wish we could have had the Hopdoddy Nutella & Chocolate Pretzel milkshake to go with it.

4 Burgers

4 pre-made patties, 1/3 lb. each
1/4 c. mayo
1/4 c. fresh salsa {fresh roma tomatoes, fresh onions, jalapeño peppers, garlic, salt, cilantro, lemon juice} I don't recommend using jarred salsa.
red onion slices
baby greens
4 smoked gouda cheese slices
tomato slices
english cucumber, sliced very thin (optional)
salt and pepper

Heat grill or cast iron skillet (use a little oil if using cast iron) until piping hot. Sprinkle burgers with s + p. Cook burgers 3-5 minutes on each side. Meanwhile mix mayo and fresh salsa in a bowl. Toast buns and lay cheese slices on top of the hot burgers. Assemble burger, veggies and sauce. This burger is saucy and messy, just like my family likes it.