It’s a Burger Topping Bonanza! Let’s check out the Best Hamburger Toppings: Level up your burger game with the ultimate topping guide! We’ve got all the classics you crave, along with some creative options to tantalize your taste buds. From juicy tomatoes and melty cheese to crispy bacon and gourmet delights, this guide is your one-stop shop for burger topping inspiration.
Get ready to drool and discover your perfect burger combination!
Best Hamburger Toppings – Classic Toppers:
- Lettuce: Crisp iceberg lettuce adds a refreshing crunch and coolness to balance the richness of the burger.
- Tomato: A juicy tomato slice adds a touch of sweetness and acidity, complementing the savory flavors of the patty.
- Onion: Thinly sliced white, red, or sweet onion adds a bit of bite and pungency.
- Pickles: Dill pickles or sweet pickles add a tangy and slightly sour flavor that cuts through the richness.
- Cheese: American cheese is a classic choice, but other options like cheddar, Swiss, pepper jack, or blue cheese offer variety. (see our section on the Best Cheeses for Burgers)
- Ketchup and Mustard: The quintessential burger condiments, offering contrasting sweet and tangy flavors.
- Mayonnaise: Adds creaminess and richness, and can be used as a base for other sauces.
Best Hamburger Toppings– Beyond the Basics:
- Bacon: Crispy bacon adds a salty, smoky flavor and a delightful textural contrast.
- Avocado: Sliced avocado adds a creamy richness and healthy fats.
- Mushrooms: Sauteed mushrooms offer an earthy umami flavor.
- Caramelized Onions: Sweet and savory caramelized onions elevate the burger with complex flavors.
- Jalapeños: Sliced or pickled jalapeños add a spicy kick.
- Pineapple: Grilled pineapple adds a touch of sweetness and tropical flair. This is a more controversial topping, so choose based on your preference.
- Fresh Herbs: Chopped fresh herbs like parsley, cilantro, or basil add a burst of freshness.
Best Hamburger Toppings – Gourmet Touches:
- Aioli: Creamy, delicious aioli in a variety of flavors will kick your burger up a notch.
- Cheese Curds: Melty cheese curds add a delightful squeaky texture and tangy flavor.
- Fried Eggs: A runny yolk adds richness and creaminess, and pairs well with savory toppings like bacon.
- Arugula: Arugula’s peppery bite adds a sophisticated touch.
- Truffle Oil: A drizzle of truffle oil adds a touch of luxury and earthy aroma.
The Best Cheeses for Burgers
Choosing the best cheese for your burger depends on your flavor preference and the overall burger profile you’re aiming for. Here’s a breakdown of some popular options:
Classic Choices:
- American Cheese: The melty champion, American cheese delivers a creamy, mild flavor that blends seamlessly with other burger ingredients. It’s the nostalgic choice for a reason!
- Cheddar Cheese: A crowd-pleaser, cheddar offers a range of flavors depending on age. Younger cheddar is milder and creamier, while aged cheddar provides a sharper bite. Perfect for those who enjoy a bit of tang with their burger.
Flavorful Options:
- Swiss Cheese: Melts beautifully and offers a slightly nutty flavor that pairs well with savory elements like bacon or caramelized onions.
- Pepper Jack Cheese: For those who like a kick, pepper jack adds a spicy punch that complements richer toppings like avocado or grilled onions.
- Blue Cheese: A bold choice for adventurous palates. Blue cheese crumbles offer a sharp, tangy flavor that cuts through the richness of the burger. Often used in combination with other cheeses for a more balanced taste.
Gourmet Picks:
- Brie Cheese: Not your typical burger cheese, but brie adds a decadent touch with its creamy texture and mild, buttery flavor.
- Gouda Cheese: Smoked gouda offers a unique depth of flavor that pairs well with barbecue sauce or smoky bacon. Regular gouda provides a nutty and slightly sweet taste.
Choosing Your Perfect Cheese:
- Consider the Burger’s Overall Flavor Profile: If your burger is already loaded with bold flavors, a milder cheese like American or Monterey Jack might be a better choice. For a more sophisticated burger, explore options like brie or gouda.
- Think About Textures: Do you want a melty cheese that oozes all over your burger, or a cheese with a bit more structure? American and cheddar are classic melters, while blue cheese crumbles offer a different textural experience.
- Experiment and Have Fun!: The best way to find your perfect cheese is to try different options and see what you like best. There’s no single “correct” answer, so get creative and enjoy the exploration!
Remember: The best burger toppings are the ones you enjoy most! Experiment with different combinations to find your perfect burger.
More of the Best
See our other best guides for toppings in this series:
