Setting up a burger bar is an easy and fun way to host friends and family in your backyard this summer. It’s time to entertain the easy way with a burger bar party! All you need to do is grill some juicy hamburgers and set out a buffet of toppings and condiments. I’ve set up taco bars and ice cream bars, but this was my first time setting up a hamburger bar, and it was a huge hit!
We’ve been enjoying the long summer days and nights, and I don’t want to be stuck in the kitchen. At our last casual get-together with friends, everyone enjoyed customizing their burgers. I set out a few new toppings that had everyone returning for seconds!
Here’s how to create a burger bar that will wow your guests and make you the star of the grilling season!
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How To Build A Burger Bar
Make the Perfect Patties
The heart of any burger is the patty. Here’s how to make sure yours are top-notch. My Gourmet Burgers are from Omaha Steaks, and they are so good. I like to have some in my freezer at all times!
Quality Meat
For the juiciest burgers, choose ground beef with an 80/20 ratio of lean to fat. Try ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based patties for a healthier option. My friends at Omaha Steaks are having a good sale right now!
Seasonings
A simple salt and pepper mix can go a long way. For added flavor, incorporate garlic powder, onion powder, or a splash of Worcestershire sauce.
Forming Patties
Shape your patties slightly larger than your buns, as they will shrink during cooking. Press a small dimple in the center to keep them flat as they cook.
Grill recommendations: Electric outdoor grill | Propane Gas Grill
New Toppings I Tried:
To dazzle your guests, Take your burgers to a level with these two delicious toppings.
Honey Bourbon Onions
This delicious topping is made with red onions, honey, sherry cooking wine, bourbon whiskey, and balsamic vinegar. I served it hot and bubbly.
Smoky Bacon Jam
This is sugar-cured bacon and onions in a sweet and sour sauce and is also great on steaks and pork chops.
Freshly-Prepared Toppings for Your Burger Bar
A variety of toppings can transform a good burger into a great one. I provided links below for my recommendations to make it easier for you to shop. Here are some must-haves:
Cheeses
Offer a selection of Cheddar, Swiss, Blue Cheese, and Pepper Jack. Melt the cheese on the patties during the last minute of grilling for maximum flavor.
Fresh Vegetables
Include crisp lettuce, juicy tomatoes, crunchy onions, Jalapeno Peppers, and creamy avocados. Pro tip: Grilled veggies like mushrooms and bell peppers add a gourmet touch!
Condiments
Stock up on classics like ketchup, mustard, and mayonnaise, as well as BBQ sauce, sriracha mayo, and garlic aioli. Don’t forget the pickles and relish!
Bun Choices
The bun is the vessel that completes your burger masterpiece. Here are some options to add to your burger bar:
Traditional Buns
Sesame seed, brioche, Ciabarra rolls, and whole wheat buns are always a hit.
Buns with a Twist
Try lettuce wraps for a low-carb alternative.
Satisfying Sides
Round out your burger bar with sides that complement your main attraction:
Classic Sides
Serve French fries, potato salad, and coleslaw for a traditional spread.
Healthier Options
Grilled corn on the cob, a fresh green salad, or a fruit platter can provide a lighter balance to your meal!
Recipes You Can Pair with Your Burgers
- Watermelon Slushie
- Grilled Corn On The Cob
- Loaded Baked Potato Salad
- Popular Summer Salad Recipes
- Greek-Style Lemon Roasted Potatoes
- Easy Desserts for Summer Entertaining
- Crispy and Easy Rosemary Garlic Potatoes
Best Grilling Tips for The Season
To ensure your grilling is flawless, keep these tips in mind:
Preheat the Grill
Always preheat your grill for about 15 minutes before cooking. This ensures even cooking and those coveted grill marks. Pro tip: If you don’t have an outdoor grill, I have successfully used both a cast-iron pan and an indoor grill.
Minimal Flipping
Resist the urge to flip your patties too often. Let them cook for several minutes on each side to develop a good crust.
Use a Meat Thermometer
I recommend getting a meat thermometer to make sure all grilled food is cooked to the proper temperature.
Resting Time
Allow your burgers to rest for a few minutes after grilling to let the juices redistribute, ensuring a juicy bite every time.
Get a Grill Basket
If you are grilling small items like vegetables, invest in a grill basket so they do not fall through. It also makes it easier to separate vegetables and sides from uncooked meat.
Retro Burger Baskets
These inexpensive and reusable burger baskets with paper liners are perfect for outdoor burger parties and make clean-up easy!
Omaha Steaks offers a 100% guarantee and stands behind every item on its menu with no questions asked. You can order from them with complete confidence, knowing that they will deliver the highest-quality food to you in the safest way possible.
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