Creative Yet Simple Ways to Mix Up Your Summer Burger Routine

Burgers are a classic favorite, but sometimes it’s fun to step outside the box and try something new. Here are 20 creative and simple ways to elevate your summer burger game and delight your taste buds.

Please note: This post may contain affiliate links which means that if you click through them and make a purchase, we may be financially compensated for directing you there. Thanks for supporting Cookware & Gifts!

1. Stuffed Burgers

• Cheese-Stuffed: Hide a cube of your favorite cheese inside the patty for a gooey surprise.
• Mushroom-Stuffed: Sauté mushrooms with garlic and herbs, then stuff them inside the patty for a savory twist.

2. Different Meats

• Lamb: Try using ground lamb instead of beef for a rich, flavorful burger.
• Turkey: Ground turkey is a lean alternative that’s perfect for a lighter meal.

3. Vegetarian Options

• Portobello Mushrooms: Grill a large portobello mushroom cap for a meaty, vegetarian-friendly burger.
• Black Bean Burger: Combine black beans, breadcrumbs, and spices for a hearty, meat-free option. Need a recipe? Try this one from Tastes Better From Scratch!

4. Unique Buns

• Lettuce Wraps: Swap out the bun for crisp lettuce leaves for a lower-carb option.
• Pretzel Buns: Add a chewy, salty twist with pretzel buns.

5. Saucy Additions

• Sriracha Mayo: Mix mayonnaise with sriracha for a spicy kick.
• Pesto: Spread pesto on the bun for a burst of fresh, herby flavor.

6. Gourmet Cheeses

• Blue Cheese: Crumble blue cheese on top for a tangy, creamy addition.
• Goat Cheese: Spread goat cheese for a rich, slightly tangy taste.

7. Exotic Toppings

• Avocado: Add creamy slices of avocado to enhance the overall texture of the burger.
• Pineapple: Grill pineapple rings for a sweet and savory combo.

8. Flavorful Spices

• Cajun Seasoning: Sprinkle your patty with Cajun spices for a Southern kick.
• Garlic Powder: Mix garlic powder into the meat for an extra layer of flavor.

9. Crispy Add-Ons

• Onion Rings: Add a crunchy layer with onion rings piled up high the burger.
• Bacon: Everything’s better with crispy bacon.

10. International Flavors

• Greek Burger: Top with tzatziki, feta, and cucumbers.
• Mexican Burger: Add guacamole, jalapeños, and salsa.

11. Sweet Twists

• Apple Slices: Thin slices of apple add a surprising sweetness and crunch.
• Fig Jam: Spread a little fig jam on the bun for a sweet and savory mix.

12. Pickled Goodness

• Pickled Red Onions: Add tangy pickled red onions for a zesty bite.
• Kimchi: Top with kimchi for a spicy, fermented flair.

13. Herb Infusions

• Fresh Basil: Add fresh basil leaves for a burst of aromatic flavor.
• Rosemary: Mix finely chopped rosemary into the patty for a fragrant twist.

14. Special Sauces

• Teriyaki Glaze: Brush your patty with teriyaki sauce for an Asian-inspired burger.
• Chimichurri: Top with chimichurri sauce for a vibrant, herbaceous flavor.

15. Unique Veggies

• Beetroot: Add a slice of roasted beetroot for an earthy, sweet addition.
• Zucchini: Grill thin slices of zucchini for a fresh, summery touch.

16. Cheese Alternatives

• Cashew Cheese: Try cashew cheese for a vegan-friendly option.
• Halloumi: Grill slices of halloumi for a salty, chewy topping.

17. Breakfast Burgers

• Fried Egg: Top your burger with a fried egg for a breakfast twist.
• Hash Browns: Add crispy hash browns for extra crunch.

18. Flavorful Spreads

• Sun-Dried Tomato Pesto: Spread on sun-dried tomato pesto for a burst of umami.
• Hummus: Use hummus as a creamy, flavorful spread.

19. Creative Combos

• BBQ and Coleslaw: Top with BBQ sauce and coleslaw for a Southern-inspired burger.
• Buffalo and Blue Cheese: Drizzle buffalo sauce and add blue cheese for a spicy, tangy combo.

20. DIY Burger Bar

• Set up a burger bar with various buns, cheeses, toppings, and sauces so everyone can create their own masterpiece.

With these 20 ideas, you’ll never have to settle for a plain burger again. Mix and match these suggestions to create endless possibilities and keep your burger nights exciting and delicious. Happy grilling!

Must Have Kitchen Essentials for Burger Mastery