This Easy Irish Pub Burger is juicy and full of flavor, perfect for a cozy meal! With a mix of beef and tasty seasonings, it’s topped with cheese, crispy bacon, and all the trimmings.
These burgers always make me feel warm inside, just like a good hug! I love serving them with crispy fries or a big side salad. They’re a sure hit for any gathering! 🍔❤️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: Go for an 80/20 blend. The fat adds juice and flavor. If you’re looking for a leaner option, 90/10 will work, but the burger might be less juicy.
Bacon: Crispy bacon is perfect for adding that smoky flavor. You can swap it with turkey bacon or omit it for a vegetarian version, using avocado or extra mushroom instead.
Onions: Yellow onions are best for caramelizing due to their sweetness. Red or shallots can also work, but they will give slightly different flavors.
Cheddar Cheese: I love sharp cheddar for its rich taste. If you’re feeling adventurous, try blue cheese or a smoky gouda as a twist!
Burger Buns: Brioche adds a buttery richness. If you can’t find brioche, potato buns or whole wheat buns make great alternatives. Gluten-free buns work too if you need a gluten-free option.
How Do I Caramelize Onions Perfectly?
Caramelizing onions can enhance your burger like nothing else! To get it just right, patience is key. Start with medium heat to soften them before increasing to create that golden-brown color.
- Heat a skillet over medium heat and add oil or butter.
- Add thinly sliced onions and cook, stirring occasionally, for about 10-15 minutes.
- Lower the heat if they start to burn; the color should progress from translucent to golden brown.
- Add a pinch of salt to help draw out the moisture and promote sweetness.
Enjoy those beautifully caramelized onions on your burger!
Easy Irish Pub Burger
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Burger:
- 1 lb ground beef (preferably 80/20 for juiciness)
- 4 slices bacon
- 1 large onion, thinly sliced
- 4 slices cheddar cheese
- 4 brioche or potato burger buns
For the Sauce:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tbsp whole grain mustard
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For Cooking:
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil or butter (for cooking onions)
- Optional: lettuce, tomato slices, pickles for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 30 minutes from start to finish. You’ll spend around 10 minutes prepping and cooking the bacon, onions, and patties. Then, just a few minutes to assemble and enjoy this delicious burger!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
First, preheat your grill or a skillet to medium-high heat. This ensures everything cooks evenly. While it heats up, season the ground beef in a bowl with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Form the mixture into 4 equal-sized burger patties to ensure a nice, even cook.
2. Cook the Bacon:
In a skillet, cook the bacon over medium heat until it’s crispy. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Once done, remove the bacon and place it on paper towels to drain the excess fat. Don’t clean the skillet; we’ll still use that tasty bacon grease.
3. Caramelize the Onions:
In the same skillet with bacon grease, add 1 tbsp of oil or butter and throw in the thinly sliced onions. Sauté them over medium heat, stirring occasionally, for about 10-15 minutes until they are caramelized and golden brown. This will give your burger layers of delicious flavor—set them aside after cooking.
4. Grill the Patties:
Now it’s time for the star of the show! Place the burger patties on the grill or in the skillet and cook them for about 4-5 minutes on each side for medium doneness. If you prefer your burgers less or more cooked, adjust the time accordingly. In the last minute of cooking, add a slice of cheddar cheese on top of each patty so it can melt nicely.
5. Toast the Buns:
While the patties are cooking, you can toast the burger buns on the grill or in a toaster until they are golden brown. This adds a nice crunch and keeps them from getting soggy.
6. Make the Sauce:
In a small bowl, mix the mayonnaise, mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and a pinch of salt and pepper to create a tangy sauce. This will be the perfect complement to your burger.
7. Assemble Your Burger:
On the bottom half of each toasted bun, spread a generous amount of your homemade sauce. Top it with a melted cheese patty, followed by crispy bacon slices, and caramelized onions. If you like, add lettuce, tomato slices, or pickles for extra crunch and flavor. Finish off with the other half of the bun.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your delicious Easy Irish Pub Burger immediately with your favorite sides, like crispy fries or a fresh salad. Enjoy the cozy flavors and the satisfaction of creating this fantastic meal!
Bon Appétit and enjoy your cozy meal experience!
FAQ for Easy Irish Pub Burger Recipe
Can I Use Leaner Ground Beef?
Yes, you can use leaner ground beef like 90/10, but keep in mind that the burger may be less juicy. For the best flavor and texture, 80/20 is recommended.
What Can I Use Instead of Bacon?
If you want a bacon alternative, crispy turkey bacon or even tempeh bacon can work well. You can also skip the bacon altogether and pile on extra veggies or avocado for a vegetarian option!
How Do I Store Leftover Burgers?
Store leftover burgers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave until warmed through. If you have leftover sauce, keep it separately to maintain freshness!
Can I Make the Patties Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can shape the burger patties ahead of time and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before cooking. Just remember to bring them to room temperature for about 15 minutes before grilling for even cooking!
