There’s nothing quite like the thrill of crafting your own burger, with endless possibilities for creative combinations. Whether you’re a seasoned burger enthusiast or just looking to mix things up, this article is dedicated to exploring 31 fun and unique topping ideas to take your culinary experience to the next level.
The beauty of burgers lies in their versatility – standard patties can be elevated by a wide range of toppings, from classic condiments to bold international flavors. In recent years, there’s been a surge in creative burger combinations that cater to adventurous eaters and foodies alike.
Homemade Pickles
There’s no denying that adding pickles to a burger is a timeless classic. But why not take it to the next level by creating your very own homemade pickle recipe? The process begins with allowing sliced cucumbers to sit in salt for 30-40 minutes, after which they’re drained and patted dry. Next, combine the cucumbers with fresh dill and garlic in a jar. Meanwhile, heat a mixture of vinegar, water, sugar, and spices until the sugar is fully dissolved. Once the liquid has reached the desired temperature, pour it over the cucumber mixture in the jar. The end result is a tangy and flavorful pickle that will elevate your cheeseburger game like never before.
Caramelized Onions
Transforming your burgers with sweet, caramelized onions is a surefire way to elevate their flavor profile. To achieve this culinary delight, start by melting butter in a pan over low heat, then add chopped onions and let them simmer for 20-25 minutes. As the onions soften, be prepared to add a splash of water if necessary to prevent burning. Once they’ve reached the perfect level of tenderness, top your burger with a generous helping of these luscious caramelized onions and savor the delectable combination.
Bacon
The harmonious union between burgers and bacon is a rare find indeed, but there’s no surprise why this combination works so well. When you add the smoky, crispy goodness of high-quality smoked bacon to your burger, it elevates the entire meal to new heights. To achieve this perfect pairing, simply fry the bacon rashers in oil for 3-4 minutes on each side until they’re almost crisp. Then, layer them atop a cheeseburger and indulge in a rich, heavenly treat that will leave you wanting more.
Cheese
When it comes to customizing burgers at home, there’s no disputing the supremacy of cheese as the go-to topping. The classic cheeseburger is a timeless favorite that never goes out of style. But why settle for just one type of cheese when you can experiment with a variety? For instance, American cheese remains a popular choice, while Monterey Jack and cheddar are also great options to consider. Simply place your desired number of slices on top of the burger, let it melt to perfection, and indulge in the gooey goodness.
Lettuce
A crucial component of a satisfying burger experience is often overlooked – the humble lettuce leaf. Its fresh crunch can elevate the richness of a meaty patty, adding depth and refreshment with each bite. For me, nothing beats the combination of mini iceberg lettuce and burger, where the crispness provides a perfect contrast to the dense beef. Interestingly, some innovative eaters have discovered that bypassing the traditional bun altogether is not only trendy but also a healthier option. Dubbed ‘protein-style,’ this approach involves using large lettuce leaves as a low-carb substitute, allowing you to indulge in your burger cravings without compromising on flavor or nutrition.
Condiments
While condiment options are subjective, a homemade burger sauce is a game-changer for elevating the flavor of your patty. This particular recipe combines the tanginess of mayo, sweetness of ketchup, and savory notes from pickle juice, mustard, onion powder, sugar, and salt to create a truly exceptional accompaniment to your burger. For those who prefer a more understated approach, sticking with tried-and-true combinations like classic mayo, mustard, and ketchup can still yield a deliciously satisfying meal. Ultimately, the key is finding a condiment setup that harmonizes with your personal taste preferences.
Jalapeño Chili
Take your burger game to the next level by incorporating a spicy kick from jalapeños. The heat these peppers bring helps cut through rich meats and cheeses, adding a much-needed tanginess to an otherwise classic cheeseburger. In this recipe, melted Monterey Jack or cheddar cheese provides a creamy contrast to the warmth of the jalapeños, elevating your burger experience.
Tomato
While some may debate the inclusion of tomatoes on a burger, I firmly believe they elevate the dish to new heights. In fact, I’d argue that adding a slice or two can have a profound impact on the overall flavor and presentation. Not only do tomatoes bring a burst of color to an otherwise monochromatic patty, but their natural sweetness also helps balance out the savory richness of the meat. For me, a burger simply isn’t complete without this juicy, flavorful addition.
Coleslaw
The quintessential BBQ experience is incomplete without a fresh, creamy bowl of homemade coleslaw, perfectly topping off that juicy burger. While store-bought options are available, this straightforward recipe takes coleslaw to new heights. To prepare, finely slice the cabbage and place it in a bowl, then add grated carrot in coarse chunks. In a separate container, combine mayonnaise, yogurt, and mustard, adjusting the seasoning to taste before stirring it into the cabbage mixture. With the dressing fully incorporated, construct your burger, top it with the coleslaw, and indulge in the delightful flavors.
Fried Egg
Transform your ordinary burger into an extraordinary culinary experience by incorporating the humble fried egg. This game-changing addition not only elevates the dish’s flavor profile but also adds a satisfying textural element.To achieve this mouthwatering combination, begin by heating a small amount of olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, gently place an egg into the pan and cook until the whites have set while the yolk remains delightfully runny.The resulting yolk will ooze out, infusing the burger with its rich, buttery flavor and creating a delightful harmony of tastes and textures. The source for this culinary revelation? Heckfood, where innovative food enthusiasts come to discover new ways to elevate everyday dishes.
Mac And Cheese
There’s nothing quite like the nostalgic comfort of mac and cheese, but when it’s transformed into a topping for a juicy burger, it becomes truly transcendent. The key to this indulgent twist is in the preparation of the creamy sauce that coats each bite. To begin, boil some macaroni in salted water until al dente. Meanwhile, create the roux by melting butter in a pan and whisking in equal parts flour and pepper until smooth. Slowly pour in milk while constantly whisking to prevent lumps from forming. Add a pinch of paprika for an added depth of flavor. Next, stir in a generous amount of cheddar cheese, ensuring it’s well coated before combining the cooked pasta with the white sauce. Transfer this mixture to a baking dish and top with additional cheese before placing under the broiler until golden brown. Finally, assemble your burgers by loading each patty with the rich mac and cheese, making for an unforgettable combination.
Avocado
When it comes to burgers, avocados are a game-changer – not only do they bring a rich, creamy texture, but they’re also an excellent nutritional boost. Rich in healthy fats, avocados are a vital component of a balanced diet.
Not only will adding avocado make your burger more filling, but it’s also a simple way to increase the nutritional value of this classic dish. To incorporate avocado into your burgers, simply halve and remove the pit from an ripe avocado, then peel each half.
To give your avocado a burst of freshness, squeeze a sliver of lemon or lime juice over each half before adding it to your burger. This addition is sure to elevate the flavor and nutritional profile of your burger, making it a delicious and satisfying meal option.
Mushrooms
When it comes to burger toppings, few options are as versatile or flavorful as mushrooms. To bring out their natural sweetness, simply add them to your patty and let them release their moisture through a quick dry-sautéing process, which should take around 2-3 minutes.
Once the mushrooms have given up their liquid, introduce some sautéed onions infused with olive oil and a pinch of salt. Cook everything over high heat for about 1 minute to allow the onions to soften and develop a rich brown color. Once you’re satisfied with the result, remove the skillet from the heat and transfer the mushroom mixture to a bowl, ready to be added to your burger.
Pineapple
Taking the divisive world of pineapple on pizza as a starting point, we can explore a bold and innovative combination that elevates the humble burger. The key is to add some sweet and salty harmony by incorporating grilled pineapple into your patty’s accompaniments. Simply grill the pineapple alongside your beef patties until it achieves a deep charred flavor. Then, assemble your burger with the juicy pineapple as the crowning glory.
Onion Rings
Indulging in a burger topped with homemade onion rings is the epitome of indulgence. To achieve this culinary delight, start by combining flour with cayenne pepper and seasoning generously with salt and pepper. In a separate shallow bowl, whisk together buttermilk, salt, and pepper to create a tangy base for your onion rings. Next, dredge sliced onions in the seasoned flour mixture, followed by a dip in the buttermilk concoction, allowing any excess liquid to drain off before coating again in flour. Fry the onion rings until they reach a golden brown crispiness, then drain on paper towels and sprinkle with salt to enhance their flavor. Finally, place these crispy, savory treats atop your burger for an unbeatable combination.
Kimchi
Kimchi’s bold flavors, derived from a harmonious blend of garlic, ginger, and chilies, make it an unexpected yet brilliant topping for burgers. The fermented Korean cabbage adds a tangy kick, much like pickles, which cuts through the richness of the meat. For those seeking an Asian-inspired burger with a pungent twist, a generous serving of kimchi is sure to deliver.
Cheese Curds
For those who crave an over-the-top burger topping, cheese curds are an excellent indulgence. When done right, they add a delightful textural contrast to the meal. To prepare this decadent topping, start by heating oil in a pan. Next, whisk together buttermilk, flour, baking soda, garlic, salt, and egg until you achieve a smooth consistency. Use this batter to coat 8-10 cheese curds before adding them to the hot oil to cook. This indulgent recipe features juicy lean beef burgers, crisp iceberg lettuce, and is topped with the aforementioned cheese curds, crispy ham, and ketchup. While it may not be the healthiest option, it’s a treat that’s worth enjoying every now and then. For this recipe, look no further than tasteofhome for inspiration.
Crab & Cocktail Sauce
Transform the classic burger experience by incorporating the ocean’s bounty into your patty’s topping. A generous helping of chunky crabmeat adds a luxurious texture and bursts of flavor that will leave you craving another bite. To elevate this seafood-inspired twist, pair the crab with a tangy cocktail sauce and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for a harmonious balance of flavors. The result is a culinary delight that’s sure to please even the most discerning palates.
Maple Syrup And Bacon Burger
For those with a sweet tooth, why not combine two indulgent favorites into one mouthwatering masterpiece? A maple syrup and bacon burger is sure to delight. When it comes to this recipe, streaky bacon is the way to go. To prepare, lay your bacon strips on a baking sheet and brush them generously with pure Canadian maple syrup. Then, pop them in the oven for 5-8 minutes longer than usual, or until they’re perfectly crisp. Once cooked, top your burger with the sweet and savory maple bacon, and feel free to add an extra drizzle of syrup for good measure.
Pesto
Pesto often flies under the radar when it comes to burger toppings, but it has the power to elevate any patty. To create this tasty addition, start by blending together garlic, pine nuts, herbs, salt, and pepper in a small food processor until well combined. Next, add Parmesan cheese and process until smooth. If you prefer a milder flavor, simply mix in some yogurt to tone down the boldness of the pesto. As is or with a dollop of yogurt, this pesto topping brings a fresh and exciting twist to your classic burger.
Pastrami
Indulge in the savory goodness of a burger elevated by the rich flavors of pastrami. This recipe is a masterclass in blending bold ingredients, and the result is nothing short of sublime. The smoky, spicy, and peppery notes of pastrami perfectly complement beef patties, creating a harmonious balance that will leave you craving more. To take it to the next level, top your burger with crisp shredded lettuce, juicy tomato, tangy gherkins, creamy mustard, and of course, generous slices of pastrami. Trust this tried-and-true formula to revolutionize your burger game, and get ready for a flavor adventure that will leave you feeling like you’re in the heart of New York City!
22. Jalapeño Cream Cheese Burger
Indulge in the bold flavor of jalapeño-infused burgers by topping them with a creamy concoction that combines the spiciness of peppers with the richness of cream cheese. This unique recipe is perfect for those looking to swap traditional cheese slices for something more exciting. To create this delectable mixture, simply blend together cream cheese, diced jalapeños, minced onion, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper. As you add it to your burger, the spicy kick will leave you craving another bite.
Hummus
Why not shake things up at your next barbecue by adding a unique twist to the classic burger? Hummus, typically enjoyed as a dip or spread, can also elevate your patty game. To create this creamy condiment, simply combine chickpeas and minced garlic in a food processor’s bowl and blend until a smooth, powdery consistency is achieved. As you mix, add ice cubes, tahini, salt, and lemon juice to give it a tangy kick. The result is a rich, velvety topping that pairs surprisingly well with melted cheese, caramelized onions, spicy rocket leaves, and – of course – the star of the show: a juicy burger patty. It’s an unconventional yet mouth-watering combination that’s sure to satisfy even the most adventurous eaters.
Caprese Burger
Elevate your social gatherings by presenting an innovative twist on the classic Italian caprese salad. This delectable creation is sure to wow your friends and family alike.
To craft this masterpiece, begin by blending together basil, almonds, and garlic in a food processor. Next, gradually add the 1/2 cup of olive oil and process until it reaches a smooth paste consistency. Finally, incorporate the grated Pecorino cheese and pulse to ensure everything is well combined.
Once your pesto is prepared, take your burgers and top them with slices of melted mozzarella cheese. Allow the cheese to melt slightly before adding juicy tomato slices and a generous dollop of that delectable pesto. The result is an unparalleled culinary experience that will leave everyone craving for more.
Buffalo Blue Cheese
While some may view blue cheese as a polarizing ingredient, buffalo blue cheese can elevate a humble burger to new culinary heights. The pungent flavor of blue cheese is often an acquired taste, but when paired with the warm, spicy kick of buffalo sauce, it’s a match made in heaven.
To take your burger game to the next level, top it with a generous slice of blue cheese and half of those sweet, caramelized onions. Finish it off with a drizzle of hot sauce that adds a tangy, creamy dimension to each bite. It’s a flavor combination that will leave you craving more.
Goat Cheese & Honey
Indulge in a truly decadent burger experience by combining the savory flavors of a juicy patty with the sweet and tangy duo of goat cheese and honey. The harmonious blend of these ingredients creates a melt-in-the-mouth texture and taste that’s simply irresistible.
To create this indulgent masterpiece, start by building your burger with your favorite toppings. Then, add some smoky bacon for a depth of flavor. Next, crumble some creamy goat cheese on top before finishing it off with a drizzle of warm honey. The result is a match made in heaven that’s sure to satisfy even the most discerning palate.
Fried Green Tomatoes
When it comes to elevating your burger game, there’s no better way to do so than by adding a crispy fried twist to your green tomatoes. To achieve this culinary masterpiece, start by preparing two shallow bowls for the flour and panko mixtures. Season each with salt and pepper to give them an extra boost of flavor.
Next, whisk together the buttermilk and egg in a separate bowl and season it as well. This creamy mixture will serve as the binding agent that holds your tomato slices together.
Heat up a large non-stick skillet over moderate heat and add enough oil to create a thin layer. To prepare each tomato slice, start by dredging it in flour, followed by a dip in the buttermilk-egg mixture, and finally coat it with panko breadcrumbs.
Place the coated tomatoes in the hot skillet and fry them until they’re golden brown and crispy. Once cooked to perfection, top your burgers off with these delicious green tomato slices and enjoy the added texture and flavor they bring.
Southwestern Style
With every bite of these Southwestern style burgers, you’ll experience a harmonious balance of spicy kick, satisfying heft, and freshness from the array of vegetables. The secret to their bold flavor lies in the blend of seasonings, which includes the pungency of chopped green chili peppers, the earthy undertones of cumin, the smoky heat of chili powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper for good measure. To elevate these flavorful patties, simply top them with melted Monterey Jack cheese, creamy avocado slices, juicy tomato, tangy mayonnaise, and a dollop of spicy mustard.
Pulled Pork
Transform the classic burger into a decadent delight by topping it with tender pulled pork smothered in BBQ sauce. The sweet and tangy flavor of the coleslaw perfectly complements the rich, smoky taste of the pork, making for a truly mouthwatering combination. To assemble this indulgent treat, simply place a juicy burger patty on each bun, followed by a quarter cup of the pulled pork, some crispy French-fried onions, and finally, a dollop of refreshing coleslaw.
Breakfast Burger
Combining breakfast and dinner into one meal is a game-changer, and incorporating breakfast toppings into your burger only adds to the excitement. To create this unique fusion, start by mashing ripe avocado with a squeeze of lemon juice and a drizzle of olive oil. Meanwhile, cook crispy bacon to add a smoky depth to the dish.
For the lazy hash browns, simply fry diced potatoes in butter until they’re golden brown, then season with onion powder, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt to taste. Continue frying and breaking up the potatoes until they reach your desired level of crispiness.
Assemble the burger by placing the bottom half of a breakfast muffin on a plate, followed by a dollop of creamy mayo, a layer of crispy hash browns, sliced avocado, a juicy burger patty, and finally, top it all off with a fried egg and the remaining muffin half. This indulgent twist on a classic burger is sure to satisfy any appetite.
Guacamole
When it comes to taking burgers to the next level, we often overlook the humble guacamole. Yet, this creamy condiment has the power to elevate even the most rich and meaty of patties. The subtle brightness from the lime juice perfectly balances out the bold flavors, while the avocado provides a satisfying richness. It’s a match made in heaven. To create this flavorful fusion, simply mash ripe avocados with a squeeze of lime juice, a pinch of salt, and a few grinds of pepper. Next, add some diced tomatoes, sliced jalapeños, and a splash more lime juice for added depth. Finally, season with salt to bring out the natural sweetness. Once you’ve got your guacamole game on point, simply assemble the burger by piling it high onto a soft bun. The result is a harmonious blend of textures and tastes that’s sure to please even the pickiest of eaters.
Final Words
Get ready to delight your family and friends with these scrumptious recipes! Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just looking for a new culinary adventure, these dishes are sure to impress. We’d love to hear your thoughts and feedback on these recipes, so please don’t hesitate to share.