Grilled BBQ Burger

A Grilled BBQ Burger is the ultimate backyard favorite, delivering juicy, flame-kissed beef patties brushed with bold barbecue sauce and loaded with classic toppings. Perfect for summer cookouts, weeknight dinners, or any time you crave a smoky, saucy bite, this burger is a surefire crowd-pleaser.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Smoky and Juicy: Grilled to perfection, the patties stay tender inside with delicious char marks on the outside.
• Bold BBQ Flavor: Brushed with barbecue sauce for a sweet and tangy punch.
• Customizable Toppings: Easy to adapt with your favorite cheeses, veggies, and buns.
• Perfect for Gatherings: Ideal for family cookouts, game days, or casual get-togethers.
• Quick and Easy: Simple ingredients and fast prep make it an effortless yet satisfying meal.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1½ pounds ground beef (80/20 for best flavor and juiciness)
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
• ½ cup BBQ sauce (plus extra for brushing)
• 4 burger buns, toasted
• 4 slices cheddar or pepper jack cheese (optional)
• Toppings: lettuce, tomato slices, pickles, red onion, mayonnaise, and mustard

Directions

this recipe

1. Preheat Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high heat (about 400°F/200°C).
2. Form Patties: In a large bowl, gently combine ground beef with salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and ¼ cup BBQ sauce. Form into 4 equal-sized patties, pressing a small indentation in the center of each to prevent puffing.
3. Grill Patties: Place patties on the grill and cook for about 4–5 minutes per side, or until they reach your desired doneness.
4. Add Sauce and Cheese: In the last 1–2 minutes of grilling, brush each patty with remaining BBQ sauce and top with a slice of cheese if using. Close the grill lid to melt the cheese.
5. Toast Buns: While patties finish, place buns cut-side down on the grill for 30–60 seconds until lightly toasted.
6. Assemble Burgers: Layer each bun with lettuce, tomato, burger patty, onions, pickles, and your favorite sauces.
7. Serve: Enjoy hot off the grill with your favorite sides.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4 burgers
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 20 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Kick: Mix chopped jalapeños or hot sauce into the beef mixture.
• Bacon BBQ: Add crispy bacon strips to the burger for extra flavor.
• Stuffed Patty: Place cheese or caramelized onions inside the patty for a gooey center.
• Vegan Option: Use plant-based patties and vegan BBQ sauce.
• Sweet & Savory: Add grilled pineapple slices for a tropical twist.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store cooked patties separately from toppings and buns in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat patties on the stovetop or in the microwave. Toast buns fresh for best texture.
• Freezing: Freeze raw patties with wax paper between them for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before grilling.

FAQs

Can I use a grill pan or skillet instead of an outdoor grill?

Yes, you can cook the patties on a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat.

What’s the best beef for juicy burgers?

An 80/20 ground beef blend gives the best flavor and juiciness.

Can I make these burgers ahead of time?

Yes, form the patties and store them in the fridge (covered) for up to 24 hours before grilling.

What type of BBQ sauce works best?

Use your favorite BBQ sauce—smoky, spicy, or sweet depending on your preference.

How do I keep burgers from puffing up?

Press a shallow indentation in the center of each patty before grilling.

Can I add breadcrumbs or egg to the mixture?

You can, but it’s not necessary unless you want a firmer, meatloaf-style texture.

How do I know when the burgers are done?

Use a meat thermometer—160°F (71°C) is the safe internal temperature for ground beef.

What cheese goes well with BBQ burgers?

Cheddar, pepper jack, smoked gouda, or blue cheese work great.

Can I grill frozen patties?

Yes, but add extra cook time and flip more frequently to prevent burning.

What sides pair well with BBQ burgers?

Try coleslaw, potato wedges, baked beans, grilled corn, or a crisp salad.

Conclusion

Grilled BBQ Burgers are a backyard staple that never goes out of style. With their smoky, juicy beef patties and bold barbecue flavor, they’re a guaranteed hit for any occasion. Simple to make and endlessly customizable, this recipe is a must-have for your grilling rotation.

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