Balkan-Style Pljeskavica
A Balkan grilled patty made from mixed ground beef and pork, seasoned simply and cooked until the edges char. Serve on a soft roll with onions, ajvar, and sour cream for an authentic taste of Serbia.
- Total time
- 20 min
- Servings
- 2
- Calories
- 485
- Protein
- 42g

Ingredients
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Open the appInstructions
Step 1
Combine the ground beef, ground pork, minced onion, salt, and pepper in a large bowl.
Step 2
Use your hands to mix gently until the meat is just combined—do not overwork it, or the patties will be tough.
Step 3
Divide the mixture in half and shape each half into a thick, flat patty about 5 inches wide and 1 inch thick.
Step 4
Heat the olive oil in a 12-inch cast iron skillet over medium-high heat until it shimmers and slides quickly when you tilt the pan, about 90 seconds.
Step 5
Place both patties in the hot skillet and cook without moving them for 5 minutes, until the bottom is deeply browned and crispy.
Step 6
Flip the patties carefully with a metal spatula and cook the second side for 4 minutes, until the inside reaches 160°F when checked with a meat thermometer in the thickest part.
Step 7
Transfer the patties to a plate and rest for 2 minutes before serving.
Tools you’ll need
- large mixing bowl
- 12-inch cast iron skillet
- metal spatula
- meat thermometer
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