Classic Cajun blackening spices coat these burgers stuffed with blue cheese. Of course you can eliminate the blue cheese or substitute smoked cheddar or Montrachet or another goat cheese.

Serves 6 to 8.

1 tablespoon dried oregano
2 teaspoons cayenne pepper
2 teaspoons black pepper
1 tablespoon garlic powder
1 tablespoon dried thyme
2 teaspoons Hungarian paprika
2 teaspoons kosher salt
2½ pounds ground beef
¾ to 1 pound blue cheese, crumbled or cut into 6 to 8 equal pieces

1. Preheat the broiler.

2. Place the oregano, peppers, garlic powder, thyme, paprika, and salt on a plate and stir to mix.

3. Divide the ground beef into 6 to 8 pieces of equal size. Divide each portion in half and form into patties. Place the blue cheese on half the patties, top with the other halves, and re-form into patties. Seal the edges by pinching them together. Dredge the patties in the spice mixture. (You can cover and freeze the patties for up to 3 months.)

4. Place the patties on a broiler pan or baking sheet, set it about 2½ to 3 inches from the broiler, and broil for about 3 to 5 minutes per side (longer for well-done.)

From Warehouse to Your House: More than 250 Simple, Spectacular Recipes to Cook, Store, and Share When You Buy in Quantity (Simon & Schuster, 2006)