Dynamite Burger
Rhode Island's Dynamite is a beloved local specialty - a spicy mixture of ground meat, peppers, onions, and tomato sauce. Put it on a burger and you've got Little Rhody's most explosive creation. It's comfort food with a serious kick.
Equipment Needed
Instructions
Start the Dynamite: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef or pork, breaking it up with a spatula, until browned and crumbly, about 8 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.
Add the vegetables: Add the diced onions and bell peppers to the skillet. Cook for 5-7 minutes until softened. Add the minced hot cherry peppers and garlic powder, stirring to combine.
Add the sauce: Pour in the tomato sauce and add the red pepper flakes. Stir well and reduce heat to medium-low. Simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened. Season with salt and pepper.
Form the patties: While the Dynamite simmers, divide the burger beef into 4 portions. Form into patties about 3/4 inch thick. Season both sides with salt and pepper.
Heat a separate skillet: Heat another skillet or griddle over high heat until smoking. Add a drizzle of oil.
Cook the patties: Cook the burger patties for 3-4 minutes per side for medium. Add cheese during the last minute and cover to melt.
Toast the buns: Split and toast the bulkie rolls or buns on the griddle until golden. Rhode Islanders often use soft bulkie rolls that can absorb the Dynamite's sauce.
Assemble the burgers: Place each cheese-topped patty on a bottom bun. Ladle a generous serving of the hot Dynamite mixture over the patty - don't be stingy!
Serve: Close with the top bun and serve immediately. Have extra napkins ready - the Dynamite is saucy! Pair with coffee milk for the full Rhode Island experience.
💡 Pro Tips & Variations
- Heat level: Adjust the cherry peppers and red pepper flakes to your spice tolerance. Traditional Dynamite has a good kick but shouldn't be overwhelming.
- Make ahead: Dynamite actually tastes better the next day as the flavors meld. Make a batch ahead and reheat.
- Italian influence: Rhode Island's Dynamite shows the state's strong Italian-American heritage. Some families add Italian sausage.
- Stuffed pepper style: For a twist, hollow out a bell pepper and stuff it with Dynamite, then serve alongside the burger.
- Traditional serving: In Rhode Island, Dynamite is often served on a bulkie roll by itself - this burger version doubles down on the meat.
- Extra toppings: Some add a fried egg on top for a breakfast Dynamite burger variation.