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Classic Homemade Burger Bar

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A simple, crowd-pleasing burger bar recipe featuring juicy, flavorful patties and a variety of toppings for everyone to customize their perfect burger. Perfect for casual gatherings and easy to prepare.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 pounds (1.36 kg) 80/20 ground beef (80% lean, 20% fat), preferably local grass-fed
  • 2 teaspoons kosher salt
  • 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 12 classic hamburger buns, lightly toasted (brioche buns optional)
  • 12 slices sharp cheddar or American cheese (dairy-free slices for vegan options)
  • Fresh lettuce leaves (romaine or butter lettuce)
  • Tomato slices
  • Red onion rings, thinly sliced
  • Pickles (dill or bread and butter)
  • Avocado slices (optional)
  • Bacon strips, cooked crispy (optional)
  • Jalapeño slices
  • Ketchup, mustard, mayo, and favorite burger sauces
  • Additional sides: potato chips, coleslaw, pickled veggies

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, gently combine ground beef with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. Mix carefully to avoid overworking the meat (3-5 minutes).
  2. Divide mixture into 12 equal portions (about 4 ounces or 113 grams each). Shape each into a round patty about ¾ inch (2 cm) thick. Press a small indentation in the center with your thumb.
  3. Preheat grill, grill pan, or cast-iron skillet to medium-high heat (about 400°F/204°C).
  4. Cook patties on grill or pan for about 4 minutes on one side without pressing. Flip and cook another 3-4 minutes for medium doneness (internal temp 160°F/71°C). Add cheese slices during last minute to melt.
  5. Toast buns lightly on grill or in oven for 1-2 minutes until golden brown.
  6. Arrange buns, patties, cheese, and toppings in separate bowls or platters for a burger bar setup.
  7. Encourage guests to build their own burgers and enjoy.

Notes

Do not overwork the meat to keep patties tender. Press a thumb indentation in the center of each patty to prevent puffing. Avoid pressing patties while cooking to retain juices. Let burgers rest a few minutes after cooking. Add cheese in the last minute and cover loosely to melt. For gluten-free, use lettuce wraps or gluten-free buns; for dairy-free, use dairy-free cheese slices. Patties can be formed a day ahead and refrigerated to enhance flavor.

Nutrition

Keywords: burger bar, homemade burgers, crowd-pleaser, grilling, easy burger recipe, classic burger, backyard BBQ, customizable burgers

Find it online: https://sizzlesprout.com/classic-homemade-burger-bar-recipe-easy-tips-for-feeding-a-crowd/