These easy garlic burgers are packed with flavor and topped with a creamy garlic sauce that just makes everything better. Juicy beef meets a garlic kick for a tasty meal!
Who doesn’t love a good burger? I enjoy these with extra sauce because, well, garlic is life! They’re quick to make, perfect for grilling with friends, or just for a cozy night in.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I recommend using an 80/20 blend for juiciness. If you’re looking for a lighter option, ground turkey or chicken can work, but they may turn out drier. Just add extra moisture with a bit of olive oil or an egg.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is key for that strong flavor. If you don’t have fresh garlic, garlic powder works in a pinch. Use 1/8 teaspoon for each clove. Also, you can roast the garlic for a milder, sweeter flavor.
Burger Buns: I love soft, classic burger buns, but you could also use whole wheat buns for more fiber or even lettuce wraps for a low-carb option.
Mayonnaise & Sour Cream: If you want a healthier sauce, Greek yogurt is a great substitute. You can mix regular and Greek yogurt for creaminess. If dairy-free is your goal, look for vegan mayo and yogurt alternatives.
What’s the Best Way to Shape Perfect Burger Patties?
Shaping burger patties might seem simple, but there’s a trick to making them cook evenly. Here’s how:
- Gently mix the meat with seasonings—don’t overmix, as this can make them tough.
- Divide the mixture into equal portions. I find a kitchen scale helpful for accuracy.
- Shape each portion into a patty slightly larger than your bun. Remember they’ll shrink while cooking!
- Make a slight indent in the center of each patty using your thumb. This keeps them flat as they cook.
By following these tips, you’ll end up with great burgers that cook evenly and stay juicy!
Easy Garlic Burgers with Creamy Garlic Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Garlic Burgers:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef (80/20 blend for juiciness)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp Worcestershire sauce (optional)
- 4 burger buns (soft, classic style)
For the Creamy Garlic Sauce:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
- 2 cloves garlic, finely minced or grated
- 1 tsp lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
- 1/2 tsp dried parsley (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This tasty garlic burger recipe will take you about 10 minutes to prepare and 10-15 minutes to cook. So you can have delicious burgers ready in about 25-30 minutes—perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Burger Patties:
In a mixing bowl, combine the ground beef with minced garlic, salt, black pepper, onion powder, and Worcestershire sauce, if you’re using it. Mix gently with your hands until everything is just combined—be careful not to overwork the meat! Divide the mixture into 4 equal portions and shape each portion into a patty that’s slightly larger than the buns; they will shrink a little while cooking.
2. Make the Creamy Garlic Sauce:
In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream (or Greek yogurt), minced garlic, lemon juice, and dried parsley. Taste the sauce and season it with salt and pepper as needed. Cover the bowl and pop it in the fridge until you’re ready to use it. This will let all those flavors mix and get even better!
3. Cook the Burgers:
Heat up your grill, grill pan, or skillet over medium-high heat. Once it’s hot, carefully place the burger patties on the cooking surface. Cook them for about 4-5 minutes on one side. Flip the patties and cook for another 4-5 minutes, or until they’re cooked to your desired level of doneness. If you want toasted buns, throw them on the grill or pan for the last minute before you’re done cooking the burgers.
4. Assemble the Burgers:
Once the patties are cooked, take the bottom half of each bun and place a burger patty on it. Spoon a generous amount of the creamy garlic sauce over each patty. Top it off with the other half of the bun. You can also add lettuce, tomato, or any other toppings you love!
5. Serve:
Enjoy your burgers right away with your favorite sides—whether that’s crisp fries, a fresh salad, or some grilled veggies. Dig in and savor every delicious bite of your juicy garlic burger with creamy garlic sauce!
FAQ about Easy Garlic Burgers with Creamy Garlic Sauce
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be used for a lighter option. Just keep in mind that they can be dryer, so consider adding a splash of olive oil or an egg to the mixture to help keep them moist.
What Can I Substitute for the Creamy Sauce?
If you’re looking for a lighter or dairy-free option, you can use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream and vegan mayo instead of regular mayonnaise. For a zesty flavor, try adding a dash of hot sauce!
How Do I Store Leftover Burgers?
Store any leftover burgers and sauce in separate airtight containers in the fridge. They should be good for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm the patties in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave until heated through.
Can I Make the Sauce Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the creamy garlic sauce a day in advance! Just store it in the fridge until you’re ready to assemble your burgers. This also allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.
