How to Make the Perfect Burger

92% of Americans like burgers. It’s one of those foods that’s a pretty safe choice to serve up to people, as there are so few people who dislike them.

However, what exactly distinguishes a good burger from a great one? Burgers can be very diverse, so make sure you put a lot of thought into yours.

Here’s how to make the perfect burger.

The Size

Consider the size of your burgers before serving them. For example, the best burger at a large party may actually be a slider so look up the difference when it comes to sliders vs burgers!

For a small dinner party or date, a larger burger is probably ideal.

The Patty

If cooking a beef burger, make sure you use a high-quality patty in your burger recipe. The meat is what makes the burger great, so cook it to perfection.

It’s a good idea to ask whoever you’re serving it to how they like their meat.

You could also consider using a plant-based patty. Impossible and Beyond Meat both make incredible patties that are 100% plant-based, or you could get adventurous and make your own from ingredients like black beans and quinoa for a healthier option.

The Bun

Don’t buy the cheapest buns from the grocery store and call it done. Try not to pick a super dominating bun (like a pretzel bun) but choose something soft and complimentary.

If you want to go fancy, burgers on brioche buns taste incredible.

The Cheese

Pick your cheese carefully and in combination with the other ingredients. For a classic tang, go for aged cheddar or American, but you could also consider being a little out there.

This will really depend on the person you’re cooking for, whether that’s yourself or someone else. Got someone who loves spice on your hands? Why not look for a Ghost Pepper-infused cheese to really impress them?

If they do eat plant-based, there are also some incredible cheese-free options. Check out Parmela’s Creamery’s American cheese imitation!

Other Toppings

If you’ve got someone a little fussy on your hands, your burger recipe should be pretty basic. Tomato, lettuce, and you’re done — or leave them off for something super plain if your intended recipient is a child or just really fussy!

If you’ve got someone who likes to be a bit adventurous, you can go far in making the perfect burger. Consider all of these possible toppings:

An onion ring
Guacamole
Pickles
Crispy onions
Mushrooms
Peanut butter (yes, really!)

Sauce

People have strong opinions on the sauce so while you might have an idea of what it takes to make the best burger, it might be best to offer up some sauces and let the other person serve themselves.

Ketchup, mustard, and BBQ sauce are all safe offerings.