10 Creative Burger Recipes To Try On The Grill

Are you tired of the same old, plain burgers on the grill? Look no further! This article presents 10 mouthwatering and innovative burger recipes that will take your grilling game to the next level. From Mediterranean-inspired lamb burgers to cheesy mac and cheese burgers, there is something for every palate. So grab your apron and get ready to impress your family and friends with these creative burger recipes that are sure to make you the grill master of the neighborhood.

1. Classic Cheeseburger

All-American Favorite

One of the most beloved burgers of all time is the classic cheeseburger. It is a staple in American cuisine and has a timeless appeal that never fails to satisfy. The combination of a juicy beef patty, melted cheese, and a soft bun creates a mouthwatering experience that is hard to resist.

Simple Ingredients

To make a classic cheeseburger, you only need a few simple ingredients. Start with high-quality ground beef, preferably with a higher fat content to ensure a juicy patty. Season the meat with salt and pepper to enhance the flavor. Then, shape the meat into patties of your desired size.

Next, it’s time to cook the patties. Whether you prefer grilling, pan-frying, or using a griddle, make sure to cook the patties until they reach the desired internal temperature. Don’t forget to add a slice of your favorite cheese on top of the patty while it’s still hot, allowing it to melt perfectly.

Tips for Juicy Patties

The secret to a juicy cheeseburger lies in the preparation of the patty itself. Here are a few tips to ensure your patties turn out perfectly juicy:

1. Let the meat come to room temperature before forming the patties. This will ensure even cooking throughout.
2. Avoid overmixing the ground beef. Overmixing can make the patties tough and dense. Gently shape the meat into patties without compacting it too much.
3. Create a small indentation in the center of each patty before cooking. As the patty cooks, it will naturally puff up in the middle, and the indentation prevents it from turning into a dome shape.
4. Resist the urge to press down on the patty while cooking. This can squeeze out the juices and make the patty dry.

By following these tips, you’ll be able to enjoy a perfectly juicy classic cheeseburger every time you grill.

2. Gourmet Bacon Avocado Burger

Indulgent Combination

For those craving a burger that takes things up a notch, the gourmet bacon avocado burger is the ultimate indulgence. It combines the rich and savory flavors of bacon and avocado to create a mouthwatering experience that will leave you wanting more.

Step-by-Step Instructions

To make a gourmet bacon avocado burger, follow these simple steps:

1. Start by cooking the bacon until it becomes crispy. Set it aside on a paper towel to drain excess grease.
2. Prepare the avocado by slicing it into thin, even rounds.
3. Season your ground beef with salt and pepper, just like you would for a classic cheeseburger.
4. Shape the beef into patties, making them slightly larger in diameter than the buns since they will shrink slightly when cooked.
5. Grill the patties to your desired level of doneness, making sure to flip them halfway through the cooking process.
6. As the patties cook, toast your burger buns on the grill for a slightly crispy texture.
7. Once the patties are cooked and the buns are toasted, it’s time to assemble the burgers. Start by placing a patty on the bottom half of the bun.
8. Add a few slices of crispy bacon on top of the patty, followed by a layer of avocado.
9. Finally, top it off with the other half of the bun, and your gourmet bacon avocado burger is ready to be devoured.

Delicious Toppings

To elevate the flavor profile of the gourmet bacon avocado burger even further, you can add some delicious toppings. Consider adding caramelized onions for a touch of sweetness, or some tangy pickles for a contrasting flavor. You can also experiment with different types of cheese, such as smoked Gouda or blue cheese, to add an extra layer of richness.

Feel free to customize your burger to your taste preferences, adding additional condiments like mayonnaise, mustard, or even a homemade aioli for an extra kick.

With its indulgent combination of flavors and easy-to-follow recipe, the gourmet bacon avocado burger is sure to impress your family and friends at your next backyard barbecue.

3. BBQ Ranch Burger

Tangy and Smoky Flavors

If you’re a fan of tangy and smoky flavors, the BBQ ranch burger is the perfect choice for you. It combines the richness of barbecue sauce with the creaminess of ranch dressing to create a taste sensation that will leave your taste buds craving more.

Homemade BBQ Sauce

The secret to a delicious BBQ ranch burger lies in the barbecue sauce. While store-bought sauces can work, creating your own homemade sauce will take this burger to the next level. Here’s a simple recipe for a tangy and smoky barbecue sauce:

Ingredients:

• 1 cup ketchup
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a saucepan, combine all the ingredients and whisk them together until well combined.
2. Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a simmer.
3. Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce cook for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Once the sauce has thickened slightly, remove it from the heat and let it cool before using it on your burger.

Creamy Ranch Dressing

To complement the tangy and smoky flavors of the barbecue sauce, a creamy ranch dressing is the perfect addition. You can either use store-bought ranch dressing or make your own at home. Here’s a simple recipe for a homemade ranch dressing:

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, sour cream, garlic, lemon juice, and onion powder until well combined.
2. Stir in the fresh herbs, dill, parsley, and chives.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before using to allow the flavors to meld together.

By combining the homemade barbecue sauce and creamy ranch dressing, you can create a BBQ ranch burger that is bursting with flavor. Top it off with some crispy lettuce and a slice of juicy tomato for added freshness.

4. Mediterranean Lamb Burger

Exotic Twist

For those looking to infuse their burger with an exotic twist, the Mediterranean lamb burger is the perfect choice. It brings together the flavors of the Mediterranean with juicy ground lamb, aromatic herbs, and a refreshing tzatziki sauce.

Herbs and Spices

The key to a flavorful Mediterranean lamb burger lies in the herbs and spices used to season the meat. Here are some common herbs and spices that you can use to create a delicious lamb burger:

• Fresh mint: Mint adds a fresh and vibrant flavor to the lamb burger. Finely chop the mint leaves and mix them into the ground lamb before shaping the patties.
• Ground cumin: Cumin adds a warm and earthy flavor that pairs well with lamb. Sprinkle some ground cumin on both sides of the patties before cooking.
• Dried oregano: Oregano is a staple herb in Mediterranean cuisine and adds a savory note to the lamb burger. Mix some dried oregano into the ground lamb before shaping the patties.

By incorporating these herbs and spices, you’ll be able to elevate the flavor profile of your lamb burgers and transport your taste buds to the Mediterranean.

Refreshing Tzatziki Sauce

One of the highlights of the Mediterranean lamb burger is the refreshing tzatziki sauce. This creamy yogurt-based sauce adds a cool and tangy element to the burger.

To make a homemade tzatziki sauce, follow this simple recipe:

Ingredients:

• 1 cup Greek yogurt
• 1/2 cucumber, peeled, seeded, and grated
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, minced garlic, chopped dill, and lemon juice.
2. Stir everything together until well combined.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.

Spread a generous amount of tzatziki sauce on the bun before adding the lamb patty. Top it off with some sliced red onion and crumbled feta cheese for an extra burst of flavor.

With its exotic twist and refreshing tzatziki sauce, the Mediterranean lamb burger is a delicious alternative to traditional beef burgers.

5. Hawaiian Teriyaki Burger

Sweet and Savory Fusion

Looking to add a touch of sweetness to your burger? The Hawaiian teriyaki burger combines the savory flavors of a traditional burger with the sweetness of grilled pineapple and a delicious teriyaki glaze.

Grilled Pineapple

Grilled pineapple is the star of the Hawaiian teriyaki burger. The sweetness of the fruit cuts through the richness of the burger and adds a unique flavor profile. To grill the pineapple, follow these simple steps:

1. Slice a fresh pineapple into rings, making sure to remove the skin and core.
2. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
3. Lightly brush both sides of the pineapple rings with a little oil to prevent sticking.
4. Place the pineapple rings on the grill and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until grill marks appear.
5. Remove the pineapple from the grill and set aside until ready to assemble the burgers.

Teriyaki Glaze

To further enhance the sweet and savory fusion of the Hawaiian teriyaki burger, a teriyaki glaze is the perfect addition. You can use a store-bought teriyaki sauce or make your own at home using the following recipe:

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon grated ginger
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water (optional, for thickening)

Instructions:

1. In a small saucepan, combine the soy sauce, brown sugar, honey, rice vinegar, minced garlic, and grated ginger.
2. Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a simmer.
3. If desired, whisk in the cornstarch and water mixture to thicken the sauce.
4. Let the sauce simmer for 5-7 minutes, or until it has reduced slightly and thickened.
5. Remove the sauce from the heat and let it cool before using it to glaze the burgers.

To assemble the Hawaiian teriyaki burger, place a cooked beef patty on the bottom half of a toasted bun. Drizzle some teriyaki glaze on top of the patty, followed by a grilled pineapple ring. Complete the burger with a dollop of mayonnaise and some fresh lettuce.

With its sweet and savory fusion, the Hawaiian teriyaki burger brings a taste of the tropics to your backyard barbecue.

6. Mexi-Cali Burger

Southwestern Flair

Add a Southwestern flair to your burger with the Mexi-Cali burger. This burger combines the bold flavors of Mexico with the fresh and vibrant ingredients of California to create a taste sensation that will transport you to a sun-soaked beach.

Spicy Guacamole

No Mexi-Cali burger is complete without a generous dollop of spicy guacamole. Here’s a simple recipe to make your own guacamole at home:

Ingredients:

• 2 ripe avocados
• 1/4 cup diced red onion
• 1/4 cup diced tomato
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro
• 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon lime juice
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, scoop the flesh of the avocados and mash them with a fork until creamy.
2. Stir in the red onion, tomato, cilantro, jalapeño pepper, minced garlic, and lime juice.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap, making sure it is pressed directly against the surface of the guacamole to prevent browning.
5. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.

Spread a generous amount of spicy guacamole on the bun before adding the beef patty. For added heat, consider topping the guacamole with some pickled jalapeños or a drizzle of hot sauce.

Fiery Salsa

To further enhance the Southwestern flavors of the Mexi-Cali burger, a fiery salsa is the perfect addition. You can use a store-bought salsa or make your own at home using the following recipe:

Ingredients:

• 2 tomatoes, diced
• 1/4 cup diced red onion
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
• 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon lime juice
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, combine the diced tomatoes, red onion, chopped cilantro, jalapeño pepper, minced garlic, and lime juice.
2. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

To assemble the Mexi-Cali burger, place a cooked beef patty on the bottom half of a toasted bun. Top the patty with a generous amount of spicy guacamole, followed by a spoonful of fiery salsa. Finish the burger with a sprinkle of crumbled queso fresco or grated Monterey Jack cheese.

With its Southwestern flair and vibrant flavors, the Mexi-Cali burger is a perfect choice for those who love a little heat in their burgers.

7. Caprese Chicken Burger

Light and Fresh Option

For those seeking a lighter and fresher option, the Caprese chicken burger is a delightful choice. Inspired by the classic Italian Caprese salad, this burger combines juicy chicken with basil pesto and melty mozzarella to create a mouthwatering experience.

Basil Pesto

The star of the Caprese chicken burger is the basil pesto. This fragrant sauce adds a burst of fresh flavor to the burger. You can use store-bought pesto or make your own at home using the following recipe:

Ingredients:

• 2 cups fresh basil leaves
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup pine nuts
• 2 cloves garlic, peeled
• 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a blender or food processor, combine the basil leaves, grated Parmesan cheese, pine nuts, and garlic cloves.
2. Begin blending the ingredients, gradually adding the olive oil in a steady stream.
3. Continue blending until the mixture becomes smooth and creamy.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Transfer the pesto to a jar and refrigerate until ready to use.

Melty Mozzarella

To add a gooey and melty element to the Caprese chicken burger, mozzarella cheese is the perfect addition. You can use fresh mozzarella slices or even a melted mozzarella cheese sauce to achieve the desired effect. Place the mozzarella on top of the cooked chicken patty and let it melt slightly before assembling the burger.

To assemble the Caprese chicken burger, place a cooked chicken patty on the bottom half of a toasted bun. Spread a generous amount of basil pesto on top of the patty, and then add a slice of ripe tomato and a few fresh basil leaves. Finish it off with a melty mozzarella cheese slice, and complete the burger by placing the other half of the toasted bun on top.

With its light and fresh flavors, the Caprese chicken burger is a refreshing option that is perfect for a summer barbecue.

8. Veggie Quinoa Burger

Healthy Plant-Based Alternative

For those following a plant-based diet or looking for a healthier alternative to meat, the veggie quinoa burger is an excellent choice. Packed with protein-rich quinoa and fresh vegetables, this burger is both nutritious and delicious.

Protein-Packed Quinoa

Quinoa is a versatile and nutritious grain that serves as the base for the veggie quinoa burger. It provides a good source of plant-based protein and adds a satisfying texture to the burger.

To make the veggie quinoa burger, follow this simple recipe:

Ingredients:

• 2 cups cooked quinoa
• 1 cup mashed black beans
• 1/2 cup grated zucchini
• 1/2 cup grated carrot
• 1/4 cup diced red onion
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
• 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
• 1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, mashed black beans, grated zucchini, grated carrot, diced red onion, minced garlic, fresh parsley, fresh cilantro, breadcrumbs, ground flaxseed mixture, salt, and pepper.
2. Stir everything together until well combined.
3. Using your hands, shape the mixture into patties of your desired size.
4. Refrigerate the patties for at least 30 minutes to allow them to firm up.
5. Cook the patties on a preheated grill or stovetop until golden brown and heated through, flipping them halfway through the cooking process.

Fresh Vegetables

To enhance the freshness of the veggie quinoa burger, you can add some fresh vegetables as toppings. Consider adding some crisp lettuce leaves, sliced tomatoes, and thinly sliced red onion for added crunch and flavor. You can also add a dollop of your favorite vegan mayonnaise or a tangy mustard to complement the flavors of the burger.

With its protein-packed quinoa and fresh vegetable toppings, the veggie quinoa burger offers a healthy and satisfying option for veggie lovers.

9. Thai Peanut Burger

Asian-inspired Twist

If you’re craving an Asian-inspired twist to your burger, the Thai peanut burger is the perfect choice. It combines the rich and nutty flavors of peanut sauce with the freshness of cilantro and lime to create an explosion of taste.

Crunchy Peanut Sauce

The star of the Thai peanut burger is the crunchy peanut sauce. This sauce adds a unique and nutty flavor to the burger. Here’s a simple recipe to make your own peanut sauce at home:

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup natural peanut butter
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon grated ginger
• 1 tablespoon lime juice
• 1 tablespoon chopped peanuts (for crunch)
• Hot water (if needed to thin the sauce)

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, whisk together the peanut butter, soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, minced garlic, grated ginger, and lime juice.
2. If the sauce is too thick, add hot water in small increments until it reaches the desired consistency.
3. Stir in the chopped peanuts for an added crunch.
4. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before using it to dress your burgers.

Cilantro and Lime

To enhance the fresh and citrusy flavors of the Thai peanut burger, cilantro and lime are the perfect additions. Top your burger with some fresh cilantro leaves for a burst of herbaceousness and squeeze some lime juice over the patty for a tangy kick.

To assemble the Thai peanut burger, start with a cooked beef patty on the bottom half of a toasted bun. Drizzle a generous amount of the peanut sauce on top of the patty, and then add some fresh cilantro leaves and a squeeze of lime juice. Finish the burger by placing the other half of the toasted bun on top.

With its Asian-inspired twist and unique flavor combination, the Thai peanut burger is a tantalizing option that will transport your taste buds to the enchanting streets of Thailand.

10. Breakfast Burger

Morning Delight

Who says burgers are just for lunch and dinner? The breakfast burger is a delightful morning delight that combines the flavors of bacon and egg with a drizzle of maple syrup for a sweet and savory combination.

Bacon and Egg

To create the ultimate breakfast burger, you’ll need crispy bacon and a perfectly cooked egg. Start by cooking the bacon until it becomes crispy and set it aside on a paper towel to drain excess grease.

For the egg, you can prepare it to your liking. Whether you prefer it sunny-side-up, over-easy, or scrambled, make sure it’s cooked to perfection.

Maple Syrup Drizzle

To bring the sweet element to the breakfast burger, a drizzle of maple syrup is the perfect addition. The rich and velvety sweetness of the syrup complements the salty bacon and savory egg perfectly.

To assemble the breakfast burger, start with a cooked beef patty on the bottom half of a toasted bun. Top the patty with a slice of crispy bacon, followed by the perfectly cooked egg. Finally, drizzle some maple syrup over the egg to add a touch of sweetness. Place the other half of the toasted bun on top, and your breakfast burger is ready to be enjoyed.

With its combination of sweet and savory flavors, the breakfast burger is the perfect way to start your day off right.

In conclusion, these 10 creative burger recipes are perfect for those looking to experiment with flavors and elevate their burger game. From the classic cheeseburger to the exotic Mediterranean lamb burger, each recipe offers a unique and delicious twist that will leave you wanting more. Whether you prefer meat-based burgers or plant-based alternatives, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. So fire up the grill and get ready to tantalize your taste buds with these mouthwatering creations. Happy grilling!