Virginia

Ham Burger

A tribute to Virginia's legendary country ham tradition. Salty, aged Virginia country ham meets a juicy beef patty, finished with sweet apple butter and sharp cheddar. Southern sophistication in every bite.

⏱ Total 25min 🍴 Serves 4 🍏 Sweet & Salty ⭐ Southern Heritage

Equipment Needed

🍲 Cast Iron Skillet
🥄 Spatula
🥩 Meat Thermometer
🔪 Sharp Knife
🥣 Mixing Bowl

Instructions

1

Make the apple butter sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together apple butter, whole grain mustard, and apple cider vinegar until smooth. Set aside.

Tip: Virginia apple butter is ideal - it's less sweet and more deeply spiced than commercial varieties.
2

Prepare the ham: If using very salty country ham, soak slices in water for 30 minutes to reduce saltiness. Pat dry thoroughly with paper towels.

3

Form the patties: Divide ground beef into 4 equal portions. Gently form into patties about 3/4-inch thick and slightly larger than your buns. Make a small indent in the center.

4

Season the patties: Season both sides with salt (go light - the ham is salty) and pepper. Let rest at room temperature for 10 minutes.

5

Cook the ham: Melt butter in a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Add ham slices and cook 1-2 minutes per side until edges are crispy and caramelized. Remove and keep warm.

6

Cook the patties: In the same skillet (with ham drippings), cook patties over high heat for 3-4 minutes per side for medium. Add cheese in the last minute, covering to melt.

Tip: The ham drippings add incredible flavor to the burger - don't wipe out that skillet!
7

Toast the buns: Butter the cut sides of buns and toast in the skillet until golden brown, about 1-2 minutes.

8

Assemble: Spread apple butter sauce on both bun halves. Layer bottom bun with arugula, the cheese-topped patty, crispy country ham, and more sauce. Top with bun.

9

Serve: Serve immediately with a side of Virginia peanuts or sweet potato fries. The combination of salty ham and sweet apple butter is unforgettable.

💡 Pro Tips & Variations

  • Source authentic Virginia ham: Look for Smithfield, Edwards, or Surry ham brands. True Virginia country ham is dry-cured and aged.
  • Balance the salt: Country ham is intensely salty. The sweet apple butter provides crucial balance - don't skip it.
  • Biscuit variation: Serve on a split buttermilk biscuit instead of a bun for an extra Southern touch.
  • Add a fried egg: A runny fried egg takes this over the top - very Virginia brunch style.
  • Honey alternative: If you can't find apple butter, mix honey with a touch of Dijon for a similar sweet-savory effect.
  • Red-eye gravy: For the adventurous, drizzle red-eye gravy (ham drippings with coffee) on top.
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