Few things in this world are more satisfying than a really great burger. It is primal, it is simple, and when done right, it is absolutely unforgettable. The burger board takes everything you love about a classic cookout and turns it into a spread worthy of a standing ovation.
Whether you're hosting the guys, feeding the family or just treating yourself on a Saturday afternoon, this is the move.
Start with the right meat
The foundation of any great burger is the patty, and the meat you choose matters more than most people realize. An 80/20 blend — eighty percent lean beef to twenty percent fat — is the sweet spot. The fat is what gives you flavor and juiciness, so resist the urge to go leaner. For something with a little more depth, try a blend of chuck and brisket, or ask your butcher for a custom grind. Form your patties gently, pressing just enough to hold their shape, press the middle down with your thumb for even cooking, and always season generously with salt and pepper right before they hit the heat.
Master the grill
High heat is your friend. Get your grill screaming hot, around 450 to 500 degrees, before your patties make contact. This gives you that coveted sear and keeps the juices locked inside. And whatever you do, do not press down on the patty while it cooks. That move squeezes out all the flavor you worked so hard to build. For a perfect melt, add your cheese in the last minute of cooking and cover the grill briefly to let the steam do the work. American cheese melts beautifully, but a sharp cheddar or pepper jack will never let you down.
A better bun
The bun is not an afterthought, and even the most seasoned grill master knows this. We love Martin's Potato Rolls, the same ones used at Shake Shack. Soft, slightly sweet and sturdy enough to hold everything together, they elevate the entire experience. Try toasting them butter-side down until golden.
The board build
Here is where it gets really fun. Arrange your patties alongside a loaded spread of toppings and let everyone build their own. A few combinations worth putting on your radar:
The Hawaiian — grilled pineapple, teriyaki glaze, creamy mayo, Havarti cheese and crispy bacon.
The Spicy Cowboy — homemade jalapeño poppers, pepper jack, crispy onion strings and chipotle mayo. The poppers alongside the burger take this one to another level entirely.
Bacon and Bleu — crumbled bleu cheese, candied bacon, arugula and a drizzle of balsamic.
The PB&J — peanut butter, pepper jam and crispy bacon.
Round out the board with pickles, various sauces, sliced tomatoes and a few specialty sides (scratch-made mac n’ cheese anyone?). Add cold drinks, good company and the willingness to get a little messy.
The burger board is many things: a conversation starter, a crowd pleaser and proof that the best meals are the ones you build yourself.
The burger board takes everything you love about a classic cookout and turns it into a spread worthy of a standing ovation.