Ramen Burgers

INGREDIENTS

• 2 packages ramen, seasoning packets discarded
• 2 eggs, lightly beaten
• kosher salt
• Freshly ground black pepper
• 1 lb. ground beef
• 1 jalapeño, finely chopped
• 1 green onion, thinly sliced
• 1/2 onion, chopped
• 1/2 tsp. garlic powder
• 4 Monterey Jack slices
• Lettuce, for serving
• tomato, sliced
• Vegetable oil, for pan
• Sriracha, for drizzling (optional)

DIRECTIONS

1. Make ramen "buns": In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook ramen according to package instructions. Drain and rinse noodles with cold water.
2. In a large bowl, toss noodles with eggs until evenly coated. Season with salt and pepper.
3. In a large nonstick pan over medium heat, pour enough vegetable to thinly coat the bottom of the pan. Place the rings of 4 mason jar lids in the pan. Using tongs, fill each ring with the noodle mixture. Press down on each to make the noodles more compact. Cook until golden on both sides, about 4 minutes per side. Repeat then wipe pan clean.
4. Make burgers: In a large bowl, combine ground beef, jalapeño, onion, green onion and garlic powder. Mix until just combined. Form the mixture into 4 patties then season both sides each patty generously with salt and pepper.
5. Return pan to medium-high heat and pour a thin layer of oil to coat the bottom of the pan. When the oil is hot, add the beef patties. Cook until the meat is cooked to your liking, about 4 minutes per side for medium. For the last minute of cooking, top each patty with a slice of cheese. Cover the pan with a tight-fitting lid and cook until the cheese is melted, about 1 minute.
6. Assemble burgers. Top 4 of the ramen buns with lettuce, tomatoes and the burger patties. Drizzle with sriracha, if desired, then top with remaining ramen buns.