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Flavorful End of Summer BBQ Burger Bar Easy Ideas for a Crowd

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A laid-back, interactive BBQ burger bar perfect for any size gathering, featuring smoky seasoned beef patties and a variety of fresh and bold toppings for everyone to customize their own burger.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 lbs ground beef (80/20 for juiciness)
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 12 soft burger buns (brioche recommended)
  • Butter, softened, for toasting buns
  • Leafy lettuce (romaine or green leaf)
  • Juicy tomato slices
  • Thinly sliced red onions
  • Pickles (dill or bread-and-butter)
  • Sharp cheddar cheese slices
  • Smoked gouda or pepper jack slices
  • Grilled pineapple rings
  • Crispy bacon strips (optional)
  • Avocado slices or guacamole
  • Spicy chipotle mayo or classic ketchup and mustard

Instructions

  1. Mix the Patties (10 minutes): In a large bowl, combine ground beef with smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Gently mix until just combined without overworking the meat.
  2. Shape the Patties (5 minutes): Divide mixture into 12 equal portions (about 6 ounces each). Shape each into a patty about ¾ inch thick, pressing a small dimple in the center.
  3. Prep the Toppings (15 minutes): Slice tomatoes, onions, avocado, and cheese. Arrange toppings on serving trays.
  4. Toast the Buns (5 minutes): Lightly butter the insides and toast on grill or pan until golden brown.
  5. Grill the Patties (10-15 minutes): Heat grill or pan to medium-high. Cook patties 4-5 minutes per side for medium doneness (internal temp 160°F). Add cheese slices during last minute to melt.
  6. Assemble the Burger Bar (5 minutes): Transfer patties to platter, cover loosely with foil to keep warm. Set out buns and toppings buffet-style for guests to build their own burgers.

Notes

Do not overwork the meat to keep patties juicy. Press a dimple in the center of each patty to prevent puffing. Toast buns to avoid sogginess. Keep a spray bottle of water handy for grill flare-ups. Prep toppings a day ahead if desired. For gluten-free, use gluten-free buns or leafy greens as wraps. For dairy-free, omit cheese or use plant-based alternatives.

Nutrition

Keywords: BBQ burger bar, summer burgers, crowd-friendly recipe, grilled burgers, customizable burgers, easy BBQ ideas

Find it online: https://junomeals.com/flavorful-end-of-summer-bbq-burger-bar-easy-ideas-for-a-crowd/