Burgers are a classic favorite, and adding fun toppings can take them to the next level. There are so many tasty options to try beyond the usual lettuce, tomato, and cheese. From savory to sweet, you can mix and match flavors to create your perfect burger.
You can find creative burger toppings to suit any taste or dietary preference. Whether you want to add crunch, creaminess, or a spicy kick, there’s a topping that will hit the spot. Trying new combinations can turn a simple burger into an exciting meal. Let’s explore some fun ideas to dress up your next burger.
Bacon jam is a tasty burger topping that adds a sweet and savory kick. You can make it by cooking bacon pieces until crispy, then caramelizing onions in the bacon fat.
Add brown sugar, raisins, Worcestershire sauce, and vinegar to the mix. Simmer until it thickens into a jam-like consistency.
Spread this delicious concoction on your burger bun before adding the patty. It pairs well with cheese and gives your burger a rich, complex flavor.
You can make bacon jam ahead of time and store it in the fridge. It’s a versatile topping that works on many types of burgers.
Sriracha mayo adds a spicy kick to your burger. Mix sriracha sauce with mayonnaise for an easy homemade version. Adjust the ratio to your preferred heat level.
Spread this zesty condiment on your bun or directly on the patty. It pairs well with beef, chicken, or veggie burgers.
For extra flavor, add a squeeze of lime juice or a dash of garlic powder to your sriracha mayo. This topping brings heat and creaminess to your burger in one tasty package.
Caramelized onions add a sweet and savory flavor to your burger. To make them, slice onions thinly and cook slowly over low heat until they turn golden brown.
The process takes about 30-40 minutes, but the result is worth the wait. You can add a pinch of sugar to speed up caramelization.
For extra flavor, try adding a splash of balsamic vinegar or a sprinkle of fresh thyme. Caramelized onions pair well with beef, turkey, or veggie burgers.
Spread them directly on your burger or mix them into mayonnaise for a tasty sauce. You can make a big batch and store extras in the fridge for future use.
Blue cheese crumbles add a bold, tangy flavor to your burger. Sprinkle them on top of your patty for a gourmet touch.
The strong taste pairs well with beef and can elevate a simple burger to new heights. You can mix the crumbles into the meat before cooking for extra flavor throughout.
Try combining blue cheese with caramelized onions or crispy bacon for a delicious contrast. For a milder option, mix the crumbles with mayo to create a creamy blue cheese spread.
Remember, a little goes a long way with blue cheese. Start with a small amount and adjust to your taste preferences.
Guacamole is a tasty and creamy topping that adds a Mexican flair to your burger. You can make it by mashing ripe avocados with lime juice, diced onions, and tomatoes.
For extra flavor, mix in some cilantro and a pinch of salt. Spread a generous layer of guacamole on your burger bun or directly on top of the patty.
This topping pairs well with pepper jack cheese and crispy bacon. For a healthier option, you can use it instead of mayo or other high-calorie condiments.
Pineapple rings add a tropical twist to your burger. Grill them for a few minutes on each side to caramelize the sugars and enhance their sweetness.
The juicy, tangy flavor pairs well with savory burger patties. Try combining pineapple with teriyaki sauce or BBQ sauce for a Hawaiian-inspired taste.
You can use canned pineapple rings for convenience, but fresh pineapple offers the best flavor. Cut thick slices from a whole pineapple and remove the core before grilling.
For extra flavor, brush the pineapple with a chili-lime marinade before grilling. This adds a spicy-tangy kick that complements the fruit’s natural sweetness.
A fried egg can turn your burger into a breakfast-inspired treat. Crack an egg into a hot pan and cook it sunny-side up or over-easy.
Place the fried egg on top of your burger patty. The runny yolk adds richness and a creamy texture that blends well with the meat.
For extra flavor, sprinkle some salt and pepper on the egg before adding it to your burger. You can also try pairing it with crispy bacon or ham for a complete breakfast burger experience.
This topping works great on beef, turkey, or veggie burgers. It’s a simple way to make your burger more filling and flavorful.
Onion strings add a delicious crunch to your burger. They’re thin, crispy strips of onion that are battered and fried until golden brown.
To make them, slice onions thinly and dip them in a mixture of buttermilk and flour seasoned with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Fry them in hot oil until crispy.
Place the onion strings directly on top of your burger patty and cover with cheese. This helps them stick to the burger better. The crispy texture and savory onion flavor pair perfectly with beef.
You can also use onion strings as a side dish or to top other sandwiches. They’re a tasty alternative to regular onion rings or raw onion slices on burgers.
BBQ sauce is a classic burger topping that adds a sweet and tangy kick. You can choose from many different flavors, like smoky, spicy, or honey-infused varieties.
Try spreading a thin layer on your bun or drizzling it directly onto your patty. For extra flavor, mix some BBQ sauce into your ground meat before cooking.
Pair BBQ sauce with crispy onion strings or bacon for a delicious combination. You can also use it as a base for other toppings, like coleslaw or pickles.
Truffle aioli adds a luxurious twist to your burger. This fancy sauce combines the rich, earthy flavor of truffles with creamy mayonnaise.
You can make truffle aioli at home by mixing mayo with a small amount of truffle oil. Add minced garlic for extra punch. A little goes a long way, so use truffle oil sparingly.
Spread truffle aioli on your burger bun or use it as a dipping sauce. It pairs well with beef patties, mushrooms, and Swiss cheese. For a gourmet touch, try it on a garlic truffle burger with sautéed shiitake mushrooms.
Roasted garlic adds a rich, mellow flavor to your burger. To make it, cut the top off a whole garlic bulb and drizzle with olive oil. Wrap in foil and roast at 400°F for 30-40 minutes until soft.
Squeeze the roasted cloves onto your burger patty for a savory boost. The garlic becomes soft and spreadable, with a sweet, nutty taste.
You can also mix roasted garlic into mayo for a flavorful spread. Or blend it into butter and melt over your burger. The options are endless with this tasty topping.
Portobello mushrooms make a delicious burger topping or even a meat-free burger patty. You can grill or roast them for the best flavor.
To prepare, clean the mushrooms and remove the stems. Marinate them in olive oil and seasonings for about 15 minutes.
Grill the mushrooms for 3-5 minutes per side until tender. If you prefer, roast them in the oven at 400°F instead.
Add cheese on top during the last minute of cooking for a melty finish. Pair your portobello mushroom with classic burger toppings like lettuce, tomato, and onion.
Sweet potato fries make a tasty and colorful topping for your burger. They add a crispy texture and sweet flavor that pairs well with savory meat.
To make them, cut sweet potatoes into thin strips. Toss with olive oil and seasonings like salt and pepper. Bake at 425°F for about 25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Place a handful of crispy sweet potato fries on top of your burger patty. The combination of soft bun, juicy meat, and crunchy fries creates an interesting mix of textures in each bite.
For extra flavor, try sprinkling your sweet potato fries with cinnamon or chili powder before baking. This gives your burger topping a unique twist.
Buffalo sauce adds a spicy kick to your burger. Drizzle this tangy, hot sauce over your patty for a fiery flavor boost. You can buy premade buffalo sauce or make your own by mixing hot sauce with melted butter.
For extra heat, add sliced jalapeños or pepper jack cheese. Cool it down with a dollop of blue cheese dressing or ranch. Buffalo sauce pairs well with crispy chicken burgers too.
Try topping your buffalo burger with crunchy celery sticks for texture contrast. This combo brings the classic buffalo wing flavors to your burger.
Artichoke hearts add a unique twist to your burger. These tender, flavorful vegetables bring a mild, slightly nutty taste to your meal.
You can use marinated artichoke hearts for extra zest. Chop them up and mix them into your burger patty before cooking.
Another option is to place whole artichoke hearts on top of your cooked patty. They pair well with creamy cheeses like Gorgonzola or feta.
For a Mediterranean flair, combine artichoke hearts with sun-dried tomatoes and spread on your burger. This combo adds both tang and richness to your bite.
Coleslaw adds a crunchy, tangy twist to your burger. This classic side dish works great as a topping too. You can use traditional creamy coleslaw or try a vinegar-based version.
The crisp cabbage and carrots give your burger extra texture. The cool, fresh taste balances out rich meats and cheeses. You can make coleslaw ahead of time, which is handy for cookouts.
Try mixing in some diced apples or raisins for sweetness. Add a dash of hot sauce if you like spice. Coleslaw pairs well with pulled pork or fried chicken burgers too.
Avocado slices add creamy goodness to your burger. They bring a smooth texture and rich flavor that pairs well with beef patties.
You can slice ripe avocados thinly and layer them on top of your burger. For extra flavor, sprinkle some salt and pepper on the avocado slices.
Avocados also offer healthy fats and nutrients. They make your burger more filling and satisfying. Try combining avocado slices with crispy bacon or spicy jalapeños for a tasty contrast.
Pimento cheese adds a creamy, tangy kick to your burger. This Southern favorite combines cheddar cheese, mayonnaise, and diced pimentos.
To use it as a topping, spread a thick layer on your burger patty just before it finishes cooking. Let it melt slightly for maximum flavor.
You can buy pre-made pimento cheese or easily whip up your own. Try adding extras like jalapeños or bacon for more punch.
Pair your pimento cheese burger with classic sides like potato salad or coleslaw. The cool, crisp textures complement the rich, gooey cheese perfectly.
Crispy prosciutto adds a salty crunch to your burger. To make it, place thin slices of prosciutto on a baking sheet. Cook in a preheated oven at 400°F for about 10 minutes until crisp.
Let the prosciutto cool before adding it to your burger. It will give a nice contrast to the juicy patty. You can crumble it on top or leave it whole for extra crunch.
This topping pairs well with creamy cheeses like mozzarella or burrata. It also goes great with fresh tomatoes and basil for an Italian-inspired burger.
Brie cheese adds a touch of luxury to your burger. This creamy French cheese melts beautifully, creating a rich and velvety topping.
To use brie on your burger, slice it thinly and place it on top of the hot patty. The heat will soften the cheese, allowing it to ooze slightly.
Brie pairs well with beef, turkey, or veggie burgers. Its mild flavor complements other toppings like caramelized onions or crisp apple slices.
For an extra special treat, try a brie and pepper jelly combo. The sweet-spicy jelly contrasts nicely with the creamy cheese, giving your burger a gourmet twist.
Apple slices bring a crisp sweetness to burgers. You can add thin slices of apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp to your burger for a refreshing crunch.
The tart flavor pairs well with savory beef and melted cheese. Try combining apple slices with sharp cheddar or blue cheese for a tasty contrast.
For extra flavor, grill the apple slices lightly before adding them to your burger. You can also mix grated apple into the patty itself for moisture and subtle sweetness.
Apple slices work great with other toppings like bacon, caramelized onions, or mustard. This unique combination creates a delicious sweet and salty burger.
Wasabi mayo adds a zesty kick to your burger. Mix wasabi paste with mayonnaise to create this spicy condiment. Start with 1 teaspoon of wasabi per 1/2 cup of mayo and adjust to taste.
Spread the wasabi mayo on your burger bun. It pairs well with grilled beef or tuna patties. Add cucumber slices or lettuce for a cool crunch that balances the heat.
This topping works great on teriyaki-style burgers too. The creamy, spicy mayo complements the sweet teriyaki flavors. Try it with radishes or pickled vegetables for extra zing.
Sun-dried tomatoes add a burst of intense flavor to your burger. These chewy, sweet-tart gems pack a punch of umami goodness.
You can use them whole or chop them up for easier eating. Try mixing them into your burger patty for a Mediterranean twist.
For a tangy spread, blend sun-dried tomatoes with mayo or Greek yogurt. This creates a tasty sauce that complements the meat perfectly.
Pair sun-dried tomatoes with fresh mozzarella and basil for an Italian-inspired burger. The combination of flavors will transport you straight to Tuscany.
Gorgonzola adds a bold, tangy flavor to your burger. This Italian blue cheese has a creamy texture that melts nicely when placed on a hot patty.
You can crumble Gorgonzola over your burger or mix it into the meat before cooking. For a milder taste, blend it with some cream cheese.
Pair Gorgonzola with caramelized onions or fig jam to balance its strong flavor. It also works well with beef, turkey, or veggie patties.
Try topping your Gorgonzola burger with fresh arugula or a drizzle of balsamic glaze for extra flair.
Popular Burger Topping Categories
Burger toppings fall into several key groups. These categories offer many tasty options to customize your burger. Let’s explore some popular choices for cheese, veggies, and sauces.
Cheeses
Cheese adds creamy texture and rich flavor to burgers. Common choices include:
American: Melts easily, mild taste
Cheddar: Sharp flavor, golden color
Swiss: Nutty and sweet
Pepper Jack: Spicy kick
Blue cheese: Strong, tangy taste
Try crumbled feta on lamb burgers for a Greek twist. Goat cheese pairs well with beef or veggie patties. For extra indulgence, add mac and cheese as a gooey topping.
Vegetables
Veggies give burgers crunch, color, and nutrients. Popular picks are:
• Lettuce: Crisp iceberg or leafy greens • Tomato: Juicy slices or sun-dried • Onion: Raw, grilled, or crispy fried • Pickles: Dill chips or sweet bread and butter • Avocado: Creamy slices or guacamole
Grilled mushrooms or peppers add earthy flavors. Cucumber gives a cool crunch. Sprouts or microgreens provide a fresh, peppery taste.
Sauces and Condiments
Sauces and spreads add moisture and zip to burgers. Try these tasty options:
Ketchup: Classic sweet and tangy
Mustard: Yellow, Dijon, or honey
Mayo: Plain or flavored varieties
BBQ sauce: Smoky and sweet
Ranch: Creamy and herbal
Spice things up with sriracha or chipotle sauce. Pesto adds Italian flair. For a tropical twist, try pineapple salsa. Bacon jam brings sweet and salty flavors.
Regional Burger Topping Inspirations
Different places have their own special burger toppings. Some are classic American favorites, while others bring flavors from around the world to your burger.
American Classics
You can’t go wrong with these tried-and-true American toppings. Crispy bacon adds salty crunch to your burger. Melted cheddar cheese gives a gooey, savory bite. For a tangy kick, try pickles or sliced onions.
Want something heartier? Top your burger with chili and cheese for a messy but delicious meal. In the South, pimento cheese spread is a popular choice. For a taste of the Southwest, add sliced avocado and pepper jack cheese.
Don’t forget the sauces. BBQ sauce brings smoky sweetness, while ranch dressing adds creamy flavor. Mix ketchup and mayo for an easy “special sauce” at home.
International Flavors
Bring global tastes to your burger with these toppings. For Greek flavor, add crumbled feta cheese and sliced cucumbers. Try salsa and guacamole for a Mexican-inspired burger.
Asian-inspired toppings can transform your burger too. Kimchi adds spicy, tangy crunch. Teriyaki sauce and grilled pineapple give a sweet-savory Hawaiian twist.
For an Italian touch, top your burger with mozzarella and fresh basil. Or try a fried egg and beetroot for an Australian “works burger” at home.
Curry mayo brings Indian flavor, while tzatziki sauce adds Greek flair. With these international toppings, you can take your taste buds on a world tour.
Creative Presentation Ideas
Fun burger presentations can make eating more exciting. Themed nights and custom burger bars let you get creative with toppings and styles.
Themed Burger Nights
Pick a theme for your burger night to guide your toppings and decorations. Try a Hawaiian luau with pineapple and teriyaki sauce on burgers. Serve them in tiki mugs with little umbrellas. For a Mexican fiesta, top burgers with guacamole, salsa, and queso fresco. Use colorful plates and play mariachi music.
A sports night could feature burgers named after local teams. Add toppings in team colors. Set up a viewing area to watch the big game while you eat. For movie night, create burgers inspired by famous films. A “Godfather” burger might have Italian toppings like mozzarella and marinara sauce.
Build-Your-Own Burger Bars
Let guests customize their perfect burger. Set up stations with different buns, patties, cheeses, and toppings. Include classics like lettuce and tomato. Add unique options like fried eggs, avocado, or crispy onions.
Offer a variety of sauces beyond ketchup and mustard. BBQ sauce, aioli, and salsa are tasty choices. Include vegetarian patties made from beans or veggies. For dessert, set up a sweet burger bar. Use cookie “buns” with brownie “patties” and colorful candy toppings.
Label each item clearly. Provide small tasting spoons so guests can try new flavors. Keep hot items warm in chafing dishes. Have plenty of napkins handy for messy creations.
Cassie brings decades of experience to the Kitchen Community. She is a noted chef and avid gardener. Her new book "Healthy Eating Through the Garden" will be released shortly. When not writing or speaking about food and gardens Cassie can be found puttering around farmer's markets and greenhouses looking for the next great idea.
