There’s nothing quite like the sizzle of a juicy burger hitting the grill, the smoky aroma filling the air, and that first glorious bite packed with bold, charred flavor. Summer is the season for backyard cookouts, laid-afternoons with friends, and—most importantly—burgers that go beyond the ordinary. Whether you’re a fan of classic cheeseburgers, crave something spicy and unexpected, or want to wow your guests with gourmet twists, this lineup of 13 BBQ hamburger recipes has everything you need to turn your next cookout into a legendary feast.
Picture this: thick, flame-kissed patties dripping with melted cheddar and smoky bacon, sliders loaded with tangy barbecue sauce and crispy onion rings, or even a surprising fusion burger that brings global flavors to your grill. We’ve got options for every taste—smoky, sweet, spicy, or loaded with gooey, cheesy goodness. And because no burger is complete without the perfect bun, toppings, and sauces, we’ve included pro tips to take your creations to the next level.
From quick weeknight dinners to show-stopping party centerpieces, these recipes are all about big flavors and even bigger satisfaction. So fire up the grill, grab your favorite cold drink, and get ready to make this summer the season of the best burgers you’ve ever tasted.
Spicy Chipotle BBQ Burger
This Spicy Chipotle BBQ Burger is a delightful twist on your classic summer barbecue. With the perfect blend of smoky chipotle flavor and a hint of heat, it creates a mouthwatering experience that will keep you coming back for more. Making this burger is straightforward, so you can spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying the sunshine with friends and family.
The burger features a juicy beef patty topped with a zesty chipotle BBQ sauce, fresh veggies, and optional jalapeños for those who love a little extra kick. It’s a simple yet satisfying dish that’s sure to impress at any summer cookout.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/4 cup chipotle sauce
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 hamburger buns
- 1 avocado, mashed
- 1 medium tomato, sliced
- 1 cup shredded lettuce
- Pickled jalapeños (optional)
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine ground beef, chipotle sauce, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix until well blended.
- Form the mixture into four equal patties.
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Cook the patties for about 5-6 minutes on each side or until they reach your desired doneness.
- During the last minute of cooking, toast the hamburger buns on the grill.
- Assemble the burgers by spreading mashed avocado on the bottom bun, adding the beef patty, followed by tomato slices, lettuce, and jalapeños if desired. Top with the other half of the bun and serve immediately.
Teriyaki Pineapple Burger
The Teriyaki Pineapple Burger is a delightful twist on the traditional burger. It combines the sweetness of grilled pineapple with savory teriyaki sauce, creating a flavor explosion that’s perfect for summer grilling. These burgers are not only delicious but also simple to make, making them an excellent choice for your next BBQ.
This burger is a fantastic option for those looking for a unique taste. With juicy pineapple slices and a hint of tangy teriyaki, it’s a crowd-pleaser that everyone can enjoy!
Ingredients
- 4 hamburger buns
- 4 slices of fresh pineapple
- 1/2 cup teriyaki sauce
- 4 beef or veggie patties
- 1 cup lettuce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Sesame seeds (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Brush the pineapple slices and patties with olive oil.
- Grill the patties for about 5-7 minutes on each side, brushing them with teriyaki sauce during the last couple of minutes.
- At the same time, grill the pineapple slices for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they are caramelized.
- Assemble the burgers by placing the grilled patty on the bottom bun, adding a slice of grilled pineapple, a layer of lettuce, and finishing with the top bun.
- Sprinkle with sesame seeds and serve immediately!
BBQ Bacon Ranch Burger
The BBQ Bacon Ranch Burger is a delightful twist on the classic burger, loaded with smoky flavors and creamy textures. This burger features a juicy beef patty topped with crispy bacon, fresh greens, and a tangy ranch sauce. It’s perfect for summer grilling and guaranteed to satisfy your cravings.
Making this burger is simple and fun, making it an ideal choice for gatherings or a casual weeknight dinner. With the combination of BBQ sauce and ranch dressing, every bite is bursting with flavor!
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/2 cup BBQ sauce
- 8 slices cooked bacon
- 4 slices cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup ranch dressing
- 4 hamburger buns
- Fresh lettuce or spinach
- Slices of tomato
- Pickles (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. While it warms up, shape the ground beef into four patties and season with salt and pepper.
- Grill the patties for about 4-5 minutes on each side, adding a slice of cheddar cheese on top during the last minute of grilling.
- Toast the hamburger buns on the grill until golden brown.
- Assemble the burgers: spread ranch dressing on the bottom bun, add the beef patty with melted cheese, layer with bacon, lettuce, tomato, and pickles if desired. Finally, drizzle some BBQ sauce on top before closing with the top bun.
- Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious BBQ Bacon Ranch Burger!
Buffalo Chicken Burger
The Buffalo Chicken Burger brings a zesty twist to your summer grilling. This burger is juicy, spicy, and packed with flavor, making it a must-try for BBQ lovers. With a simple preparation, you can whip these up in no time, perfect for a backyard cookout or a casual dinner.
The heat from the buffalo sauce pairs wonderfully with creamy blue cheese and fresh toppings, creating a delightful balance of flavors. Whether you’re a fan of spicy dishes or just looking to add a new favorite to your recipe collection, this burger is sure to impress!
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground chicken
- 1/2 cup buffalo sauce
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 hamburger buns
- 1/2 cup blue cheese crumbles
- 1/4 cup ranch or blue cheese dressing
- Shredded lettuce
- Tomato slices
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
- In a bowl, combine the ground chicken, buffalo sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
- Form the chicken mixture into four patties.
- Place the patties on the grill and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked and the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- During the last minute of cooking, top each patty with blue cheese crumbles to melt.
- Toast the hamburger buns on the grill for about 1-2 minutes.
- Assemble the burgers by spreading ranch or blue cheese dressing on the bun, adding the chicken patty, and topping with shredded lettuce and tomato slices. Garnish with fresh cilantro.
- Serve immediately and enjoy your spicy summer treat!
Mediterranean Lamb Burger
If you’re looking to spice up your summer BBQ, try these Mediterranean lamb burgers! Featuring ground lamb mixed with fresh herbs and spices, this burger brings a delightful twist to your grill sessions. The flavors are bold yet balanced, with hints of garlic, mint, and cumin, making every bite deliciously satisfying.
Not only is this burger packed with flavor, but it’s also easy to whip up. In just a few simple steps, you can create a mouthwatering meal that will impress your friends and family. Serve it with a side of warm pita, creamy tzatziki, and a fresh salad for a complete Mediterranean experience!
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground lamb
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh mint, chopped
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 4 sesame seed burger buns
- Sliced tomatoes and lettuce for toppings
- Tzatziki sauce for serving
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine the ground lamb, minced garlic, parsley, mint, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
- Shape the mixture into four equal patties, making a slight indentation in the center of each burger to help them cook evenly.
- Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat and brush with olive oil. Cook the lamb patties for about 4-5 minutes on each side or until they reach your desired doneness.
- While the burgers are grilling, warm the sesame seed buns on the grill for about 1 minute.
- Assemble the burgers with lettuce, sliced tomatoes, and a generous dollop of tzatziki sauce. Enjoy!
Mushroom Swiss Burger
The Mushroom Swiss Burger is a classic favorite that never disappoints. It features a juicy beef patty topped with rich, melted Swiss cheese and savory sautéed mushrooms. The combination creates a deliciously creamy and earthy flavor that is sure to satisfy your taste buds.
This burger is simple to make and perfect for summer barbecues. It’s a great way to upgrade your usual burger night with minimal effort!
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 slices Swiss cheese
- 2 cups sliced mushrooms
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 4 hamburger buns
- Lettuce and tomato for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Patties: In a bowl, mix ground beef with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Shape into 4 patties.
- Cook the Patties: Heat a grill or skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the patties for about 4-5 minutes on each side or until they reach your desired doneness.
- Sauté the Mushrooms: In a separate pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add sliced mushrooms and sauté until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add Cheese: During the last minute of cooking, place a slice of Swiss cheese on each patty to melt.
- Assemble the Burger: Toast the hamburger buns if desired. Layer the lettuce, the cooked patty with melted cheese, sautéed mushrooms, and sliced tomatoes. Serve hot.
Classic Cheeseburger with a Twist
This classic cheeseburger brings a delightful twist to the traditional recipe. With juicy beef patties, melty cheese, and fresh toppings, it’s a simple yet satisfying meal that everyone loves. The combination of flavors and textures makes each bite a treat, perfect for summer barbecues or casual weeknight dinners.
Adding a special twist, like a zesty sauce or a unique topping, can elevate your cheeseburger to new heights. It’s an easy recipe to whip up, making it a great choice for gatherings or a fun family dinner.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 slices of cheddar cheese
- 4 hamburger buns
- Lettuce leaves
- 2 tomatoes, sliced
- Pickles, as desired
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon ketchup
Instructions
- Form the beef into four equal patties. Season both sides with salt and pepper.
- Preheat a grill or skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the patties for about 4-5 minutes on one side, then flip and place a slice of cheese on top of each patty. Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the patty is cooked to your liking.
- While the burgers are cooking, mix the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, and ketchup in a small bowl to create a zesty sauce.
- Toast the hamburger buns on the grill or in a toaster until golden brown.
- Assemble the burgers: Spread the zesty sauce on the bottom bun, add lettuce, place the cheeseburger patty on top, and layer with tomato slices and pickles. Finish with the top bun.
- Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious cheeseburger with a twist!
Greek Feta and Olive Burger
If you’re looking to shake up your summer BBQ routine, the Greek Feta and Olive Burger is a fantastic option. This burger brings a delightful blend of Mediterranean flavors, combining the richness of feta cheese with the briny taste of olives. It’s not only delicious but also simple to make, perfect for those warm evenings when you want something fresh and vibrant.
This burger is sure to impress your guests with its unique taste and colorful presentation. The combination of fresh vegetables, creamy feta, and savory olives creates a satisfying meal that’s just as fun to eat as it is to prepare. Let’s dive into the recipe so you can get grilling!
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef or lamb
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped black olives
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 burger buns
- Fresh lettuce leaves
- Sliced tomatoes
- Red onion rings
- Greek yogurt or tzatziki sauce for topping
Instructions
- In a bowl, combine the ground meat, feta cheese, chopped olives, oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
- Form the mixture into four equal patties, ensuring they are slightly larger than your burger buns as they will shrink while cooking.
- Preheat your grill or stovetop skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the patties for about 5-6 minutes on each side, or until they reach your desired level of doneness.
- While the burgers are cooking, prepare your buns by toasting them lightly on the grill.
- Once the patties are done, assemble your burgers by placing a patty on each bun, adding lettuce, tomato, onion rings, and a generous dollop of Greek yogurt or tzatziki sauce.
- Serve immediately and enjoy your Greek Feta and Olive Burger with friends and family!
Black Bean and Quinoa Veggie Burger
Looking for a delicious and satisfying veggie burger? This Black Bean and Quinoa Veggie Burger is full of flavor and easy to make! Combining the hearty goodness of black beans with the nutty taste of quinoa, it offers a perfect balance of protein and nutrients. Plus, it’s an excellent way to enjoy a meat-free option at your summer cookouts.
These veggie burgers are not only tasty but also incredibly simple to prepare. With just a handful of ingredients and a few steps, you can whip up a batch that will impress both veggie lovers and meat eaters alike. Serve them with your favorite toppings for a fresh and healthy meal!
Sweet and Spicy BBQ Burger
Get ready to savor the perfect blend of sweet and spicy with this BBQ burger recipe. It features juicy beef patties infused with a zesty sauce that balances heat and sweetness, making each bite a delightful experience. Plus, it’s simple to whip up, perfect for a summer cookout.
This burger is not just about flavor; it’s all about that mouthwatering experience. Serve it up with your favorite toppings like pickles and onions, and watch your guests come back for seconds!
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
- 1 tablespoon sriracha or hot sauce
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 burger buns
- Pickles and onions for topping
Instructions
- Make the Patty Mixture: In a bowl, combine ground beef, BBQ sauce, sriracha, honey, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until just combined.
- Form the Patties: Shape the mixture into four equal patties, making a slight indentation in the center of each.
- Cook the Patties: Preheat your grill or skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the patties for about 4-5 minutes on each side or until they reach your desired doneness.
- Assemble the Burgers: Toast the burger buns lightly. Place each patty on a bun and top with pickles, onions, and extra BBQ sauce if desired.
- Serve: Enjoy these burgers hot off the grill with your favorite sides!
Caprese Burger with Fresh Basil
The Caprese Burger is a delightful twist on the classic burger, combining juicy beef with fresh flavors inspired by the Italian Caprese salad. Topped with ripe tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil, each bite is a burst of taste that feels both refreshing and satisfying. This recipe is simple to make, perfect for summer grilling, and a great way to impress your guests.
With minimal prep and cooking time, you can whip up this gourmet burger in no time. The combination of the rich beef patty and the fresh toppings creates a harmonious blend that makes it a summer favorite. Let’s dive into how to make this delicious Caprese Burger!
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 4 burger buns
- 8 slices fresh mozzarella
- 1 large tomato, sliced
- Fresh basil leaves
- Balsamic glaze (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Patties: In a bowl, combine ground beef, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Form into four equal patties.
- Grill the Burgers: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Cook the patties for about 5-6 minutes on each side, or until they reach your desired doneness. During the last minute of grilling, place slices of mozzarella on top to melt.
- Assemble the Burger: Toast the burger buns lightly on the grill. On the bottom bun, layer fresh basil leaves, the grilled patty with melted mozzarella, sliced tomato, and drizzle with balsamic glaze if desired. Top with the other half of the bun.
- Serve: Enjoy your Caprese Burger with a side of your favorite chips or a fresh salad!
Smoky BBQ Brisket Burger
Get ready to take your BBQ game to the next level with this Smoky BBQ Brisket Burger! This burger is packed with layers of tender, smoky brisket that brings a delightful richness to every bite. Topped with creamy coleslaw and a tangy BBQ sauce, it’s a simple yet satisfying dish that will impress your family and friends during those summer cookouts.
Making this burger is straightforward, even for a novice cook. With just a few quality ingredients and a bit of time, you can create a meal that bursts with flavor. Perfect for casual gatherings, this burger will be the star of your summer barbecues!
Ingredients
- 1 pound smoked brisket, sliced
- 4 hamburger buns
- 1 cup coleslaw mix
- 1/2 cup BBQ sauce
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Pickled red onions (optional)
- Cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Brisket: If using leftover smoked brisket, warm it up in a skillet over low heat. If freshly made, slice it to desired thickness.
- Make the Coleslaw: In a bowl, combine the coleslaw mix, apple cider vinegar, salt, and pepper. Mix well and set aside.
- Toast the Buns: Lightly toast the hamburger buns on a grill or in a skillet until golden brown.
- Assemble the Burger: Place a generous amount of brisket on the bottom half of each bun. Top with coleslaw and drizzle BBQ sauce over it. Add pickled red onions if desired.
- Serve: Place the top bun on and serve immediately, garnished with cilantro, if using.
Cheddar Jalapeño Burger
Get ready for a mouthwatering experience with the Cheddar Jalapeño Burger! This burger is a delightful blend of spicy and cheesy flavors that will satisfy your cravings this summer. The combination of melted cheddar cheese and fresh jalapeños creates a savory taste with a kick, making it perfect for those who enjoy a little heat in their meals.
Simple to make, this recipe requires just a few ingredients and is sure to impress family and friends at your next BBQ. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, you’ll find it easy to whip up this delicious burger in no time. So, fire up the grill and let’s get cooking!
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1-2 jalapeños, sliced
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 hamburger buns
- Tomato slices, for topping
- Lettuce, for topping
Instructions
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
- In a large bowl, mix the ground beef with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Form the mixture into 4 equal-sized patties.
- Place the patties on the grill and cook for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until they reach your desired doneness.
- During the last minute of cooking, place a slice of cheddar cheese on each patty and close the grill lid to melt the cheese.
- Assemble your burgers by placing the patty on a bun and topping it with jalapeño slices, tomato, and lettuce. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Final Thoughts
Summer and burgers go hand in hand, and with these 13 BBQ hamburger recipes, you’ll never run out of ways to keep things exciting. Whether you stick with a tried-and-true favorite or venture into bold new territory, each bite is a celebration of smoky, savory, finger-licking goodness. So gather your crew, pile those plates high, and let every cookout this season be a reminder that the best memories are made around the grill. Happy flipping!
