Mini-Burger & Waffle Fry Bites

This is what you would consider to be a super-cool, kid-friendly appetizer or snack for a weekend movie night or game day extravaganza.

The caramelized onions and creamy sauce make these yummy bites a huge hit at parties. People say they’re even better than the mini burger appetizers that are so popular at restaurants. Maribeth Condo, Lindenhurst, Illinois

Ingredients

• 16 frozen waffle-cut fries
• 2 medium onions, cut into 1/8-inch slices
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon Imperial Sugar / Dixie Crystals Granulated Sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/8 teaspoon pepper
• 1 pound ground beef
• 2 teaspoons steak seasoning
• 3 egg yolks
• 4-1/2 teaspoons lemon juice
• 1-1/2 teaspoons water
• 1/2 cup butter, melted
• 4 slices cheddar cheese, quartered

Directions

• Bake waffle fries according to package directions. In a large skillet, cook onions in butter and oil over medium heat for 10 minutes. Add the sugar, salt and pepper; cook 3-5 minutes longer or until onions are golden brown, stirring frequently.
• Meanwhile, in a large bowl, combine beef and steak seasoning. Shape into 16 patties. Cook in a large skillet until a meat thermometer reads 160 and juices run clear, turning once.
• For sauce, in a double boiler or metal bowl over simmering water, constantly whisk the egg yolks, lemon juice and water until mixture reaches 160 or is thick enough to coat the back of a metal spoon. Reduce heat to low. Slowly drizzle in warm melted butter, whisking constantly.
• Top each waffle fry with a burger and cheese. Broil 4-5 in. from the heat for 1-2 minutes or until cheese is melted. Top with onions and sauce. Yield: 16 appetizers.

Originally published as Mini-Burger Potato Bites in Taste of Home’s Holiday & Celebrations Cookbook Annual 2009, p219