Burgers are great as they are, but if you’re still sticking to the standard lettuce, tomato, and ketchup, you’re just scratching the surface. There’s a whole world of toppings out there that can take a burger from basic to something way more exciting. Think beyond bacon and cheese to unique flavors and options that will make burger night even more crave-worthy.
Pesto
Fresh and herbaceous, pesto adds a burst of Italian flavor. It’s fantastic with chicken burgers or mozzarella-topped patties, offering a fresh, garlicky contrast to the meat.
Chutney
Chutney, with its mix of fruit, vinegar, and spices, offers a unique sweet and tangy flavor profile. It’s especially good on turkey or veggie burgers, adding complexity and a hint of sweetness.
Onion Rings
Adding a crispy, crunchy layer, onion rings bring both texture and a sweet, fried flavor to your burger. They’re great for those who love a bit of crunch and go well with any classic burger setup.
Chili
Hearty and spicy, chili transforms a simple burger into a messy, eat-with-a-fork experience. It’s perfect for anyone who loves a bit of heat and goes well with a dollop of sour cream or shredded cheese on top.
Hoisin Sauce
This thick, fragrant sauce adds a sweet and salty depth of flavor, ideal for an Asian-inspired twist on the classic burger. It pairs well with crunchy slaw or cucumber slices for a refreshing bite.
Zucchini Pickles
These pickles bring a unique, tangy crunch that’s slightly sweeter than traditional pickles. They’re excellent on veggie burgers or with goat cheese, adding a bright, vinegary note that’s unexpectedly good.
Whiskey Bacon Jam
This sweet and savory jam combines the smoky flavor of bacon with the rich notes of whiskey, making it a must-try for any burger. It’s perfect for adding a gourmet twist and pairs well with sharp cheddar or blue cheese.
Apple Slaw
Crunchy, sweet, and slightly tangy, apple slaw adds freshness and texture. It’s a great contrast to rich meats and pairs well with pork burgers or as a refreshing contrast to spicy toppings.
Pineapple
A slice of grilled pineapple brings a juicy, tropical sweetness that contrasts beautifully with savory meats. It’s a match made in heaven for teriyaki burgers or as a partner to spicy toppings like jalapeños.
Jalapeño Poppers
Stuffed with cheese and fried until crispy, jalapeño poppers add a creamy spice to burgers. They’re perfect for anyone who craves heat and creaminess, complementing beef or chicken patties wonderfully.
Pickled Red Onions
These tangy and slightly sweet onions add a bright pop of color and flavor, cutting through richer meats with ease. They’re fantastic with both beef and chicken burgers, especially when paired with creamy sauces.
Fried Egg
A fried egg on top of your burger adds a rich, creamy element. When the yolk breaks, it coats the patty in flavor. Ideal for breakfast burgers or to add a protein punch, it goes well with bacon or avocado.
Spinach Dip
Creamy, garlicky spinach dip isn’t just for chips; it adds a rich, savory layer to burgers. Pair it with a simple beef patty to let its flavors shine, or add it to a veggie burger for an extra dose of deliciousness.
Cowboy Candy
Sliced jalapeños candied in a syrupy mix, cowboy candy offers a sweet heat that’s irresistible on burgers. It pairs brilliantly with barbecue sauce and smoky cheese, giving a kick that barbecue lovers will adore.
Buffalo Mayo
Spicy, tangy buffalo mayo brings the flavor of buffalo wings to your burger. It’s perfect for adding a kick and pairs especially well with blue cheese or celery sticks for a true Buffalo experience.
Cook Up the Juiciest Burgers Ever with These 10 Tricks
There’s nothing worse than biting into a dry, flavorless burger. Grilling the perfect burger isn’t just about slapping some meat on the grill; it takes a bit of know-how. With these simple tips, you’ll be making juicy, delicious burgers that everyone will rave about.
Read it Here: Cook Up the Juiciest Burgers Ever with These 10 Tricks
12 Surprising Foods That Are Secretly Excellent For Grilling
When you think of grilling, steaks and burgers might be the first foods that come to mind, but there’s a whole world of unexpected items that can benefit from the smoky char of a barbecue. From the creamy richness of avocado to the sweet juiciness of peaches, expanding your grilling repertoire can turn an ordinary backyard barbecue into a gourmet affair. These surprising foods prove that almost anything can be made more delicious with a little grill time.
Read it Here: 12 Surprising Foods That Are Secretly Excellent For Grilling
Select images provided by Depositphotos.
Gina Matsoukas is an AP syndicated writer. She is the founder, photographer and recipe developer of Running to the Kitchen — a food website focused on providing healthy, wholesome recipes using fresh and seasonal ingredients. Her work has been featured in numerous media outlets both digital and print, including MSN, Huffington post, Buzzfeed, Women’s Health and Food Network.
