This Irish Pub Burger is a tasty delight topped with cheese, crispy bacon, and tangy onion rings. It’s perfect for a cozy meal at home or to impress friends at a BBQ!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I recommend using 80/20 ground beef for the perfect balance of flavor and juiciness. If you’re looking for a leaner option, go for 85/15, but remember it might be a bit drier. You can also use ground turkey for a lighter burger.
Irish Cheddar Cheese: This cheese adds a nice sharpness to the burger. If you can’t find Irish cheddar, sharp yellow cheddar or even a mild gouda can work well. You could try a smoked cheese for a different flavor twist!
Bacon: Cooked bacon adds a wonderful crunch. If you want a healthier version, turkey bacon can replace pork bacon, though the flavor will be milder. You can also skip it for a vegetarian option, or use mushrooms for umami.
Brioche Burger Buns: Brioche buns are soft and buttery, a great match for this burger. If you’re looking for healthier options, whole wheat buns or lettuce wraps are excellent alternatives. You can even try pretzel buns for a fun twist.
Mayonnaise: The mayo adds creaminess. For a lighter option, use Greek yogurt or mustard in place of mayo. You can even add some herbs to plain yogurt for extra flavor!
How Do You Achieve the Perfect Burger Patty?
Making great burger patties is more than just combining meat and ingredients. The key is to handle the meat gently. Overworking it can lead to tough burgers.
- Mix ingredients just enough to combine, then shape into patties without pressing too hard.
- Make a small indent in the center of each patty; this helps them cook evenly and prevents puffing up.
- Cook on medium-high heat; this gives a nice sear and keeps the juices inside.
Let your burgers rest for a minute after cooking. This helps keep them juicy! Enjoy your grilling time!
How to Make a Delicious Irish Pub Burger
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Burgers:
- 1 lb ground beef (preferably 80/20)
- 1/2 cup Irish cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1/4 cup diced onions
- 1/4 cup cooked bacon, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
For the Toppings:
- 4 brioche burger buns
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 cup crispy fried onions (for topping)
- Optional: lettuce, tomato, and pickles for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and around 10 minutes to cook. In total, you’ll be enjoying your delicious Irish Pub Burger in about 25 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Burger Mixture:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, shredded Irish cheddar cheese, diced onions, chopped bacon, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Use your hands to mix everything together gently, just until combined. Be careful not to overwork the meat, as this can make the burgers tough.
2. Cook the Burger Patties:
Preheat your grill or a stovetop skillet over medium-high heat. While it’s heating up, divide the beef mixture into four equal portions and shape them into patties. Once the grill is hot, place the patties on it. Cook for about 4-5 minutes on one side, then flip them and cook for another 3-4 minutes, or until they’ve reached your desired doneness.
3. Make the Sauce and Toast the Buns:
While your burgers are cooking, mix the mayonnaise and Dijon mustard together in a small bowl. This will be your tasty sauce! Once the burgers are finished, take them off the heat and let them rest for a minute. Meanwhile, toast the brioche buns on the grill or in a toaster until they are golden brown.
4. Assemble Your Irish Pub Burgers:
Start by spreading the mayonnaise-Dijon sauce on the bottom half of each toasted bun. Place a cooked burger patty on top and add a generous handful of crispy fried onions. If you like, you can also add some fresh lettuce, tomato slices, and pickles on top for extra crunch and flavor. Finally, place the top bun on and give it a little press down.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Now, it’s time to enjoy your delicious Irish Pub Burger! Serve them up with your favorite sides like fries or a salad, and dig in!
Can I Use Ground Turkey or Chicken Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! If you prefer ground turkey or chicken, just make sure to follow the same mixing and cooking instructions. You might want to add a touch more seasoning since these meats are leaner and can be less flavorful than beef.
What Kind of Cheese Can I Substitute for Irish Cheddar?
If you can’t find Irish cheddar, good substitutes include sharp white cheddar, Gruyère, or even smoked Gouda for an extra kick. Just ensure the cheese you select melts well to complement the burger!
How to Store Leftover Burgers?
Store any leftover cooked burger patties in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them in a skillet over medium heat until heated through, or pop them in a microwave for a quick option.
Can I Prepare the Patties Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can mix the burger patty ingredients and form the patties a day in advance. Just cover them tightly with plastic wrap and store them in the fridge. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making for an even tastier burger!
