These easy garlic burgers are packed with flavor and topped with a creamy sauce that will make your taste buds dance! Juicy beef patties and the rich sauce are a perfect match.
The best part? You can whip these up in no time for a quick dinner. I love serving them with crispy fries, and I might even sneak an extra dollop of that sauce on top! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: Using 80% lean beef gives you a juicy burger. You can replace it with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option, but expect a dryer burger. Adding a bit of olive oil can help keep them moist.
Buns: Brioche buns are my favorite for their slight sweetness and softness. However, feel free to use whole wheat, gluten-free, or any soft sandwich buns you prefer.
Cheese: I usually go for mozzarella or provolone as they melt beautifully. If you’re dairy-free, try vegan cheese or simply skip it altogether. The burger will still be delicious!
Sour Cream: Greek yogurt is a great substitute for sour cream if you want to cut a few calories. If you like some tang, add a splash of vinegar or a bit more lemon juice to either option.
How Do You Make Perfectly Juicy Burger Patties?
Creating a juicy burger is all about the mixing and cooking technique. Start by not overmixing the ground beef; this can lead to a tough texture. Handle the meat gently when forming patties.
- Shape your patties about 3/4 inch thick and slightly larger than the bun.
- Cook on medium-high heat for 4-5 minutes before flipping. Allow the burger to develop a good crust.
- If you’re using cheese, place it on top right after you flip the burger. This helps it melt nicely!
Don’t press down on the burger while cooking; this lets all the juices escape. Cooking on medium heat can help keep them juicy, so watch your temperature!
Easy Garlic Burgers With Creamy Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Burgers:
- 1 lb (450 g) ground beef (80% lean)
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder or 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 burger buns, preferably brioche or soft sandwich buns
- 4 slices of cheese (optional, such as mozzarella or provolone)
For the Creamy Garlic Sauce:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
- 2 cloves garlic, minced or grated
- 1 tsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp dried parsley or fresh chopped parsley
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: 1 tsp Dijon mustard or a dash of hot sauce for a little zing
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and another 15 minutes to cook. In just half an hour, you’ll have delicious, homemade garlic burgers ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Creamy Garlic Sauce:
Start by mixing the mayonnaise, sour cream, minced garlic, lemon juice, parsley, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. If you want a bit of a kick, add Dijon mustard or hot sauce. Put the mixture in the refrigerator to chill while you work on the burgers.
2. Make the Burger Patties:
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef with salt, pepper, and garlic powder (or minced garlic). Mix everything gently so you don’t overwork the meat. Then, divide the mixture into 4 equal portions and shape each one into a patty about 3/4 inch thick. Make them slightly larger than the buns since they will shrink while cooking.
3. Cook the Patties:
Heat a skillet or grill over medium-high heat. Place the patties on the grill and cook for about 4-5 minutes without moving them so they get a nice sear. Flip them over and if you like cheese, now’s the time to place a slice on each one. Cook for another 3-4 minutes or until the cheese is melted and the burgers are cooked through.
4. Toast the Buns:
While the burgers are cooking, toast the burger buns in the same skillet or a toaster until they’re golden and slightly crisp. This adds a nice crunch and helps prevent them from getting soggy.
5. Assemble the Burgers:
Spoon a generous amount of the creamy garlic sauce on the bottom of each toasted bun. Place the cooked patty on top and add more sauce if you like. Finish with the top bun.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your juicy garlic burgers immediately, alongside your favorite sides like fries, a salad, or pickles. Enjoy every bite of your flavorful creation!
Happy cooking!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Ground Turkey or Chicken Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be used for a leaner alternative. Just keep in mind that these options tend to be drier, so consider adding a little olive oil or adjusting the cooking time to keep them moist.
How Do I Make the Creamy Sauce Dairy-Free?
No problem! Substitute the mayonnaise and sour cream with dairy-free alternatives, like vegan mayonnaise and cashew cream or coconut yogurt. This way, you’ll still have a creamy sauce without the dairy!
Can I Prepare the Burgers in Advance?
Yes! You can shape the burger patties ahead of time and store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours or freeze them for longer storage. Just add a few extra minutes to your cooking time if they’re starting from frozen.
What Are Some Good Toppings to Add to My Garlic Burgers?
Feel free to get creative! Some popular toppings include lettuce, tomato, pickles, sautéed onions, or avocado. You could even add some crispy bacon for extra flavor! The creamy garlic sauce pairs well with almost anything.
