Spaghetti Burgers

Directions

1. 1
   Make the fries: Brush a baking sheet with vegetable oil.
2. 2
   Heat 2 to 3 inches vegetable oil in a Dutch oven until a deep-fry thermometer registers 365 degrees F. Meanwhile, bring a medium pot of salted water to a boil.
3. 3
   Add the pasta to the boiling water and cook as the package directs, then drain.
4. 4
   Spread in an even layer on the prepared baking sheet and let cool.
5. 5
   Cut the cooked spaghetti into short pieces and fry in batches, turning once, until golden, 30 seconds to 1 minute.
6. 6
   Drain on paper towels and sprinkle with the parmesan and salt.
7. 7
   Make the burgers: Preheat the broiler.
8. 8
   Pulse the onion, 4 garlic cloves, 1/2 cup basil and the parsley in a food processor until finely chopped.
9. 9
   Transfer to a bowl and add the ground beef, 1/2 cup each parmesan and tomato sauce, the oregano, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and pepper to taste.
10. 10
    Mix with your hands until combined and form into four 1-inch-thick patties.
11. 11
    Transfer to a rimmed baking sheet.
12. 12
    Broil the patties, turning once, until browned and just cooked through, 6 to 8 minutes.
13. 13
    Top each patty with a slice of mozzarella and 2 tablespoons of the remaining tomato sauce.
14. 14
    Return to the broiler until the cheese melts, about 30 seconds.
15. 15
    Place the buns split-side up on another baking sheet and toast under the broiler until just golden, 1 to 2 minutes.
16. 16
    Brush the toasted sides lightly with the olive oil, rub with the remaining garlic clove and sprinkle with the remaining 1/4 cup parmesan.
17. 17
    Return to the broiler until the cheese melts, about 30 seconds.
18. 18
    Place each patty on a bun bottom and top with some sliced basil and a bun top.
19. 19
    Serve with the spaghetti fries and warm tomato sauce for dipping.
20. 20
    Photograph by Charles Masters